Showing grit, determination in Kokoda challenge

ADVERTORIAL

Since 2018, The Lakes College in North Lakes has proudly supported student, staff and parent participation in the Kokoda Challenge, entering teams into one of the most demanding endurance events in Australia.

This year marked our third consecutive entry into the full Kokoda Pinnacle Challenge – a test of grit, resilience and teamwork that stretches across three major events in South East Queensland.

The Pinnacle Challenge includes the Sunshine Coast 30km, Brisbane 48km and finishes with the ultimate test – the Gold Coast 96km Kokoda Challenge.

This year, our two teams – TLC Warriors (Schools Division) and TLC Wanderers (Open Division) – tackled all three events with courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice.

The journey began on May 10 in Kenilworth with the Sunshine Coast 30km Challenge. Despite early enthusiasm and a clean start, our teams were soon covered in mud as steady rain hit the course for four hours. Conditions were tough, but the camaraderie was stronger. After seven hours and 38 minutes, both teams crossed the finish line tired, muddy and proud – cheered on by supportive family and friends. TLC Warriors finished nearly an hour ahead of the next school’s team, launching them into first place in their division.

The second leg – the Brisbane 48km Challenge – took place in June and saw the teams push through steeper terrain, longer hours on foot, and colder temperatures. Again, they demonstrated teamwork, perseverance, and the enduring strength of the TLC community.

The final and toughest leg – the Gold Coast 96km Challenge – was held on the weekend of July 19 and 20. Setting off at 7am on Saturday morning, the team, led by Karen Ball, included three parents, four current students, and one past student. Together, they navigated more than 30 hours of hiking through the unforgiving Gold Coast Hinterland, overcoming fatigue, darkness and rugged terrain to finish on Sunday morning. Their achievement is a testament to their resilience, physical endurance and the support of our community, especially the parents who staffed checkpoints throughout the trek.

The Kokoda Challenge is more than just a physical event – it’s an opportunity to live out the values of Courage, Endurance, Mateship, and Sacrifice, while raising funds for the Kokoda Youth Foundation. This foundation delivers life-changing youth mentoring programs that empower young people to reach their full potential.

Participating in the Kokoda Challenge since 2018 has become a valued tradition at The Lakes College – one that connects students, families, staff and alumni through shared purpose and unforgettable experiences.

We are so proud of our teams, and deeply thankful for the encouragement from our TLC families. Together, we are building strength, spirit and leadership – one step at a time.

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