Changing Lives on the Kokoda Track: The Geelong Youth Program

It's more than just a walk. It's a 12-month journey that completely changes lives.

This video highlights the incredible mission of the Geelong Kokoda Youth Program, run by Geelong Youth Engagement (GYE). The program takes young people from the Geelong region, many facing significant personal challenges like bullying and disengagement from school, and guides them through a year of intense physical training and mentorship.

The journey culminates in the ultimate test of resilience: a 12-day trek along the historic Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea.

In this video, you'll hear from:

Kayla (Student): Hear her powerful story of how the program helped her overcome bullying, dramatically improve her school attendance, and find a new "forever family."

Andy (CEO, Geelong Youth Engagement): Learn about the program's origins and its mission to build resilience by removing participants from social media and everyday pressures.

Natalie (Mentor & Sponsor): Find out why the Community Bank Lara District (Bendigo Bank) proudly sponsors this life-changing initiative and participates as a mentor.

From the demanding training sessions on the Geelong waterfront to the muddy, "relentless hills" of the Kokoda Trail, watch as these young people and their mentors push their limits, connect with history, and discover a strength they never knew they had.

This program receives no government funding and is proudly supported by Geelong Youth Engagement and the Lara District Community Enterprise (Bendigo Bank).