Past President Tracy Dance participated in the second annual walk for RAWCS along the Kokoda Trail last month.

Three Rotarians including PDG Bob Sydes and Gordon Hanson both of RC of Central Launceston plus 10 others from across Australia walked from Ower’s Corner to Kokoda from September 14th to 24th.

The purpose of the trek was to recognise the work of Rotary International and to raise money for Rotary Australia World Community Service or RAWCS. It was a highlight for Tracy to be able to see some of the projects Rotary had completed in the region including a Medical Centre and School in Menari and a Hospital in Kokoda.

The sights and sounds of the trail included magnificent mountainous views, beautiful sunsets, colourful wild flowers and butterflies, rushing rivers, creeks and waterfalls, harmonious singing from the porters, not so harmonious singing from the trekkers, bird calls and beautiful smiling faces of the local children.

The trek was strenuous on the body and mind but thankfully everyone in the group got through without any major injuries or illnesses. The group stuck together throughout the whole 9 days with only a few minutes between the leaders and the backbenchers. The friendships that blossomed will last forever.

Tracy would like to thank the club and those individuals who sponsored and supported her for the trek and look forward to sharing her experience with them in the future.

(left to right) PP Tracy Dance, Chris Sydes (brother), PDG Bob Sydes (father) on the Kokoda Trail (Sept 2009)