Lachlan was the first recipient of Kane’s Kokoda Challenge Foundation, established by the Nowra RSL Sub Branch in the memory of his late father, Chief Petty Officer Kane Vandenberg, who was killed while serving his country in 2013.

As the name suggests, successful applicants get to test their mettle by walking the Kokoda Track.

“It was an awesome experience,” he said.

“I found the actual trek easier than what I expected but it certainly made you appreciate what the Diggers actually went through.

“And they [the Diggers] had nothing compared to what we took.

“It definitely changed me.”

Lachlan has since joined the army and is undertaking basic training at Kapooka.

“It was an awesome experience and I would encourage anyone to do it,” he said.

“There were parts that were tough and there were times we were constantly wet but you have to tough it out and keep on going.

“For any young people out there contemplating the challenge I would say go for it.”

He is now aiming at walking the Track again but from the opposite direction.

Applications for this year’s RSL and Services Club’s Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge close next Friday (April 15).

So if you are aged between 17 to 25 and looking for the adventure of a lifetime, why not apply?

Sub-branch secretary Rick Meehan said Kane’s Kokoda Challenge Foundation is aimed at giving young people of the Shoalhaven an opportunity to not only walk the Kokoda Track but also gain life skills.

“The trek allows these individuals to tackle challenges, be part of a team and encourages leadership skills,” he said.

It’s not just open to students, the program is open to anyone.”

The Nowra RSL subsidises the experience for one lucky local.

This year’s trek will take place between September 24 and October 5, the first week of the school holidays.

Local applications close with the Nowra RSL Sub Branch on April 15.

For further information contact Debby on 0413 787858.