ANDREW Taylor has left on the adventure of a lifetime.
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The 17-year-old, year 11 Vincentia High student, is taking part in the RSL and Services Club’s Kokoda Trek Youth Leadership Challenge in Papua New Guinea.
The Nowra RSL Sub-Branch has sponsored Andrew for the Kane’s Kokoda Challenge in honour of Chief Petty Officer Kane Vandenberg who was tragically killed in a training accident.
Kane’s Kokoda Challenge Foundation aims to give young people of the Shoalhaven an opportunity to not only walk the Kokoda Track but also gain life skills.
Although looking forward to the trek, Andrew said it would be a great adventure and challenge.
“I’ve been training for about six months in preparation,” he said.
“I’ve done a lot of work to get ready. I’ve been doing a lot of bike riding, hiking with and without a pack, and doing a lot of gym work.”
The youngster has dropped 24 kilograms in preparation for the nine-day adventure.
“We’ll trek the 96 kilometres of the track over nine days,” he said.
“I believe I will go alright. But it will be tough. A real challenge.
“I’ve watched a few videos to see what to expect and also looked at maps to understand the topography.”
He has also spoken to a few people who have walked the track, gaining advice.
“I’ve done a few hikes but nothing this big,” he said.
“I want to push myself.
“I’m excited, it’s a great opportunity. I hope I can finish.
“I’m hoping I will grow within myself during the trek and also become a better leader.
“It is also a chance to make new friends.”
He said the adventure would also give him a better understanding of the history behind the area and that of the second World War.
“I’m familiar with the history of Kokoda and its significance. This is not just an adventure it will also allow me to have a better appreciation of what Australia’s diggers went through,” he said.
He also paid credit to his mother Sue.
“The family has been very supportive. Mum in particular has pushed me. She has been training with me,” he said.
He will be one of 35 young adults, who range in ages between 17 and 25 who will take part in the trek.
They will be backed by 60 locals.