The Kokoda Trust
The Kokoda Trust is being formed to honour the legacy of the Australian and PNG soldiers, sailors, airmen, coastwatchers and carriers who served in PNG during the war in the Pacific 1942-1945. This will be achieved through the implementation of a number of programs designed to strengthen the relationship between Australia and PNG and provide on-going benefits in the fields of health, education and leadership.
A provisional Board has met to consider the specific objectives of the trust, as well as its constitution and structure. The Trust is to be established as a Charitable Trust, raising funds through donations from individuals, companies and groups to meet its objectives. In focussing on pragmatic ways to provide a better future for the people of PNG, the Trust will partner with public and private sector organisations and community groups in Australia and PNG as appropriate.
Specific programs under consideration include the awarding of high school and graduate scholarships for PNG students, establishment of sister-school and sister-hospital relationships and the development of a memorial plan for the Kokoda Trail.
The Trust envisages a National Body with Chapters in each State with the opportunity for trekkers to organise their own clans in their own districts.
