Kokoda 70 Years On – Tourism aids community development

Monument at Ower's Corner - Photo courtesy of Kokoda 70.org

Sydney: The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority hosted an event in Sydney on the 29^th  of March to mark the 70^thAnniversary of the Kokoda Campaign. The event opened this year’s anniversary trekking season and highlighted the advancements and community developments that have occurred along the track as a result of the legacy of the Campaign and the special relationship between the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels and the Australian Diggers.

Ruben Maleva, Chairman of the Kokoda Track Authority, reminded Australians of the special bond forged between the countries 70 years ago and encouraged people to trek Kokoda as the tourism revenue is a key contributor to development for the communities in the region.

“Since Australian soldiers left PNG an estimated 30,000 Australians have returned to trek Kokoda and this has made a huge impact to the local communities aiding development with increased education and health services, creating jobs for porters, guides and guesthouse operators and other small businesses.  Many of the local people have built friendships and renewed bonds through tourism development,” Mr Maleva stated.

Recent research has estimated that trekkers bring close to a few million Australian dollars a year to the Kokoda area, over time this will add up to significantly more than other, shorter term industries and a much higher proportion of it finds its way directly to the communities.

Source: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority