Bryan’s professional background is in human resource management, complemented by twenty-three years in the Army Reserve, as an army psychologist. Present interests include surf life saving, where he is actively involved on the beach, and as an instructor. He was nurtured in an Army environment, being born just two months after the conclusion of the Kokoda campaign, when his father was in transit to Papua and Bougainville after the Middle East; and during WWI, his grandfather had been wounded in action on the Somme.

Bryan’s love of Australian military history, and the challenge of completing the Kokoda Track as an older participant, motivated him to join the Anzac Kokoda trek last year. Those reasons, plus the delight in joining a wonderful group of people trekking in support of Zoe’s Place, has seen him brush off his boots and once again prepare for the Track, this time going from north to south.

“It was on the Track that the legend of Gallipoli was reinforced, again in close contact combat against a numerically-superior enemy”, says Bryan. “Here, we are able to vividly imagine battle conditions, thanks to the efforts of contemporary researchers. This, as well as being led by the Executive Excellence team of leaders and porters, including the sons and grandsons of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels, makes for a deeply meaningful experience, as well as for a profound sense of personal satisfaction”.

The stone pillars at the Isurava Memorial mark “Courage”, “Endurance”, “Mateship” and “Sacrifice” as the eternal traditions demonstrated on the Track. In peace time, and in the quiet solitude of the Track today, they are traditions equally worthy, as, for example, we strive to assist those within our community who may need a hand in support. 

Whilst we are with the Kids of Kokoda, we’ll also be mindful of the Kids at Zoe’s Place, as we cross the Owen Stanleys in the footsteps of great Australians.

We appreciate the support of our sponsors as the team prepares to meet the challenge.