John is a New Zealander from Christchurch, who went no further than south-east Queensland on his world tour, attracted by the weather, lifestyle and opportunities – and a beautiful Gold Coast girl!

Kellie and John have a “pigeon pair”, Grace, aged 5, the image of her Mum, and Fletcher, three, (after his name as straight as an arrow), independent and with a cheeky grin. Dad’s interests have included scuba diving, rugby and cricket, and he is a frustrated helicopter pilot. (Perhaps, one day!)

John is involved in a franchise business, Mr Rental, providing short and long term rental of appliances, including whitegoods, televisions, computers and furniture at Bundall on the Gold Coast.

During his twenty years in Australia, John has become aware of the significance of Kokoda in the nation’s history – and of the conditions of jungle and terrain, along with the sacrifices, determination and hope. A friend who had completed the ANZAC trek last year inspired the dream of covering the Track, particularly motivating in that it was to be in support of Zoe’s Place.

John has welcomed his introduction to Zoe’s Place. What he has found outstanding is the tremendous dedication and focus of its people, despite its low profile and lack of funding. Here is a sanctuary for families needing time out from the rigours of the full-time, round-the-clock care of a sick child, and for parents needing little things like unbroken sleep, or devoting a little more time to other children in the family.

Zoe’s creates a safe and familiar environment for terminally-ill children, for their parents and siblings. Anyone who has had a sick child knows how stressful this can be. One can only imagine the extra burden placed on the mums, dads, sisters and brothers of those who need constant, loving care. Zoe’s stands out as a beacon.

As we undertake the tough circuit and hill training in preparation for the challenge, it’s great to be part of a team with a great feel, a team which includes Zoe’s Place staff and directors on this, its first sponsored trek.

And it’s great to have sponsors from banks, solicitors, accountants, and, especially, anyone with children. Thank you for that support.