Each year, Ormeau Woods SHS offers students in Years 7–12 the opportunity to participate in the Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge - an experience that has become an important part of our student leadership and personal development programs.
The Kokoda Challenge encourages students to step outside their comfort zones while building resilience, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership skills in a real-world environment. Through training, preparation, and participation in the event, students develop confidence, self-belief, and a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting others and working together to achieve shared goals.
Students are encouraged to embrace the values of the Kokoda Spirit, including:
Courage
Endurance
Mateship
Sacrifice
Held annually in July, students participate in teams alongside dedicated Ormeau Woods SHS staff and parent volunteers. Teams can take part in the 30km, 48km, or 96km events.
In the lead-up to the challenge, students complete a structured training and preparation program focused on:
Physical fitness and wellbeing
Leadership development
Teamwork and communication
Goal setting and resilience
The Kokoda Challenge is more than just an endurance event - it is an opportunity for students to grow as leaders, strengthen connections within the school community, and develop skills that extend far beyond the event itself.
For more information please reach out to Mr Dyer or Mr Morrison