September 26th 2024.
A group of Australian tourists was recently rescued from a remote jungle in Papua New Guinea after a dispute over the Kokoda Track had forced them to be flown out. The conflict, which has been ongoing for some time now, involves landowners and the government and has resulted in the closure of the historic path.
This track holds great significance for Australians, as it was the site of intense fighting during World War II between Australian soldiers and a Japanese invasion force. Every year, thousands of Australians make the journey to walk this historic track, bringing in valuable tourism dollars for the local economy.
However, tensions have risen in Nauro village in central PNG, where local people have built a barrier from logs along part of the pathway. This action is in response to the government failing to pay millions of dollars in development grants that were promised to the community. As a result, the Kokoda Track Authority has confirmed that the path will remain closed until a resolution is reached.
Tour guide companies have been keeping their clients updated on the situation and advising them to leave the Kokoda Track. Wayne Wetherall, the owner of Kokoda Spirit, had to cancel four treks last week and this week due to the closure. However, he remains hopeful that a resolution will be reached soon and is not canceling any further treks at this time. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is also advising Australians to stay in touch with their tour companies for the latest information.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has been in contact with affected tour companies and is working closely with the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby to support the relevant PNG authorities in finding a solution. In the meantime, an estimated 625 Australian soldiers who lost their lives fighting on the Kokoda Track in 1942 are being honored. The local Papuan people played a crucial role in supporting the Australian troops by carrying the wounded to safety and providing supplies during the treacherous conditions.
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