General News
22 August, 2025
Marchment to conquer Kokoda Track
Warracknabeal's Dianne Marchment will be beginning a trek of a lifetime this week to raise much-needed awareness and funds for men's mental health in Papua New Guinea.
Kokoda Centurions, a joint initiative with The Man Cave and Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation, aims to empower men to lead healthier and more connected lives and create supportive mentor networks and role models for future generations.
Statistics state that men aged 18 to 44 are the most at-risk group for suicide and account for 75 per cent of all lives lost.
Ms Marchment's son, Lindsay, who is involved with The Man Cave, encouraged her to come along for the ride.
"I'm really looking forward to it, but I'm also nervous," she said.
"I walk for exercise, I'm not a hiker or trekker.
"It might start something new."
Across eight days, the team of 100 people will learn and take in the history that surrounds them, while trekking for almost eight hours each day.
To prepare for the adventure, Ms Marchment said most days she gets up at 5am, where she then walks between five and eight kilometres.
Due to the general flat terrain around town, she has been a regular visitor to the Anzac Park grandstand and now has her own set built at home.
"I've also done Mount Arapiles and MacKenzie Falls," she said.
Ms Marchment said she is preparing herself for the sudden climate change.
"I've been out training in the cold, and there it's going to be humid," she said.
Today, Ms Marchment and her team travelled to Papua New Guinea from Brisbane, where they will be greeted by their tour guide and taken to their accommodation.
"Everyone has been touched by mental health at some stage in their life," she said.
"It's about being aware and helping, and asking 'are you okay?'. That's the message."
Kokoda Centurions have already raised more than $130,000, exceeding their goal of $100,000.
To donate, visit https://kokodacenturions.raiselysite.com/donate.