Corporate News

Welcome to the jungle. This is the warm winter message for two dozen trekkers – including Villawood’s Celia Konstas – gearing up to tackle the rugged Kokoda Track next month.

But conquering the sweltering 96km tropical challenge for the kudos of it isn’t the only thing they’re taking on.

The Geelong Youth Engagement expedition, led by former policeman Andy Brittain, and supported by the Villawood Foundation, is really all about overcoming difficulties of a different type.

More than 220 at-risk teens have been dealt a lifeline by GYE’s Kokoda treks over the past 13 years.

For the mentors who’ve huffed and sweated their way alongside them –drawn mainly from Geelong’s business ranks – it’s been a positive, life-changing experience as well.

Right now, Brittain’s crew are making the final preparations for a September assault on the historic Owen Stanley Ranges wartime track.

Says Brittain: “It’s like a reality TV show. You see these lives change right before your eyes, each day.

“And these kids go on to become leaders – cops, nurses, PSOs, physios, tradies.

“We see absolutely stunning turnarounds every trek we run. It’s really life-changing and not just for the kids, for their mentors too. It’s a really unique experience.”

Celia Konstas, one of the mentors joining the September jungle trek, is following the footsteps of three colleagues at Villawood: Rory Costelloe, Andrew Duggan and the erstwhile Mike Treloar.

“Training has been pretty tough but we’re already a well-bonded team,” Celia says.

“I’m looking forward to seeing Kokoda, its villages and historic sites. I’m also excited to see this great crew undertake such a hard challenge. I know they’ll find it memorable and rewarding.”

See more here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaiaP9lVZvc

Also: geelongyouthengagement.org.au/