THERE'S a difficult journey ahead for BackTrack boys chosen to walk the Kokoda track.
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Brett Orcher and Jordan Kelly joined the youth program when they were just 12, now adults they will take their first steps toward becoming mentors themselves.
BackTrack Youth Works has three jobs, to keep kids alive, out of jail and help them chase their hopes and dreams, founder Bernie Shakeshaft said.
These boys have worked very hard over the years and they are thriving.
- Bernie Shakeshaft
"I can't think of a better history lesson than walking it," he said.
"These boys are still working it out, they're from the school of hard knocks but I'm pretty happy with their development so far.
"It's great for the community to get in behind us yet again to make it possible.
"We are so privileged that Armidale Rotarians, along with the community, have given these boys such an opportunity."
With a team of Armidale community members, Brett and Jordan left for the Kokoda track on Thursday.
The boys will spend three weeks on the trail, a test of their physical and mental boundaries in hot and humid temperatures through tough surroundings.
Known as one of the world's most challenging treks, the Kokoda Track is a 96 kilometre journey that winds through rugged mountainous terrain.
The tourism is brings to Papua New Guinea improves the lives of communities along the trail.
With stops in the local villages both will have the chance to immerse themselves in local culture and make plenty of new memories.
The Armidale Central Rotary was proud to be able to contribute to a life-changing experience for two boys that have done it tough, president Kristyn Barker said.
"We are thrilled that rotary is able to assist in giving these two young men a challenge," she said.
"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn and relive what our military heroes from World War II endured and achieved."
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At least 120,000 men fought or supported the troops during WWII from 1942 to 1943.
On the trip, the boys will spend three nights in Port Moresby and sixteen in local villages along the trek.
They join an average of 3,827 other trekkers who tackle the challenge each year, with the highest point at Mount Bellamy at 2,190m.
A GoFundMe for the boys raised $3,355 to cover travel costs and accommodation on the trip.