As a Trek Guide, Peter Thatcher relies on his technical, interpersonal and communication skills combined with common sense to successfully lead groups through the rugged terrain and the emotional journey that is the Kokoda Track. Peter is an innovative and reliable Manager, Trainer and Leader who has gained his experience following 39 years in the Australian Army.
Most recently during fulltime Army service Peter managed the Soldier Recovery Centre, Brisbane. He developed and implemented programs to assist with the rehabilitation of wounded, ill and injured soldiers. Peter remains an active Army Reserve Soldier currently managing the Defence Work Experience Program at Gallipoli Barracks Enoggera. A major component of the Program is to educate students about the Kokoda Track.
With his father having served with the RAAF during WWII and seeing action in PNG, Peter has always had a keen interest in the history of the brave soldiers who found themselves on the track and is passionate about getting the message out to others about the importance of those soldiers bravery despite the terrible adversity they faced. Peter firmly believes from those war ravaged days to this day and beyond that the sacrifices those soldiers made on the Kokoda Track should never be forgotten.
Peter’s time on the Track has developed a deep appreciation for those who call PNG and the Track home and he is passionate about assisting young Papuans to be the best they can be.
Peter is qualified in advanced first aid and resuscitation and is an experienced Manager of Emergency Response Operations.
“Kokoda Track; the Experience”
For me, walking and experiencing the “Kokoda Track” is a very important part of being an Australian. The “Kokoda Track” is alive with the constant reminders of the terrible battle that raged along it in 1942. Memorials, monuments, helmets, weapons and other paraphernalia of war lie littered along this simple thoroughfare giving stark testimony to the deeds of that time.
To experience a little of the sacrifice and hardship endured by young Australians on this track in 1942; can inspire you to overcome any adversity you may face in life. Understanding what these few courageous men achieved against overwhelming odds will serve as a constant inspiration for you as you face up to all of life’s twists and turns.
Walking the Kokoda Track is not about the glorification of war, it is all about remembering those brave young boys who stood tall and refused to yield. They sacrificed their youth and for many their lives, so that we would have a better life and future.
I challenge you to walk the Kokoda Track, to take time to remember those brave souls who gave so much. You will come away a better person; I know I did.