2016 Sponsors Guide

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Contents34 5 6 - 78 - 910111213 - 14151617-18 1920

OverviewThe ProgramWhy Be Involved? The ExperiencesGuidelines for SponsorsCosts Selection ProcessSelection CriteriaApplication for Selection FormTime LineCongratulations Letter to TrekkerMedia ReleaseFAQsAdditional Information

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Overview

Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge (KYLC)KYLC is a peer group leadership program promoted by the RSL & Services Clubs Association and overseen by the KYLC Benevolent Fund.

The Challenge is aimed at young people at school or disadvantaged or unemployed young people in the community who are having difficulty in finding their way in society. It is also used to encourage young achievers with natural leadership skills.

With more than 300 young men and women now having made the trek since the project commenced in 2005, that represents an investment of more than $2 million by clubs in our country’s youth.

For Clubs, the program has the potential to build stronger ties with the community and local business while increasing their relevance with young people who will be their future members and become the ‘custodians’ of the ANZAC and Kokoda traditions. Any club can join the program regardless of whether you are a member of the RSL & SCA.

The leadership program aims to create a greater awareness of the sacrifices of the Diggers on the Kokoda campaign among our young people to ensure the traditions live on. At the same time, it instills in participants a commitment to community service and enhances their personal development by providing an opportunity for them to experience the same conditions under which our diggers fought. It is a transformational experience encouraging future leadership roles back in the community.

The treks are eligible ClubGrants Category 1 expenditure (in NSW) for clubs sponsoring participants on the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge.

Adventure KokodaAdventure Kokoda is the specialist Kokoda Trek Operator engaged by the RSL & Services Clubs Association to operate the Treks under the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge (KYLC) Program. The Directors and Team Leaders have over 24 years’ experience on the Kokoda Trail. The company was established by Charlie Lynn, a former army major and leading advocate for the Kokoda Trail to be proclaimed as a National Memorial Park. Charlie has trekked Kokoda over 75 times and has mapped the original wartime trail over this period. He also re-discovered many of the battle sites that had been reclaimed by the jungle over the years since the war. These include Brigade Hill, the Isurava battle site, the ‘golden staircase’ on Imita Ridge and the wartime route taken by the 39th Militia Battalion as they marched towards Kokoda to meet the invading Japanese army.

Charlie Lynn served in the Australian Army for 21 years. This included tours of duty in Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia and the United States. He is a graduate of the Army Command and Staff College.

During his time as an exchange instructor with the United States Army he completed their Special Forces Military Freefall program involving tactical High Level Low Opening HALO parachute jumps on oxygen from 20,000 feet with full combat equipment - at night. He was appointed Captain of the Parachute Display Team at Fort Lee in Virginia and completed 200 jumps during his tour of duty.

After leaving the army he worked with Adventure West and the Australian Rural Leadership Program running outback survival programs for mining companies in the Kimberley region of Western Australia and outback New South Wales.

He was elected to the NSW Parliament in 1995 and has held the position of Parliamentary Secretary for Veterans Affairs for the past four years. He retired from Parliament in March 2015.

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The ProgramThe Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge (KYLC) Program is designed for young community leaders, young people with strong family military connections and management staff with leadership potential in the NSW club industry or suppliers to that industry with the view to strengthen their skills and attitudes to the challenges of management.

The program involves an arduous 10 day trek across the original Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea, presentations at significant battle sites and discussions on sacrifice, courage, mateship, endurance and leadership.

The learning outcomes from the program include: • A practical understanding of the theory of leadership within a team environment. • An appreciation of the aspirations and fears of other members of the group. • A practical understanding of the effectiveness of interdependency within a team environment. • A detailed strategic and tactical understanding of the Kokoda campaign. • The limitations of leadership at the political/strategic level. The relationship between Prime Minister Curtin, General Douglas MacArthur and General Thomas Blamey, and the effects of this relationship on the leadership of the battlefield commanders on the Kokoda Trail. • Case studies of leadership and sacrifice at the battles of Brigade Hill, Eora Creek and Isurava. • The culture of the Koiari and Orokaiva people who live along the trail. • An increase in personal fitness, a loss of fat from the body, a hardening of the muscles, a toughening of the attitudes and an improvement in grit and determination!

Adventure Kokoda have a simple approach to personal leadership development. It’s based on the reality of a jungle trail over the Owen Stanley Ranges in Papua New Guinea - not a contrived experiential scenario in a controlled environment. Our leaders have been led by great men and have led great men and women. Veterans are their mentors. PNG guides are their guardian angels. Kokoda is their leadership laboratory.

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Why Be Involved?KYLC places RSL & Services Clubs in a unique position to capture the support of a younger demographic of members who are rekindling their understanding of the Anzac and Kokoda spirit and who are so important to the future of our clubs.

Benefits for SponsorsThe goal is to provide a point of differentiation for RSL & Services Clubs, while at the same time: • A vehicle for opening dialogue with youth who are important to the longer term viability of our clubs; • Brand Building– RSL & Services Clubs would be seen as a guiding force in re-directing our youth; • Gaining a marketing advantage, the program has the potential to encourage young people to join RSL & Services Clubs and develop the future generation of members; • Engaging members on an emotional level by further developing members’ support of the Anzac traditions; • Inspiring current staff to have a greater sense of value in the traditions of the club (and not be just another workplace) and pride in community; • Establishing stronger community ties – engender greater support from community leaders and politicians; • A way of developing, strengthening or repairing relationships with government or community; • Positive public relations with increased media opportunities. Each recruitment and completion of a trek would generate positive media coverage for the club and increase its standing in the eyes of the local community; • Building corporate relationships – the club would have an opportunity to build relationships with companies in the community and encourage their support.

Benefits for ParticipantsParticipants in the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge will gain: • A positive feeling of self-worth and self-confidence • An appreciation of our military history • A respect for the sacrifice made by young Australians of a previous generation • An appreciation of a culture whose values are not based on materialism • A sense of responsibility for the outcomes of the choices they make • An appreciation of the qualities necessary for effective teamwork i.e. loyalty, trust, honesty, courage, leadership, respect, discipline and sacrifice • An understanding of the characteristics of Australian leadership • An appreciation of the 7 essential understandings of effective leadership (self, others, culture, environment, history, present and future) • An understanding of the purpose and value of community service • Traversing the Kokoda Track is still an awesome challenge. Successful completion of the trek will restore self-confidence and provide participants with a strong sense of accomplishment. • They will learn basic navigation skills and bushcraft.

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The Experiences

I can’t thank you enough for what you have given me. You have given me more strength and courage then I have ever had in my life. Thank you for having the belief in me to be a valuable individual who could accomplish this challenge. Your generosity and kind act has brought me an ever-lasting confidence in who I am and what I can achieve in life. Never did I expect to ever be confronted with so much emotion, but it is exactly what my spirit needed to learn and grow.

It saddens me to know that only 1% of Australians take on this empowering journey and most individuals my age will always be naïve to the events that occurred on the Kokoda Track during WWII. I feel that if every Australian fully comprehended the sacrifice that our young soldiers made in protecting our country from invasion and delved into the history and culture of Papua New Guinea, Australian society would change for the better. Learning about the bravery and fortitude of the Australian soldiers, along with the enduring commitment of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels to assist our Diggers, has been a valuable lesson for me. Now, through knowledge of their sacrifice and my experiences whilst walking the Track, I have learnt that life is a beautiful and magical gift; full of surprises and challenges. I hope that more and more Australians undertake this endeavor to discover this and better themselves in light of the stories of battle.

I can’t express my gratitude enough towards the RSL and Services Clubs in providing me with this opportunity. Your generosity and humble act has allowed me to experience a life-changing journey. I will carry those 12 days in my heart forever as I learnt of the bravery and strength the Diggers portrayed to ensure the life we have today. Their actions have allowed me to truly understand the importance of life, the morals and the values we should all cherish as human beings. It would be an honor and a privilege to repay your generosity by providing my services to the Association in any way, to help gain the awareness of Kokoda and the Organization. I would cherish nothing more than to contribute at club commemorative activities and speak on behalf of the Organization about my experience.

I hope one day to be in the position to give back to others what you have given to me. I have leant to live in the moment and that sometimes the things we are searching for are right there in front of us. I will never forget the image of Bomana Cemetery, where 3,280 brave young men lay in sacrifice of our country. Those rows of white marble are a true reflection of what it is to give your all. Whenever I feel the pain of personal suffering, I will think of them and remember their strength. The gratitude I hold for them should be inside every Australians’ heart.

This trek has given me the understanding of what it feels to accomplish something great, given my best effort. I now believe I hold the determination and power to achieve my life’s ambitions. No more will I indulge on the words ‘tomorrow’ or ‘later’, but only take my all into every endeavor I embark on.

Staring into the eyes of Havula Luala, a dear Fuzzy Wuzzy, and witnessing his wholesome spirit radiating in his eyes was one of the most empowering and enlightening moments I could ever experience. Then and there I learnt the respect and appreciation our Diggers and Fuzzy Wuzzies deserve. I now aspire to become a custodian of the legend and carry on the stories of leadership and courage. With the four words courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice, a leader is born. It is inside every one of us, and for those who seek it, will find it, through the wonder of the Kokoda legend. So in the eyes of Bruce Kingsbury, are we as humans, living our lives to the fullest? Are we reaching our hands out to those who need it? Are we striving to create meaningful and passionate lives? To just have this hope and determination in my heart is the most precious gift one can receive.

Please contact me in the future if there is anything I can do to be of service in light of this marvelous program.

Kind Regards,Ashley - 2013 Trekker

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The Experiences

“The leadership aspect was a major highlight for me. I learnt that I don’t necessarily need to be in a management position to invoke change and improve efficiencies. I learnt that acts of leadership don’t have to be huge, nor do they necessarily need to be recognised, but if they instill the right kind of change, the one that makes a difference or results in improvement then that’s what truly matters. I really learnt the value of support and asking for help (even when I really didn’t want to) and the successes that I achieved by leaving my ego behind. ”Sarah - 2014 Trekker

“They say trying to describe the Kokoda trek is like trying to describe a rose. No matter what and how many words I use they never seem to suffice. The only way you can fully appreciate the stories and lessons of life that the Kokoda trek has to offer is to undertake the trek yourself. “If you want a physical challenge, run a marathon. The Kokoda trek is so much more than just a 10 day walk through the jungle”.Rachel - 2015 Trekker

“The track has been a source of inspiration, motivation, adventure and reassurance. I feel like a change of energy has occurred within me. I have a clearer vision of what I’d like to accomplish and of the path to achieve my goals. I have full faith in myself. I can and I will!”Daisy - 2014 Trekker

There were so many memorable sites and moments along the trail that I will never forget. It has reinvigorated the respect I have for the diggers that have and are currently serving for Australia. The four words Mateship, Courage, Endurance and Sacrifice could not have been chosen better for their meaning, and you appreciate them more after completing the trek.

I still can’t believe I have completed the Kokoda Trail but I am so grateful I did. I certainly have got more out of it than I ever thought I would! Those close to me have noticed that I have changed slightly and I think they’re right. I am embracing life more than ever, I rise to a challenge to wake up every morning knowing that today is going to be a good day. We have so much in our lives that we forget we have so much to offer, so I hope that I can make that change in my community and show others to appreciate what you have. I am truly grateful for the opportunity and can’t thank enough to everyone involved.Laura - 2015 Trekker

The feeling of exhilaration when I stepped through that Kokoda arch at the end more than made up for any hiccups I encountered along the way. It was humbling to realise that what I experienced was only a taste of what the ANZACs had to go through to protect our country and its future. To be counted among those who have been able to recapture a small slice of history and emulate what the ANZACs did is an honour and a privilege.Mariel - 2014 Trekker

“I don’t think anybody could claim that it’s not an exercise in personal leadership. But what this week has certainly been about is personal development and challenging people personally.”Lachlan - 2015 Trekker

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Guidelines for SponsorsInitial Information About Each TrekkerAs soon as you have selected the trekker(s) that you are sponsoring, please send a copy of the original Application Form for each trekker by email to RSL & Services Clubs Association (RSL & SCA) office (admin@rslservicesclubs.com.au). The information will be collated onto a database for submission to Adventure Kokoda so that they are all registered immediately for their trek with the company. This means that the trekkers will not be required to individually register online with Adventure Kokoda.

Please make sure it is clear on the form which trek the person is joining: TREK #1 or TREK #2.

Once you have sent through this information, you will be sent a KYLC Administration Kit. This kit contains all the forms your trekker must complete to attend the trek. You will need to contact your trekker and pass this information on.

Attendance at Trek Workshop – Saturday 14th May 2016All nominated trekkers and a representative of the sponsor MUST attend the 2016 KYLC Trekkers Workshop at 12.00 noon – 4.00pm on Saturday 14th May 2016, Petersham RSL Club, 7 Regent Street, Petersham.

If the trekker is under 18 years old, a parent or guardian is also required to attend. Any parent is welcome to attend, but those under 18 MUST be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian.

Please make sure each trekker brings their KYLC Administration Kit with them to the Workshop, all the required forms and applications, contained in the KYLC Administration Kit, i.e., Medical Clearance, Travel Insurance and PNG Visas, etc. will be explained in detail.

The physical training and preparation, the clothing & supplies to be taken and the gifts and financial requirements will be also be fully outlined and discussed.

Completion Of All PaperworkEach sponsor will receive a KYLC Administration Kit containing forms that are required to be completed by each trekker.

It is the responsibility of each sponsor club/association to work with their nominated trekker(s) to complete the forms in the KYLC Administration Kit and return them to you in sufficient time, to ensure that they reach the RSL & SCA office by the due date.

Failure to submit the paperwork completed correctly by the due date could result in the Trekker not being able to participate.

The KYLC Administration Kit contains the following forms and a checklist: 1. Application Form 2. Personal Particulars & Medical Self-Assessment 3. Personal Biography 4. Deed of Release 5. Medical Clearance 6. Consent Form for Publication of Trekkers’ Work and Photographs 7. Visa Application 8. Supplementary Health Form 11. Covermore Insurance Application

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Guidelines for SponsorsIn addition to this, the trekker’s passport and a colour copy of the main page of their passport must be returned to the RSL & SCA office to obtain their visa.

The trekker will also require a current Australian Passport, with at least six months remaining before expiry from the date of their departure (e.g. If departing on 1st August 2016, the passport must not expire before end of February 2017). If they do not hold a current Passport, they need to make application IMMEDIATELY, as soon as they have been selected by the sponsor, at the local Post Office. This passport will also need to be sent to RSL & SCA.

Returning KYLC Administration Kit & Passport to the RSL & SCA OfficeEach Sponsor is responsible to collect all the completed forms by their nominated trekkers, check them thoroughly to ensure all the information has been completed and signed where required (particularly where parent/guardian is required, for under 18), and submit the complete set to RSL & SCA before the due date. As original signed forms and passport is required for travel, the completed forms need to be posted. Please send all forms and passport(s) in a Registered Post Envelope (for security reasons) to RSL & SCA, you should also include a self-addressed Registered Post envelope so we are able to return the trekker’s passport(s) to you, once they Visa has been approved. Please make a copy of everything for your own records before posting the originals.

The following needs to be returned to RSL & SCA office by the due date: 1. Application Form 2. Personal Particulars & Medical Self-Assessment 3. Personal Biography 4. Deed of Release 5. Medical Clearance 6. Consent Form for Publication of Trekkers’ Work and Photographs 7. Visa Application 8. Supplementary Health Form 9. Passport 10. Copy of Passport 11. Covermore Insurance Application

Post to the Association at this address: (PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS) Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge c/- RSL & Services Clubs Association Suite 1103, Level 11, 109 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000

Sponsoring Club/Company ResponsibilityIt is the sponsor’s responsibility to work with their trekkers to ensure all these requirements are met, your cooperation and assistance to ensure all deadlines are met will be sincerely appreciated.

If you have any questions, please contact RSL & SCA on 02 9233 2624.

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CostCosts for 2016 Kokoda Youth Leadership Program are set out below:

Please note: Costs are subject to change depending on final numbers, currency fluctuations and other external influences beyond our control. Administration expenses are non-refundable.

Additional expenses that may be incurred by your trekker may be included in your sponsorship or incurred by your trekker. Travel and accommodation expenses incurred to attend the KYLC Workshop and on the eve and on completion of the trek (if required) are usually borne and organised by the sponsoring club.

Non-Refundable Deposit per Trekker due by 29 April 2016

Trek (ex Sydney, includes Travel Insurance) Trek 1 due by Wednesday 30 June 2016 Trek 2 due by Friday 15 July 2016

TOTAL:

Additional Expenses that may be incurred by your trekker:Travel and Accommodation expenses to attend the KYLC Workshop on 14th May 2016Travel and Accommodation expenses on the eve of the trekTravel and Accommodation expenses on completion of the trekPassportMedicineHiking bootsMiscellaneous equipment expensesSpending money on the trek

$1,000

$4,995

$5,995

$tbc$tbc$tbc$tbc$244$100+$150+$100+$350+

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Selection ProcessSeeking ApplicationsThere are a number of ways that your Club or Association can inform potential candidates about the KYLC and why they should consider submitting an application. • Advertise in your local paper: Place an advertisement in the local paper calling for applications for young people in the age range, and also provide a news story and photo at the same time so your Club’s sponsorship is promoted and explained. • Promote the KYLC among your Club members: Place a story in your next Members Magazine, on your Club website and promote it within the Club with flyers and posters to encourage the children of your members to consider applying. • Establish relationship with local High School: Many clubs have built a partnership with the local high schools in their feeder area and gained their participation for the Trek. In most cases, it is the Year 11 students who apply, as the HSC falls too close to the Trek for Year 12 to consider. • Work with local Youth Groups: Many RSL Clubs have a Youth Club. There may also be a Police Youth Club in your area. If there is a local gym, you could ask them to promote the KYLC and seek nominations.

Selecting CandidatesYour Club or Association Board should determine the criteria that you believe should be the basis for selection. As previously explained, the KYLC Program is designed to identify young community leaders, young people who have demonstrated strong values and attributes and to support and encourage young people from a disadvantaged background to use the Trek to achieve positive personal goals. We encourage those with family who have served in the Defence Force. Your Board should appoint a Selection Committee of three people to review all applications received, shortlist those that meet your criteria for selection and conduct personal interviews with each of the shortlisted applicants to decide who will receive your sponsorship of a place on the KYLC.

We recommend that apart from the “Application Form” that each candidate submits to provide the relevant personal details, they should also be required to submit a 300-400 word essay that gives their personal background and story, including any information about the military service of their family members in past years. They should explain why they want to do the Trek and what they hope to achieve from participating in KYLC.

This planning should occur before you start advertising for candidates. Your Club needs to have made its final selection and advised the RSL & Services Clubs Association of your Nominee by the closing date of 29th April 2016.

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Selection CriteriaThe Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge should be something young Australians aspire to do. The program will only benefit those who appreciate the privilege of being chosen and who are willing to learn about the Kokoda campaign prior to their departure. They should also be willing to commit to a rigorous physical training program to ensure they are physically capable of completing the program.

Applicants should therefore demonstrate a strong desire to participate in the program – an added preference is for young people who have had a relative serve in the Kokoda campaign, or other conflicts. This desire can be measured by a willingness to conduct personal research in order to gain an understanding of the Kokoda campaign prior to the final selection of the participants.

Applicants should be able to fulfill the following: • Aged between 17 - 25 years of age for the Young People’s Trek or up to 35 years of age for the Club Industry Trek; • Appreciate the privilege of being chosen and who are willing to learn about the Kokoda campaign prior to their departure; • Willing to commit to a rigorous physical training program to ensure they are physically capable of completing the program; • Applicants should therefore demonstrate a strong desire to participate in the program. This desire can be measured by a willingness to conduct personal research in order to gain an understanding of the Kokoda campaign prior to the final selection of the participants; • Participate in local media interviews and community events to encourage other young people to nominate for the KYLC program; • Provide a personal report back to the Director and Members of the sponsor Club or Association about their experiences and personal development whilst on the Trek • Ability to attend a KYLC workshop on 14th May 2016, at Petersham RSL Club, 7 Regent Street, Petersham; • Be able to travel: - Club Industry Trek - during August 2016 (1st to 12th August 2016) - Young People’s Trek - during the September 2016 NSW School Holidays (24th September to 5th October 2016) • Currently have or be able to obtain a passport; • Obtain relevant vaccinations; • Cover out of pocket expenses, estimated at approximately $1,000 AUD.

The success of the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge depends on the selection process.

The opportunity to participate in a trek across the Kokoda Trail is a privilege akin to a $6000+ scholarship. Participants should therefore understand that it is not a prize, a gift or a right - it is a privileged opportunity to develop personal leadership skills based on the values our Kokoda veterans held dearly - these include personal discipline, mutual respect, trust, mateship, courage and self-sacrifice.

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FORM 1

Personal Details

First Name: ....................................................................................................................................... Surname: ...........................................................................................................................................

Address: ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Suburb: ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

State: ........................................................................................................................................................ Postcode: ..........................................................................................................................................

Home Phone: .............................................................................................................................. Mobile: ................................................................................................................................................

Email Address: ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Date of Birth: ............................................................................................................................... Age as at Date of Trek: ..................................................................................................

Sex (please circle one): Male Female

Trek Details

Please circle the Trek you are applying for:Trek 1

Monday 1st to Friday 12th August 2016Trek 2

Saturday 24th September to Wednesday 5th October 2016

Occupation

Name of Employer: .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Position: ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Number of Years: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Education

School: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Current Year or Level of Education: ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Cadet Service (Army / Navy / Air Force)

Unit: .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Rank: .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Years of Service: ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Application for Selection

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FORM 1 Application for Selection

Community Service

Name of Organisation: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Years of Service: ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Name of Organisation: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Years of Service: ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Name of Organisation: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Years of Service: ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Referees

First Name: ...................................................................................................................................... Surname: ...........................................................................................................................................

Title/Position: ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Company: .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Phone: ................................................................................................................. Email Address: ..............................................................................................................................................................

First Name: ...................................................................................................................................... Surname: ...........................................................................................................................................

Title/Position: ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Company: .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Phone: ................................................................................................................. Email Address: ..............................................................................................................................................................

Statement

Please answer the following question:

Why would you like to be selected for the RSL & Services Clubs Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge?

Please attach a typewritten statement of approximately 600 words.

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Time LineMonday 17 January 2016Information on Entry Requirements and Application will be available on the RSL & SCA website.

Monday 1 February 2016Applications open

Friday 29 April 2016Applications close. Sponsors must notify RSL&SCA with names of participants and $500/trekker non-refundable deposit must be received by close of business.

Monday 2 May 2016Administration Kits containing all documents for trekkers to complete will be emailed to sponsors.

Saturday 14 May 2016KYLC Workshop, Petersham RSL Club, 7 Regent Street, Petersham.All trekkers and a representative of the sponsor or parent must attend.

Thursday 30 June 2016All completed paperwork and payments for Trek 1 must be received at RSL & Services Clubs office.

Monday 11 July 2016Last day to make any changes to 2016 Trek 1 trekkers without penalty (excluding non-refundable deposit).

Friday 15 July 2016All completed paperwork and payments for Trek 2 must be received at RSL & Services Clubs office.

Friday 2 September 2016Last day to make any changes to 2016 Trek 2 trekkers without penalty (excluding non-refundable deposit)

Monday 1st to Friday 12th August 2016Club Industry Trek - Trek 1.

Saturday 24th September to Wednesday 5th October 2016Young People’s Trek - Trek 2.

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Congratulations Letter

Congratulations Letter (Draft)

Dear (insert trekker’s name)

On behalf of the Board of the (insert sponsor’s name) may I offer our congratulations on your selection as our participant in the 2016 Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge. Our selection was made extremely difficult due to the high quality of candidates that applied, each of which would have benefited from the trek for differing reasons.

You will be joining more than 320 young Australians who have already completed the trek, which will be a life changing experience as you learn more about our Kokoda heroes, life in a third world developing country, and more importantly, about yourself and how you interact with other young people in dealing with everything that Kokoda can throw at you.

As you are aware, one of the criteria for the selected participant this year is to act as an ‘ambassador’ for (insert sponsor’s name) on your return. This may require you to either speak with our Board of Directors or at a meeting or events on your experience and what it has meant to you to complete the trek. I would appreciate if you could acknowledge acceptance of your preparedness to undertake this role.

The sponsorship covers the following: (use whatever is applicable) • the cost of the trek, including airfares • travel expenses to and from Sydney • overnight accommodation the evening prior and on return to Sydney • gym membership to assist with your training • some reasonable assistance for equipment. Your contact at (insert sponsor’s name) will be (insert sponsor’s contact name) who can be contacted on (insert phone number or email).

I would ask you to complete the attached paperwork and your medical assessment as soon as possible – your final selection of course will be subject to the trekking company, Adventure Kokoda, being satisfied that you meet all of the physical fitness and medical requirements to undertake the trek. If you do not already have a passport I would suggest you make application as soon as possible.

(Insert sponsor’s contact name) will liaise with you to ensure your paperwork is completed by (insert appropriate date) (including a photocopy of your passport) on time and to answer any immediate questions you may have. A KYLC Workshop will be held on Saturday 14 May 2016, at Petersham RSL Club, 7 Regent Street, Petersham, for participants in the program so they and their families can receive a briefing from Charlie Lynn of Adventure Kokoda (the company leading the trek) on what to expect on the trek and ask any questions about the trek, requirements or completing the paperwork.

Again, congratulations and I am confident you will meet the challenges of the trek.

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Media Release

MEDIA RELEASE (Draft)

The (insert club name) is calling for applications from young men and women aged 17-25 years of age to participate in this year’s Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge across the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea from 24 September – 5 October 2016.

The Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge is overseen by the RSL & Services Clubs Association and is aimed at young people at school or disadvantaged or unemployed young people in the community who are having difficulty in finding their way in society. It is also used to encourage young achievers with natural leadership skills.

The objectives of the program are to: • Create an awareness of the campaigns in Papua New Guinea during WW11; • Foster an understanding of the cultural diversity and environment of our nearest neighbour, Papua New Guinea; • Encourage a commitment to community service; • Develop adventure-based skills; • Enhance the personal development of participants; • Provide an opportunity to trek the Kokoda Trail to experience the conditions under which our Diggers fought and died for our freedom in 1942; and • Prepare participants for future leadership roles within our Australian community.

The program commenced in 2005 with only 11 trekkers. During the program’s 11th year, in 2015, a record number of trekkers attending over two treks, 3rd – 14th August and 19th – 30th September 2015, this took the total of trekkers sent through the Kokoda Youth Leadership Program to over 320 since the program began, representing an investment in Australia’s youth by RSL and Services Clubs of over $2million.

One young female participant wrote of her trek: ‘It was such a great experience, I learnt so much from Kokoda, both historically and personally. I especially liked how we were encouraged to set personal goals to change something about our life when we returned. I have come back to Australia and applied for a volunteer internship with UNICEF through my summer holidays and I would never have had the motivation if it were not for Kokoda and the experiences which I had over there. I have also volunteered with Red Cross – it was great how we were encouraged to go back and do something special, as it has made it so much more meaningful to go out and complete volunteer work, hoping that I am helping someone in some small way’.

Applicants for the 2016 Kokoda Youth Challenge should be physically fit, interested in the history of the Kokoda campaign and be willing to help build a better community on their return.

Those interested in the program should contact (insert contact’s name from club) to obtain a copy of the Application Form for the 2016 Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge.

--------------------------------------------------ENDS--------------------------------------------------

For further information please contact (insert club contact’s name) on (insert phone number or email).

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Media Release

MEDIA RELEASE (Draft)

(Trekker’s name) admit trekking the Kokoda Track will be tough, but both are beside themselves with excitement.

(Trekker’s name) are part of a (Number TBC)-strong group who are walking the track for the RSL and Services Clubs Association’s annual Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge, and are flying out of Sydney airport for Papua New Guinea on Saturday.

The 10-day challenge encourages 17 to 25-year-old Australians to learn more about Australia’s military history and the Kokoda Track campaign, while building their leadership skills.

(Trekker’s Name) are supported by (name of club), who granted them $6000 scholarships to ensure most of their costs are covered.

The trek is 96 kilometres long, and throughout the journey the group will experience an altitude change of 300 metres to 2200m above sea level.

(Insert personal information about your trekker such as: • background on why the trekker is participating, i.e. personal history - grandparent • their hopes and expectations, • training - i.e. using 12+kg packs and humidity training)

(Insert information on why the Club sees this sponsorship as worthwhile. Following are some quotes that may assist: • Kokoda would help build the next generation of leaders • It helps youths in our region get exposed to and understand our military history and the sacrifices made by the soldiers, and develop leadership skills • The aim is to sponsor a young person under 25 and provide them with an opportunity they might not otherwise get

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For further information please contact (insert club contact’s name) on (insert phone number or email)

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FAQsQ How many trekkers can I send?A There is no limit on the number of trekkers you can send. In 2015, one club sent 6 trekkers.

Q Does the club need to cover the whole cost of the trek?A Some venues choose to cover a percentage of an applicant’s trek and expenses and ask that the applicant fund raise the remaining cost themselves. This reaffirms the participant’s commitment to the program.

Q My trekker will need to fly into Sydney, who can organise the flight and overnight accommodation?A Flights can be organised by you or by Global Travel & Cruise. Please do not book your trekker on the last domestic flight of the day in case there are delays. The international flight to Papua New Guinea usually leaves early in the morning. Any accommodation will need to be organised by you. If you have a trekker under the age of 18 they will require a chaperone.

Q Does the trek leader have a “Working with Children’ clearance?A Yes.

Q I need help with a media release?A Contact RSL & Services Clubs for assistance with any media enquiries.

Q We’ve chosen our trekker(s), what should we do now?A Send the application form to RSL & Services Clubs Association by Friday 26 April 2016 to: email - admin@rslservicesclubs.com.au or fax - 02 9222 1054. We will then email you a set of forms for your trekker(s) including, Personal Particulars, Medical Clearance, Deed of Release, Visa Application, Additional Health Form, Travel Insurance Application and Pre-Trek Biography, that will need to be completed by your trekker and returned to the RSL & Services Clubs Association. Meeting with your trekker(s) to complete these forms will grow the relationship you have with your trekker(s). If you or your trekker(s) have any questions regarding these forms you can raise these at the KYLC Workshop or contact RSL&SCA on 02 9233 2624.

Q Why do we have to attend a workshop with our trekkers?A Workshop attendance is compulsory for the trekkers and one representative from the sponsoring club. This will allow you interaction with your trekkers and to ensure that all procedures are understood.

Q What happens if my trekker pulls out?A Unfortunately from time to time, this may occur. It is imperative that the Travel Insurance Application be completed as soon as possible, to cover any withdrawals. Please note, the deposit is non-refundable.

Q I have a question that is not listed here?A Contact RSL & Services Clubs on 9233 4624 for more information.

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Additional Information

Garrie Gibson at RSL & Services Clubs Association on 02 9233 2624

Phone

www.facebook.com/RSLServicesClubsKYLC

Facebook

RSL & Services Clubs Associationwww.rslservicesclubs.com.au

Adventure Kokodawww.kokodatreks.com

1942: War in the Pacific www.kokodatreks.com/history/thepacificwar1942/index.cfm

The Kokoda Campaign www.kokodatreks.com/history/thekokodacampaign/index.cfm

Major battles of the Kokoda Campaign http://www.kokodatreks.com/history/majorbattlesofthekokodacampaign/index.cfm

Websites

Television DocumentariesABC Documentary: RSL Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLCz7qUl9FFmqihaijuadJPoA8sJIU0D8q&feature=player_embedded&v=Q48HEYWTZVU

Life Challenge Kokodahttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3EP8nkSKOai3z9JDEvGJHQ

Angry Anderson Kokoda Challenge www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLCz7qUl9FFmplk_GItGEAJ33D0bNZunFh&feature=player_embedded&v=vLtFd8XnvYA

Sydney Swans on Kokoda www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&list=PLCz7qUl9FFmrNAQ8E39IeWYEZyZDW5sKf&v=BAiajXkG_m0

KOKODA: The bloody track www.youtube.com/watch?v=oScT3WhCk8w&feature=player_embedded&list=PLCz7qUl9FFmou6X54JsVJ2g8qNk7q6ZI8