Longreach Mayor Tony Rayner reflects on the Kokoda Trail

Published on 12 August 2025

When Mayor Tony Rayner agreed to trek the Kokoda Trail, it was not out of political obligation or civic duty. It was personal.

Mayor Rayner knew the Kokoda Trail wouldn’t be easy, yet he was driven by what the journey represented. The risks were real—what started as a tough challenge soon turned more serious.

“You know, once we started, you’re committed. There’s no turning back,” Mayor Rayner said.

“I wasn’t the tour leader, but I was able to support and encourage others along the way.

“It really made me reflect on the role of a councillor or mayor. Those leadership qualities do not just help others—they help you push through too. There were days you just wanted to stop. You know, there are days when you just want to stop, and if you could catch a taxi or Uber.”

“But it was incredibly rewarding to complete it safely—and to learn more about the history of Kokoda. That meant a lot.”

The journey also deepened Mayor Rayner’s belief that more Australians should understand the significance of Kokoda—and the history that comes with it.

“People don’t realise this was the first war fought on Australian soil. Papua New Guinea was part of Australia at the time. They didn’t gain independence until the mid-70s. That changes the context a fair bit,” he says.

Another deeply meaningful moment for the Mayor came when he presented an Australian flag to a local village during the trek.

“When the Prime Minister was here for the disaster event in Longreach, I asked him and the disaster minister for a flag,” Mayor Rayner explains.

Mayor Rayner took the flag with him to present to the village elder, who had also attended that very same dawn service with the Prime Minister.

Mayor Tony Rayner presenting the Australian flag.

“He was very touched to be given an Australian flag by a group of Australians walking the track,” Mayor Rayner reflects.

The Mayor’s Kokoda trek was a test of stamina and spirit, much like his role in local government—and he’s more than up for the challenge.