By CASEY NEILL
THE MCG steps will help a Keysborough man on his journey towards Kokoda.
Keysborough’s Mark Capper has signed up for the Stadium Stomp, to climb 7343 steps around the top and bottom levels of the stadium on Sunday 5 July.
He’s registered a team under the Trek 4 Education banner, a group he established to support education for children in Papua New Guinea.
Mr Capper will lead a group along the Kokoda Track in August next year, delivering educational supplies to schools along the way.
“Because we’ve got so much time before we really have to start it’s a good way just to get the momentum going,” he said.
“Last year we raised $9000 and our target was $5000. We blitzed that.
“We’re hoping to do the same again at least for next year.”
Mr Capper, his wife Julie and 10 other people made the inaugural Trek 4 Education last September.
“Many Australians use their trek to raise money for causes back home – all very worthy – but most people forget that the people of the Kokoda Track area also need our help,” he said.
One in 12 children in Papua New Guinea dies before their fifth birthday.
“Kids that survive past the age of five are confronted every day with the daily struggles of living in a Third World country and this is even more exaggerated in rural areas,” he said.
Mr Capper said the country was rebuilding schools and training teachers but still lacked basic supplies.
“The kids along the Kokoda Track are direct descendants of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels and it is very well-known that our Diggers received much-needed support and comfort from them during the Japanese attacks in 1942,” he said.
The Cappers also donate money to the Kokoda Track Foundation, which awards scholarships and provides classroom supplies.
Wallara office manager and executive assistant Kay Noy from Dandenong took part in the Stadium Stomp half course last year and has signed up for the 1890-step challenge again.
Leukaemia claimed her cousin’s life five years ago and Stadium Stomp participants are encouraged to fund-raise for the Leukaemia Foundation.
“Once you get to the top it’s an amazing feeling,” Ms Noy said.
“Last year I did it on my own but this year I’m doing it with my son’s partner, Rachel.
“You can go your own pace.”
Ms Noy hasn’t completed any specific training but keeps fit through netball, running and gym work.
“I just love exercise and I love keeping fit,” she said.
Visit www.trek4education.com to support Mr Capper and www.stadiumstomp.com.au/MCG for more event information.
