Senior Victorian policeman Wayne Rotherham has set himself the unique physical challenge of completing the Kokoda Track not just one way, but both ways.

His efforts will raise funds and awareness about the importance of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Mentoring Program in Wangaratta.

As Wayne explains, he will be accompanied by his family. “I’ll be trekking with my son and daughter where we’ll be able to highlight the importance of the family unit, working together and the importance of having a mentor in your life.”

“A few years ago, my family was subjected to a horrific experience which ended up causing my daughter to lose her job, mix with the wrong crowd and eventually ending up on the streets.”

“At the time, the only solution was to have her big brother act as a kind of mentor”, he said.

Wayne and his adult children have been in intense training. They left from Melbourne Airport on Saturday 31st July and arrived at Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea on Sunday morning 1st August.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters is a very important program, especially here in Wangaratta where there a lots of young people in desperate need for a mentor”, says Wayne.

Big Brothers Big Sisters matches at-risk young people (aged 7-17 years) with an adult mentor to provide support and guidance and to build a lasting friendship.

Research shows that young people who are matched to mentors are more likely to improve in a range of areas such as academic achievement, peer and family relationships, and participation in the wider community.

To show your support of Wayne and his family, please donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters at www.bbbs.org.au.

For more information:

Rach Edis: (w) 5721 8638, (mobile) 0411 351 669

Website: www.kokodabound.com.au