Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge recipients Jack Parr and Angus Dunne will join the Australians who make the pilgrimage this year, when they land in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in September.

The Orange Ex-Services’ Club (OESC) identified the pair as future leaders to represent the region on the 10-day trek, as part of a statewide RSL and Service Clubs Association initiative.

Charles Sturt University student, Mr Dunne said while he’s spent a lot of time in the outdoors camping and hiking, he’s never attempted anything like the gruelling 96-kilometre trail.

“It’s ten days in the jungle in challenging terrain with mostly people I’ve never met before,” said Mr Dunne.

“I hope to gain a better understanding of myself and my limits, as well as the relationship between Papua New Guineans and Australians.”

Mr Dunne’s grandfather was a navigation bomber stationed in PNG and his grandmother, a nurse, was based there.

A year 12 student at James Sheahan Catholic High School, Mr Parr said the trip will provide experience for his modern military aspirations.

Mr Parr hopes to follow his father’s footsteps by joining the armed forces, starting as an infantry soldier in the reserves in Orange next year.

“Given that I’ve had relatives based in PNG I imagine the Kokoda Track will be very emotional,” Mr Parr said.

OESC’s chair Ros Davidson said the quality of scholarship applicants made the choice difficult for the board, but the decision reflected the recipients leadership and achievements.

“Both Angus and Jack will be fantastic ambassadors for Orange,” said Mrs Davidson.

“They are both interested in taking on this challenge to learn new skills, knowledge and respect of military history.”

Both Mr Parr and Mr Dunne will receive an NSW RSL scholarship to the value of $6000, to aid them in there September 29 to October 10 Kokoda Track ambitions.