Kokoda trekkers 'should pass fitness tests'

A Kokoda Track tour operator has called for trekkers to pass mandatory fitness tests in a bid to reduce the number of deaths on Papua New Guinea's historic trail.

Phillip Brunskill, a 55-year-old Sydney man who died from a suspected heart attack while taking part in a trek, was the fourth Australian death on the Kokoda Track this year.

The Director of Adventure Kokoda, NSW MP Charlie Lynn, says there should be a standardised medical clearance form for all prospective trekkers.

Lynn believes that there "should be a comprehensive reform that explores their medical history and then if they have any of those cardiac risks factors and they're over the age of 30 then they should be required to undertake a scientific test, such as an exercise stress test or an ECG or a stress echo.

"Most people that trek across Kokoda are not required by the management authority to even submit a medical certificate and that's wrong, that's an abrogation of their duty of care.

"They need, I believe, to revisit this and demand a comprehensive medical clearance form and not issue any permits to anybody that doesn't have that clearance."

Brunskill was trekking with Adventure Kokoda and Lynn says he did pass a medical examination.

Image: Sydney gym Joe's Basecamp offers pre Kokoda Trail fitness preparation programs.

8th May 2009 - KOKODA TRAIL CLOSED BY PROTESTORS