3,500+
people have taken on the Kosi Challenge since the inaugural event in 2013.
$4 million+
has been raised to support people diagnosed with rare, less common and complex cancers.
22,000+ kms
climbed in 2023 for Australians impacted by rare, less common and complex cancer.
What is the Kosi Challenge?
The Kosi Challenge is Rare Cancers Australia’s (RCA) major fundraising event, held in March each year since 2013.
It sees people unite from across Australia, including patients and families, to climb to our country's highest point, the summit of Mount Kosciuszko to raise much needed funds and awareness for Australians affected by rare, less common and complex cancers.
No Australian should have to go through their cancer journey alone. That is why we walk the journey with those impacted.
Take on the challenge for Australia's forgotten patients
After a sold-out event in 2023, you now have the option of taking on the Kosi Challenge on one of two days: Friday 15 March or Saturday 16 March 2024.
Attend In-person
Encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to register a team, raise vital funds and awareness for rare cancers, and make it a weekend to remember!
Challenge yourself virtually
Can’t make it on the day? You can still show your support and take on the challenge virtually – by walking or running 25kms, 50kms or reaching a goal of your choice during March 2024.
$5,434
Help us to reach our $750,000 goal
Michael just donated $36.93- Bruce ANNABEL just donated $36
Kirsten Kiely just donated $36.93- Michelle Fitzgerald just donated $52.50
- Jenna Dewhurst just donated $52.75
- Sue MacDonald just donated $105.50
- Richard Mills just donated $36.93
- Mia Nielsen just donated $4.27
Pam Low just donated $57.97- Dan Neylan just donated $100
- Shajyy just donated $95
- Anonymous just donated $105.50
- Shajyy2 Rifat just donated $50
- Shajyy Rifat just donated $110.72
Philip Maddren just donated $15.40- LInda Topalovic just donated $110.72
- Bridget just donated $105.50
- Heather just donated $263.75
Heather Cahill just donated $5.22- Faraz just donated $36.93
Leaderboards
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Top Fundraisers
No Australian should have to go through their cancer journey alone.
That's why we walk with them, and you can too.
In Australia, over 160,000 people are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2023.
For those told they are "rare", treatment options are limited and mortality is high.
Coupled with the exorbitant financial burden of non-subsidised treatments and a lack of information and support, it can be a very lonely and uncertain journey.
Top Kosi FAQ’s
How can I participate in the Kosi Challenge?
In-person
By joining us on Friday 15 or Saturday 16 March 2024 to climb the iconic Mount Kosciuszko.
Virtually
By walking or running 25kms (1km for every 1,000 Australians who will not survive a rare cancer every year) or 52km (1km for every 1,000 Australians diagnosed with rare or less common cancer every year), or by reaching a goal of your choice between 1 and 16 March 2024.
All challengers will receive a RARE branded cap, either on the day (in-person challengers) or in the mail (virtual challengers).
When is the event and what time does it start?
The in-person Kosi Challenge is an all-day event on Friday 15 or Saturday 16 March 2024. You can choose your own start time from the list below, according to how you plan to climb Mount Kosciuszko.
Due to the high number of participants, it is crucial that you arrive 20 minutes prior to your start time to allow for registration and event briefing.
Start times are:
- 7.00am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 7.15am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 7.30am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 7.45am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 8.00am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 8.15am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 8.30am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 8.45am Merritts Nature Track walkers only
- 9.00am Merritts Nature Track and/or chairlift users
- 9.15am Chairlift users to Eagles Nest only
- 9.30am Chairlift users to Eagles Nest only
Please note: A chairlift ticket is included in your registration.
The Virtual Kosi Challenge takes place between 1 and 16 March 2024. You can complete your 25kms or 52kms or set a goal of your choice at any time during this period, with the cut off being 6.00pm on Saturday, 16 March 2024.
What is the difference between the Friday and Saturday events?
Both days follow the same format – challengers begin their staggered starts from Thredbo Alpine Hotel in the morning, descending by early afternoon. After some food to recharge and a shower to refresh, challengers are invited to come together again in the early evening to celebrate the collective difference we’ve made for Australians impacted by rare cancer.
Hear from the people your fundraising will support, remember those we’ve lost, and purchase a BBQ dinner and drinks as you enjoy the company of new friends. A Kosi Awards Ceremony will also be included in Saturday night’s festivities.
How do I register and when do registrations close?
Please visit the registration page.
Registrations for the in-person event close at 12pm on Friday, 10 March 2023. Depending on numbers, event registrations may close earlier.
Registrations for the Virtual Kosi Challenge will remain open until Saturday, 16 March 2024.
All challengers will receive a RARE branded cap, either on the day (in-person challengers) or in the mail (virtual challengers).
What are the costs?
Adults attending in-person
Registration: $95.00
Children (under 17) attending in-person
Registration $45.00
Discounted accommodation is available for participants. Please contact Nicole Thrum, Events & Groups Manager, Thredbo on 02 6459 4184 and mention Rare Cancers Kosi Challenge to receive your discounted room rate.
If you drive your car into the National Park you will be required to purchase a Parking Pass. The cost is currently $17.00 per car per day.
See website for further information.
Adults and children participating virtually
$40.00
All participants will receive a RARE branded gift. Those involved in-person will get a cap or drink bottle on the event day, and virtual Challengers will receive a cap in the mail.
What does my registration fee cover?
The registration fee covers administration costs, event insurance, associated fees and promotion.
All participants will receive a RARE branded gift. Those involved in-person will get a cap or drink bottle on the event day, and virtual Challengers will receive a cap in the mail.
Since its launch in 2013, the Kosi Challenge has raised over $4 million for patients and invaluable public awareness for rare cancers.
