4,000+
people have taken on the Kosi Challenge since the inaugural event in 2013.
$4.6 million
has been raised to support people diagnosed with rare, less common and complex cancers.
22,000 kms
climbed in 2024 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 people in Australia affected by rare, less common and complex cancers.
No one in Australia 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
The Kosi Challenge has now grown to run over two huge days in Thredbo. You can now choose to climb on either Friday 14 March or Saturday 15 March 2025.
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 2025.
$0
Help us to reach our $750,000 goal
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Top Fundraisers
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No person should have to go through their cancer journey alone.
That's why we walk with them, and you can too.
In Australia, about 169,500 people are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2024.
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 14 or Saturday 15 March 2025 to climb the iconic Mount Kosciuszko.
Virtually
By walking or running a distance you choose during the month of March 2025. You can go for one big expedition, or chip away a little each day, and set a target that suits your lifestyle. By joining us virtually, you can still be involved in the Kosi Challenge no matter where you are in Australia, or the world!
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 14 or Saturday 15 March 2025. 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 check-in 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 throughout March 2025. You can complete your walk, hike or run at any time during this period.
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.
We'll have a Meet and Greet on the Friday evening to hear the stories from our Friday challengers and welcome our Saturday climbers. Stay until Saturday evening for the Kosi Awards Ceremony, where we'll recognise our highest fundraisers, hear from those impacted by your fundraising, remember those we've lost, and enjoy a drink in the company of new friends.
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 7 March 2025, unless sold out earlier.
Registrations for the Virtual Kosi Challenge will remain open until Saturday 15 March 2025.
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.
Adults and children participating virtually
$40.00
All participants will receive a RARE branded cap, either on the day (in-person) or in the mail (virtual).
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 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 $4.6 million for patients and invaluable public awareness for rare cancers.
