Cochrane inspires with her feats

By Kelly Yates
YOU have the world at your feet.
That was the inspiring message from guest speaker Mary-Jo Cochrane at last week’s Girl Guides Victoria Women of Note Casey Mentor Breakfast as she spoke of her journey to the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea 12 months ago.
The aim of the annual breakfast, which was held at the Casey Civic Centre on Thursday 13 August, was to encourage and inspire young women to reach for the best in themselves as they plan their career paths.
The Year 11 girls from schools within the City of Casey met women who are successful in a variety of roles.
Hallam Senior College student Allana Landolfo was the master of ceremonies during the event, while the mayoress of the City of Casey Joy Ablett welcomed the 86 guests.
Assistant State Commissioner for Girl Guides Victoria Alison Bennett said the organisation represented women, with a focus on self improvement and self confidence.
Ms Cochrane, who trekked the Kokoda Track with six girlfriends, said the idea started while they were playing a game of tennis.
“We never thought we’d do it,” she said. “It just shows you can achieve what you set out to, and that anything is possible if you have a positive attitude.”
The mother of three said laughter made the 10-day walk easier.
“You could either laugh or cry,” she said.
In a few weeks Ms Cochrane is heading to Everest Base Camp and has also booked to do the Camino Di Santiago in 2010, a 300km walk across the north of Spain.