For Andrew Short every step he takes is a reminder of how far he has come. Even if, with every second step, his trainer Lee Campbell is yelling at him to straighten up.
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"If you're not going to use that left pole, I'm going to come over there and kick it out from under you," says Campbell. "Look up, stand straight."
You want to tell Campbell to lay off him, but the pair know how the other ticks. They've been working together for four years now. And it works.
Short, 36, has cerebral palsy. While his mind is sharp - he has a degree in theology and is completing a Masters in disability care - his body falters, every step is hard work. But Short loves hard work.
Which is why he's heading to Papua New Guinea in April to walk part of the Kokoda Track.
The 20km trek, from Ower's Corner to Imita Ridge, is the latest in a series of challenges that Campbell has set Short in the time they have been working together. In 2013 they climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge, in 2014 they competed in a Tough Mudder event.
Last year Short walked the 11km around the base of Uluru, in 42 degree heat.
"But this one will the hardest one so far," says Short. "I think it will be an amazing achievement."
Short's father David, 74, who will also be completing the trek, says it's an achievement that his son is where he is today. He's seen improvements in his gait, his balance, his strength, but most importantly in his confidence and self-belief.
These things are important for Campbell as well. The former army paratrooper who runs the health and well-being business firm has enjoyed working with Short.
"Disability is a perception, not an excuse," says Campbell.
"Andrew is capable of so much. Working with him has been about improving his confidence, his self-awareness, his body awareness, his functionality, and seeing him achieve these goals is fantastic."
Campbell will lead a group of 16 on the trek which will run from April 1-10. Former Paralympian Greg Hibberd, who also has cerebral palsy, will complete the full 96km trek.
Both have been doing the kilometres up Red Hill, often before dawn.
Campbell has done the trek close to 100 times since 1997. He says the Kokoda Track has a special place in the hearts of the Australian people due to its historical significance.
"What the diggers had to battle through there during World War II puts our own battles into perspective," says Campbell.
The group has started a fundraiser to help pay for costs. You can donate here https://www.gofundme.com/7gk848us
