You are probably aware of the Caprivi and Gaza Strips but there is also the Elouera Strip - well, that’s what I call it anyway. There are no majestic herds of Wildebeest or problematic political situations here, just a moderately attractive patch of native bushland harbouring a straightforward traditional geocache. As is typical of the urban-bush interface, the perimeter of the strip has been invaded by exotic species of flora. However, the vicinity of GZ is a little more pristine and while no Gnus is good news, if visitors are prepared to linger for a few moments they should be rewarded with the sights and sounds of the abundant birdlife.
This is only my second cache and my first in New South Wales. It is placed in a little visited corner of what is still known by locals as the Elouera Bushland even though it has undergone a number of administrative, status and name changes since the Elouera Bushland Natural Park was reserved in 1964. GZ is in a narrow peninsula of bushland protruding eastwards off what is now the Berowra Valley National Park, created in August 2012.
I have approval from the local NPWS ranger to place the cache in this location but, hurry, the consent term is only five years.
The best access is via the trailhead on Elouera Road near Ironbark Close. A bit of light bush-bashing off the track will be necessary to reach GZ but, at the time of placement, it was fairly open woodland with a lowish understorey. Always watch out for snakes, especially in the warmer months.
Parking is available in Elouera Road and Ironbark Close but I do not recommend stopping near the corner at the bottom of Elouera Road, it’s a bit of a black-spot.
GZ is a fairly muggle-free area but please conceal the cache well when replacing to ensure it can’t be noticed from a distance.
I think I have the difficulty and terrain ratings and the coordinates about right but am happy to tweak them if the feedback suggests I should. The coordinates were determined from a number of averages taken on my GPSr, but readings are influenced by the heavy tree cover.
Click here for more information on the Berowra Valley National Park, including any alerts current.
Congratulations to Yurt for the FTF, probably not unexpected, but very quick!