HMAS #62: WATSON Traditional Geocache

This cache has been archived.

Smittengranny: This series of caches has been archived as new suburbs are encroaching on the area. Thank you to all who have visited the series and special thanks to the original COs for the placement of the caches. Thank you also to all who have helped with the collection of the old cache containers.

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Hidden : 7/20/2014
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
1.5 out of 5

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:


Information about this Series

The HMAS cache series has been created by Cankid and Delta Response Team to celebrate the 2013 fleet review and this is 62 of 101 caches. The series features 53 ships, 11 bases, 20 knighted seamen, 5 engagements and 1 cache about the RAN. There are also 9 puzzles for each section of the series, with one final cache. There is also one extra for the enthusiasts out there. The series can be done in a day and is best done in order. The best mode of transport in doing this series is bike.

The Location

The series is located just off Coppins Crossing road and continues through an area quite close to the arboretum. Park at the parking coordinates as provided in the first cache and continue from there. Please show caution and do not obscure the gate. This series will take almost all day so plan ahead, take water and snacks for the trip. As said previously, it is best done by bike. Most of the caches are on fire trails but there are some where you will have to go off track to find them.

This cache



HMAS Watson is a beautiful establishment with a long history closely linked with the defenses of our emerging nation. Its historical content is significant and is protected by national Trust. The land itself is surrounded by a National Park which is home to much native Australian fauna and flora.

The first permanent military presence on South Head commenced in 1871 with the development of Artillery emplacements to defend the Port of Sydney. Many of the fortifications (not the guns) still remain, as modified up to 1939. The first barracks, occupied by members of the NSW Artillery, were completed 19 March 1877. Extensions were added in 1880 to accommodate additional personnel.

Many of the early barracks constructions are still standing such as the Sergeants Mess, stables, guard house, Married Quarters, the Gun Park and Artillery store. The Army School of Gunnery was established at South Head in 1895.

In 1942 the Navy came to South Head, when the Navy RADAR School was moved from HMAS Rushcutter and renamed HMAS Radar. On 14 March 1945 HMAS Watson was commissioned as the RADAR Training establishment. In 1956 the Torpedo and ASW School were added to Watson, and ASW Mortar Mk10 firings were conducted in the inner harbour. The Chapel of St George the Martyr was completed in 1961 and is a memorial to all those who lost their lives in all wars. Watson became purely a Naval establishment with the departure of the Army in 1981.

Today Watson has a ship's company of 300 who are solely dedicated to providing the Fleet Commander Australia with personnel trained to perform war fighting roles at sea. The trainee load varies but is generally up to an additional 300 people at any time. The training conducted at Watson includes Junior Officer Seaman training, Combat System Operator training, Principal Warfare Officer training, Command Team training and the training of the new Commanding and Executive Officers of the RAN's ships and shore bases.

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