One of the many wonderful aspects of geocaching is that it takes you to places you've never been before! To celebrate this year’s International Geocaching Day, join me for my first visit to Cockatoo Island located in the heart of the Parramatta River. All local and international Geocachers are welcome to attend.
Between 1839 and 1850, Cockatoo Island operated as a convict prison, primarily as a place of secondary punishment for convicts who had re-offended in the colonies. From 1850 to 1992 it was the site of one of Australia’s biggest shipyards. The first of its two dry docks was built by convicts. For many years, Cockatoo Island played an important role in building, repairing and maintaining many vessels for the Royal Australian Navy, particularly during World War II.
Getting There:
I will arrive in First Fleet Park at Circular Quay, (see additional waypoint), at 10am to meet up with other geocachers. To recognize me, look for a fellow wearing a hat and shirt/jumper with the Geocaching NSW logo on it. I will also have my trekking pole with the Groundspeak logo attached as a flag. At around 10:20am, we will move to the ferry wharf to purchase tickets and board the 10:37am ferry. The fare to Cockatoo Island from Circular Quay is $12 return for adults and $6 return for children. Alternatively, you can get to Cockatoo Island from a number of ferry wharves around the harbour. Please check the Transport Information website for your options. Entry to Cockatoo Island is free. Some may prefer to make their own way to Cockatoo Island by kayak, tinny, hovercraft or whatever. This would then make the event a Terrain 5 activity for them.
The Event:
This will be a simple meet’n’greet that will commence at 11am in the vicinity of the published coordinates. Those who attend will have the opportunity to meet up with mates and make new friends with a common interest, pick up the latest information on equipment, techniques and software, share stories about the latest caching adventure and swap travel bugs and geocoins. You may even pick up a hint on those pesky DNFs or get a clue or two on how to solve a puzzle you've been stumped on. The logbook will be available for signing until 12:30pm, then it’s time to go for a wander around and explore this incredible island. The official group photo will be taken at 12pm. Food is available on the island or alternatively, bring your own picnic to enjoy.
Activities:
There’s so much to see and do on Cockatoo Island particularly self-guided and audio tours. For more information, explore Cockatoo Island’s website here.
Please post a “Will Attend” log and add this event to your watchlist so you receive any announcements. I hope you can come along and help celebrate this year's International Geocaching Day. (You may even get a souvenir for your profile!!)
Cheers, Calypso62
Did you know that NSW has a geocaching association? Geocaching NSW aims to enhance and improve the activity of geocaching and holds regular events where geocachers meet to enjoy their common interests. A link to the website can be found here.
