Airfield and Racetrack- The Oaks History #7
Another in the series surrounding the history of The Oaks.The airfield was originally built by the RAAF in World War 2 with a 1500 metre runway and could hide aircraft should the major bases in Sydney come under attack.
Remnants of the original camouflaged airplane bunkers can still made out by a couple of small areas of trees at the bottom of the hill to the northwest .
Construction of the original Burragorang Road cut across the original runway, and now only the southern end of the airfield is in use by private operators.
The Oaks Racetrack was constructed in the early 1880’s and when in full use went around the outside of the airfield. Picnic races were held regularly .The committee consisted of members from The Oaks and Camden areas. Races covered distances up to 6 furlongs (1200 metres).Tea and soft drink booths were often used to raise monies for local charities. In addition to the races, competitions were conducted for guessing weight of sheep, peas in a bottle, length of a ribbon.
In the 1940’s foot races, melon races, stepping the distance races and tug-o-wars were held as well as a number of horse races.
Sydney Celebrities such as Willie Funnell often journeyed to the racetrack and participated in racetrack celebrity events. The racetrack closed in the 1950’s.
The cache is a small bison tube, well camouflaged. Some geocache tools may be required.
A small parking area is available outside the grounds should the access gates be closed. A walk of around 450 metres is then required. Pencil required.
Congrats to jkcourtz on (FTF).