This cache is the third of a series of four caches on a hike towards Observation Point. The others being "Towards Observation Point - Wallaby Way" and "Towards Observation Point - Silverleaves" and "Towards Observation Point - Return"- Mystery cache. ( A cache you can find on your return.)
This semi-wilderness area on Phillip Island is a sanctuary to many bird species particularly the hooded plover. This cache involves a 6 km return hike from the Silverleaves Moss cache along the shoreline with no path. You will be walking on sand and there can be a tide variation. The Silverleaves General Store is open again but observe the parking signs if present. Driving down Silverleaves Avenue brings you closer to the cache and reduces the hiking distance, but there is no allocated parking along this narrow road so if doing so, park with discretion and try not to upset the locals.
Go to Cowes tides first or up to date tide information.
Please observe the no go areas (hooded plover nests especially) and no dogs please - ( I paddle by kayak along this strip when I am in the area and delivered the cache by this method over the Australia Day long weekend.) If you have a boat, then this is another way to reach the cache enjoying the views of Westernport Bay and French Island to the north. There is a boat ramp at Rhyll.
I placed the cache 400m short of Observation point where several birds rest, feed and sunbake at the opening to the Rhyll Inlet. It's still worth walking up there to see the birds and the views if you have time.
This cache is placed on the isthmus here, it is away from any nests and a small clearing exists. You can also access a good view of the inlet itself as you walk through and observe the birds quietly as you look for the cache.
The 2-meter variation in tide in these parts makes the beach look entirely different between low and high tide. Accessibility along the beach can be harder at high tide. So if you want a challenge with three caches on the way, Slip slop slap and carry water and some snacks. Recommended for adventurous older children rather than younger ones.
THE CACHE ;
The Cache is above ground. As you approach GZ along the beach do not go up over the sand dunes- Continue walking east along the beach until you reach the isthmus and go inland following your compass. There is a path to GZ . Creep in and go searching.
The cache is a good size but the log container at the bottom will not fit too much else in. It is a little fragile, so don't be too rough with it and seal it as well as you can without pushing it into the main container. Make sure the cache is stable and rested in its place for the next finder. I hope you enjoy the area. On your return you can pick up the Mystery Return cache by working out a little puzzle .
Any photos of your journey are encouraged. I put a small pencil in the cache. Congratulations to tassieexpat for FTF .