Pumphreys Bridge
Location Information
Pumphreys Bridge is located 25 kilometres east by road from Wandering. The location is a popular camping location, owing to its location by the river and proximity to other nearby attractions such as Dryandra National Park.
There have been many iterrations of the bridge that gives Pumphreys Bridge its name. The original bridge, a crude stone structure across the river, was constructed around 1865 and was the only means of crossing. The crossing on this bridge could also only be accomplished during the summer.
After the opening of the Great Southern Railway in 1899, both Pingelly and Narrogin were surveyed as townsites. This meant that both places were being prepared to accommodate Wandering settlers from both sides of the Hotham River. Owing to the increasing number of settlers, both south and north of the river, a new bridge was constructed in 1905. The contract for the building of the bridge was let to Mr White by the Road and Bridge section of the Public Works Department at an estimated cost of 750 pounds.
Since this time another new and modern bridge capable of handling the vehicle movements experienced today now stands to the south of this location. You probably travelled over it on the way here.
Cache Information
This cache is a fake rock. It is located adjacent to the bridge constructed in 1905.
The area is popular for camping during the time of the year when there isn't a fire ban in place, so please use stealth. I have located the cache on the side of the bridge that is away from prying eyes, in a bid to assist.
As is always the case, please make sure that you return the cache as found, to ensure that future geocachers enjoy the same experience that you do.
Don't forget to bring your own writing implement, as one is not provided.