This two-stage multi geocache is part of the SideTracked series that is popular in the UK and throughout the world. It is designed to be a relatively quick cache find around train stations for travellers but, of course, anyone else can find it too! There's a small pencil included but it's always good to bring your own writing implement to sign the log.
To learn more about the series, visit the website at the following link...
SideTracked Series
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Meadowbank Station
Meadowbank Station opened on 1st September 1887 as Meadow Bank, being renamed Meadowbank on 6th November 1927.
To the south of the station, the line crosses the Parramatta River via the John Whitton Bridge. This opened in May 1980 replacing the original iron lattice bridge which has now become a shared pedestrian/cycleway bridge.
John Whitton Bridge
Land originally granted to Surgeon William Balmain in 1794, in the district of the Field of Mars, was given the name 'Meadow Bank'. By 1819 both the 'Meadow Bank Estate' and 'Chatham Farm' to the north, belonged to John Bennett. In 1823 he was joined by his nephew William Bennett. John Bennett died in July 1829, a bachelor, and his nephew inherited his estate, building Meadowbank House around 1835. The opening of the railway from Strathfield to Hornsby in 1886 provided impetus for development in the area. The estate was subdivided in the late 1880s either side of the railway line.
The primary destinations for visitors to Meadowbank are the employment areas nearby and the TAFE College. The open spaces around the foreshore of the Parramatta River are increasingly becoming destinations for visitors and residents alike.
Meadow Bank Station c1915
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**Please Note**
At all times, for safety, you must remain behind the YELLOW LINE on the platform while searching for the information you need.
According to the regulations, anyone entering a railway platform must have tapped on with their Opal Card, even if they don't intend to board a train. After gathering the information for this cache, you can then tap off. That will reverse the transaction. Apparently, transport inspectors can and occasionally do check the Opal Cards of people on railway platforms.
To find this cache, go to Platform 1. All information is found on the Platform 1 side only. Do not count any items on Platform 2. Look for the following:
A = Find the "Meadowbank Station Easy Access Upgrade" plaque on the wall of the station bulding. The day date it was officially opened.
B = The numbers of the "Payphone Identification Number" added together. (Ignore the X).
C = The last two digits of the signal at the southern (or road bridge) end of the platform.
D = The number of free standing silver light poles between the road bridge and the awning.
E = The number if grey metal bench seats with a "Meadowbank" sign attached.
F = The number of Opal Card readers in the vicinity of Platform 1. Check near the lift. Also, one pole is double sided.
Checksum (digits above) = 99
The cache is located at:
S33° 49.(A-19)(B-31)(C-19)
E151° 05.(D-4)(E)(F-4)
The Newcastle Flyer 3801, at full steam, passing through Meadowbank Station
FTF Honours
Morty8888
A Spectacular SideTracker
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. Visit the association website here.