O'Keefe Rail Trail - ORT
This cache has been hidden as part of a rejuvination of the caches along the O'Keefe Rail Trail which were originally placed by Whits Wanderers and then ably cared for by Friends of the Trail and jtnsilo. Although placed in a new position, this one is a replacement for GC49GJ4 PPPT - Kick Start Series - "Stopping all stations" which was archived back in 2017. It is a bit trickier than the original.
The Rail Trail now extends from Bendigo to Heathcote and includes excellent infrastructure and facilities. For more information and updates check out https://www.bendigoregion.com.au/explore-bendigo/okeefe-rail-trail.
Following is the description from the original cache, much of which still applies today.
Continuing the Pedal-Power Power Trail (PPPT) with a "Kick Start" series of traditional geocaches that starts from the Bendigo end.
Pump up your tyres and dust off your helmets this series is designed for cachers of all ages to get on their bike and ride the O’Keefe Rail Trail !
We have continued the Pedal-Power Power Trail (PPPT) with a "Kick Start" series of traditional geocaches that starts from the Bendigo end.
You are looking for a micro container containing log only - BYOP. Although a micro, all hides in this series are next to the trail and should be easy to find.
Background Information
This line was built in 1888 by Andrew O'Keefe to link Bendigo and Heathcote. From here the line continued to Heathcote Junction, near Wallan, on the North Eastern main line. The construction of Lake Eppalock in the 1950s meant the end of this lightly-trafficked branch line and it was completely closed by 1968.
A rail trail between Bendigo and Axedale was established in the late 1990s though like its former railway it was basic affair with rough surface and many low level crossings.
Features
• Relatively flat rail trail traversing box-ironbark and yellow gum woodland
• The gravel trail surface is now of a good standard and all low level crossings replaced with bridges. However the many spring loaded gates remain.
• Horses are only permitted east from around Longlea to Axedale.
• A major upgrade is currently underway including extension to Heathcote.
• BYO food and drinks are required.