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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Pennant Hills Station
Pennant Hills station opened on the 17th September, 1886. Immediately north of Pennant Hills, a short four track section of the Main Northern line begins which runs to the next station at Thornleigh.
The present-day footbridge was built in 1992 and Pennant Hills received an easy access upgrade including lifts on each platform, becoming one of the first low-patronage stations in Sydney to receive wheelchair access, along with Waverton. Nearby Thornleigh and Normanhurst did not receive wheelchair access until 2023
Pennant Hills Station Circa 1902
As part of the North Sydney Freight Corridor project, an electrified passing loop was built behind the western platform where it joined the existing loop. As part of these works the western platform was converted to an island. The new platform opened on the 14 June, 2016.
Loading cases of fruit from local orchards.
Steam engines 3526 and Beyer Garratt 6029 parallel running through Pennant Hills on their way to Maitland for the 2024 Hunter Valley SteamFest.
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To find this cache......
1. Go to the main station overpass bridge above the tracks and look for a City Rail plaque commemorating the upgrading of Pennant Hills Railway Station.
2. Find the name of the Station Master at that time.
3. Using the code A=1, B=2, C=3..... Z=26, work out the word value of both his names combined. Eg, Bob Brown = 2+15+2+2+18+15+23+14=91.
4. We'll call this total "Rail".
5. Work out the following to give a set of coordinates in the northern hemisphere:
North (Rail - 105)° (Rail -109).(Rail+409)
West (Rail-156)° (Rail-136).(Rail+736)
6. Enter those northern hemisphere coordinates into the checker below and if correct, you'll be taken to a magical place. You'll then receive the coordinates and a hint for the cache that will be a little closer to home.
FTF Honours
JoshoForShort
A Super-Slick 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.