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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Lithgow Station
Image: Wikipedia
With the completion of the Lithgow Zig Zag in 1869, the Western railway's terminus moved from Mount Victoria to Bowenfels, signifying the successful crossing of the Blue Mountains. Whilst the railway would continue west, Lithgow proved to be an important destination in itself due to coal and iron ore deposits. The line opened in 1869 but there was no station for Lithgow until 1877. The first station at Lithgow was located 430 metres east of the present site in June 1877. The former 1877 railway platform is still in existance. The line was duplicated in 1880.
In the first half of the 1920s, it was decided to expand Lithgow as a regional headquarters for the NSW Railways. Apart from the new large locomotive depot, the Railways selected a new site for the new Lithgow Station west of the original one.
The First Lithgow Station
Image: Wikipedia
Like most stations between Emu Plains and Lithgow, Lithgow received a standard Federation style set of two platform structures, a main face brick building and a detached brick "out-of" shed. There was also a footwarmer shed on the western end of the platform. The new station site featured two new buildings, both opened on 9 March 1925. The first was a timber booking and parcels office elevated on a steel beam frame with a concrete deck that was located adjacent to Eskbank Street. Access from this entry point was by a ramp and stepway to the island platform. One unusual feature was the installation of a lift for staff use only to handle baggage and parcels.
The station exit was originally located on the footbridge at the eastern end of the platform until replaced by the present concourse in August 1991. The overhead station offices and footbridge were constructed in c.1993 and access has been relocated to the western end of the station.
The XPT at Lithgow Station heading west
Image: Wikipedia
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To Find This Cache:
1. Go to the posted coordinates on the upper concourse.
2. Locate the Opal Top-Up machine.
3. Discover the machine code, including the hyphen, in the bottom left corner.
4. Enter the machine code into the Certitude checker to receive the GZ coordinates and hint.
You can validate your puzzle solution with
certitude.
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FTF Honours
Joshwa27
A Super 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.