When Light Learned to Write
In 1839 Louis Daguerre revealed the first practical photographic process, the Daguerreotype. For the first time light could be captured and made permanent. Photography had learned to write, not on glass or film, but on silver’s shining face.
This cache marks that turning point. Hidden in Ballarat, among a wall of cameras that once recorded thousands of stories, is a puzzle that will unlock your own.
The Experience
At the posted coordinates (alcove next to Camera Store - available 24hrs/day) you’ll find a small alcove with vintage cameras. Each of the four puzzle cameras is labelled A, B, C, D on the lens, matching the sequence on the padlock.
To reveal the code you’ll need to touch, feel and explore the cameras. Some clues are obvious, others are hidden, but everything you need is there. Handle the cameras gently, follow the order A → B → C → D and you’ll uncover the full sequence that opens the vault.
The result forms a year from almost 200 years ago, when light first learned to write.
Inside the Vault
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A film canister logbook: add your name to the history of this cache.
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A disposable camera: take one selfie per team. When the roll is full, it will be developed and displayed on the wall, creating a gallery of all who solved the secret.
The Riddle
When light first learned to write,
not on glass nor on film,
but on silver’s shining face,
four digits will open the gate.
Cache Details
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Type: Traditional Cache (Field Puzzle)
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Size: Small (film canister inside a disguised vault)
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Difficulty: 3.0
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Terrain: 1.5
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Location: Easily accessible from the street. No purchase or interaction required. Please be discreet and respect the area.
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Logging: Sign the logbook and if you like, take a selfie with the provided camera (one per team).
A Final Note
This is a hands-on field puzzle. Take your time, explore the cameras carefully and enjoy the moment when the vault clicks open. No force or tools are needed. Just as light was first captured in 1839, you’ll be capturing your own piece of history here.