Panorama Cache Green Point, New South Wales, Australia
By gren on 13-Apr-01. Waypoint GC6A0

Good spot and good view TFTC!

A revisit for me after finding it in 2020, on a walk out to Taffy's Rock with 1stConcordVL and Duck. Good to see it's still here.

A bonus cache while out bushwalking with friends. TFTC

Took me over 20 years to make it out here. Glad i finally did!

Wow, what an awesome walk. It looked so close on the map but it ended up being about 20km from Cowan and back and took us about 6 hours with a few stops to soak up the views. The track was easy to follow and the cairns just made it that much easier to know we were on... track.

Great company, great talk, great views and great walk. Thanks for the great day! Favourite point from me!! Took a TB.

Another cache visit in company of Crash2079. There was a hazard reduction burn in past month and wanted to check that the container survived.
Crash suggested coming in from Taffy's Gully to the northwest of the cache for something different. This cut off a large section of the walk. With the potential for a lot of scrub cleared out by the burn it looked like a nice route. We set out by kayak from Parsley bay a bit after 8am. Nice sunny day and water was flat though heading towards low tide. Some quick paddling soon had us in the right spot. Changed boots and secured the kayaks. My initial plan was to head straight up the creek but it was not burnt so headed up the slope to the top of the ridge line northwest of the cache. The going through the burnt sections was ok, unfortunately for us there was a lot of unburnt which was hard going. Got the top of Taffy's Lookout a few minutes before 10am. Was surprised to find a copper survey spike and survey markings here (see the new GA trig point https://geocaching.com.au/cache/tp13280 ). We continued along the ridge to Taffy's rock (about 1030am) and found the cache had survived unscathed. Have been here a few times but I think this the first to notice the carved footprints around the summit. Some of them lead to GZ.
We headed back along the path to the carving site above the gully then headed down through some burnt to a rock platform above the creek (11:10). Some very faint carvings here and a surprise find (RIP MRB). The track down to the water here very thick bush, we tried to follow the creek for a bit but were forced to find some higher ground to make better progress - took about 2 hours to cover about 1.3km. Eventually made our way back to the yaks then back to the little beach at Parsley bay by about 150ish. Not much wildlife - a few birds, a small frog in a pond at taffy's Rock, and a dead Bandicott. Luckily the fish and chip shop was open for lunch. A great lockdown escapade (in our LGA).

34779 steps today! Was dark when I got back to my car, I took about eight hours round trip from Cowan station

It’s not pink anymore.
But wow what an absolute adventure. I thoroughly read other log notes on how to access this cache and decided on parking my car at Cowan station and doing the long walk in. Left the car at 9 and didn’t get to the cache until 1pm as I took it rather slowly and had a morning tea break on the way in. I give it a favourite point because it got me off the couch and the view is absolutely worthwhile even if you follow the most windiest goat track to get there. Sitting up on the rock having lunch I’ve done 17000 steps to get in and scrounge around to get the cache. Gonna be a tough walk out but I’m sure I will manage before dark. A great way to spend the long weekend and work on my fitness! Tftc
Also checking this one off my Jasmer grid as it was the oldest cache within 200km of home!!

Beautiful cool summers day. Dropped in to Panorama cache on my way out to visit Cliff Trig on top of the next hill.

I was amazed that I had eaten lunch just above the cache just August 2, 2020 - just six months ago before I started Geocaching.

It’s a beautiful walk with a rewarding view at the end as the cache name suggests.
The track to Panorama cache is well enough trafficked that it’s easy to follow. Continuing on to Cliff Trig on the other hand is far more difficult. I think it took me 90minutes from Cowan to panorama (~8km) and another 60 or so to traverse the next 1.5km to Cliff Trig.

Wow, thanks for the lovely walk out to this beautiful spot. I took two travel bugs along with me for the ride and dropped off Wally Gecko here to begin the summer since he loves the sun.

On an urgent mission with Mulder and Scully. No aliens here today.

I signed the log again having first found the cache in December 2015. I love this place with its long trek in and the amazing rock formations. Have you found the footsteps (mundoes) carved across the top of Taffys? I found 9 so far. Half way between Taffys and Edwards Trig (the one closest to Taffys) is the huge aboriginal carving of the whale with the roo nearby and another strange fish-like shape nearby. Remember to pause and have a look. How many of you will spot the carving of the fish with the eroded head which is 2/3 of the way between the whale and Edwards Trig? You will literally step on it.

What a bliss, the first real bushwalk after the horrendous fire season is (hopefully) over! Since October I had been holding off from heading out due to the high fire risk but the recent weather has finally changed things around and we are starting to return towards more normal conditions, at least at the coastline. [^]

A train to Cowan, nice stroll to Jerusalem Bay - and then the workout started. The climb up from there is rather exhausting. After that, though, things get easier and the path is mostly very moderate. Though, on the way back, the undulation felt tiring but due to train schedules, I was able to have a long rest at Jerusalem Bay which was enjoyable.

Lunch first, then the hunt. First I searched at the wrong level but it became obvious quite soon that a change of location would be useful. Once I found a good, safe route to where the real GZ is, the find was easy as the container was well exposed.
Did the formalities at my lunch spot, returned the logbook back and packed the container away slightly better hidden.

Interestingly enough, the previous finder had written in the logbook that they didn't find the cache. Well, there's a photo to prove that they did find the logbook, at the minimum...

All good here! TFTC and a fantastic hike, Gren!

Found it then carried onto Cliff Trig

Parked the geobeast at Cowan Station and took the GNW to the top of the ridge and saw the turn-off track to GZ . 2 hours later, I make it to GZ and found the cache quickly. Did the legals and replaced as found. This cache fits into my criteria of favourite points . Just love everything about this. The challenging walk, the views and the location. TFTCM . All up 7hrs car to car.
Cheers dkmacca

In need of a bush walk, I came out here in one of the few areas not to be affected by this summer's bushfires. Found the cache easily and signed the log while enjoying a cup of tea and the view. Took the tb.

Out for a walk with a couple of muggle friends, had lunch up above, peering through the smoke haze. Checked on cache all in order, adjusted it covering slightly to protect the plastic a little more. Love this spot out here!

●• Panorama Cache•●
Le 30 septembre 2019

Quickly found, great objectif for jamer challenge !! Thx you

In Australia for 4 months
I travel by car , I am a backpacker with a friend. During my journey and hundreds of kilometers, I do geocaching. I thank a lot of the owners. Australia is beautiful
Un énorme MERCI à gren pour la pause et l'entretien de la cache ! Salutation de France

On a mission for Ragnar and his sons. The gates of Valhalla can't be far away. Dropped a TB in honor of the Gods.

With some terrific August weather today we walked the GNW from Cowan to Brooklyn with the aim of heading out to Taffys rock as a side trip. It was a really great walk down from Cowan to Jerusalem Bay and a steep climb up to the trail head for this one. An enjoyable walk out along the partially overgrown trail with some interesting old trigs and rock features along the way. We really enjoyed this spot here at Taffys rock, we sat for a while and had lunch after finding the cache. Fantastic views and very peaceful. Also great to find such an old cache too. TFTC!

Great cache - I reckon this is one of the best places ever to have lunch, I've been out to Taffy's Rock once before, but I hadn't started geocaching then. I wanted to go back to make the extra hike north to Taffy's Lookout, and this time I logged the cache. It took me a little while to find because I kept thinking it would be in other spots. Beautiful day. Great walk, although it got a little less pleasant after seeing a big black snake glide past me in the undergrowth at the side of the trail. The trail is still very easy to follow to the Rock. TFTC.

Not long after discovering geocaching, back in 2004, I came across this cache and it went on to my must do one day list. Well finally I can take it off the list.

I organised some friends to go with me on a walk out to Taffys Rock. We left Cowan and headed down to Jerusalem Bay and then back up again to the Taffys Rock turnoff. We were a little surprised by how rough (and steep) the GNW is. We had a break at the second bench seat before we found the Taffys turn off. The Taffys track was very easy to follow and some sections appear to have had the hedge trimmers run along it. Passed several lookouts and those amazing stone trigs.

We reached Taffys just on lunch. I grabbed my GPSr and wandered over to the cache. A little scrambling around and bingo. It was nostalgic to open the logbook and see the i! on the first page. Not sure if people are aware of how much the Ideology guys contributed to geocaching in this country. It was with great pleasure that I signed the logbook.

Re-hid cache and walked back to the top of Taffys rock feeling very fulfilled at having finally done this cache. For me, caches like this are what geocaching is all about.

TNLNSL.

TFTC,
Michael (GPS).

Popped Bart's cherry

Nice cool day for a bush walk. Collected TB to move on.

Today, I made a beautiful hiking trip throu the Australian bushland. And it seems a long time that anybody visites this cache. But everything is fine. I took a TB.

TFTC and Greetings from Germany

Last night over dinner The Hancock Clan and Wazza9 talked about which way we would tackle this one, as I didn't want a huge walk, decided to take a shorter walk, we needed to bush bash from the Highway to the main track and then onwards to the cache, much shorter than from Cowan. Made it to GZ around midday, then which track to take to grab the cache, as it was milestone they let me led the way, arriving there I noticed the container had changed. Signed the book with pleasure my 4000th find took 2 trackables and left 2. Thanks to gren. The view was great, we sat down and enjoyed lunch in the sun.

TFTC,

What a great weekend it has been caching on the north side with The Hancock Clan.

It was worked out along the way that Nana nel would make this her 4,000th find and making the walk out to this cache was her way of marking that milestone.

What a great adventure. It was decided that we would reduce the length of the walk and remove the need to go down to and up again twice to sea level by starting at a track showing on the OSM tracks overlay near the Motorway. The parking spot was located and we made our way to the track and with the assistance of the GPS along it until we reached the more formal tracks. It can only be guessed what the history of that track was with evidence that at some time, there was a constructed road there.

The wild flowers are starting to come out and we saw some great scenery from high spots along the way. After about 6.5 Km's we reached GZ and after doing the caching duties, learnt about Taffy's Rock from the plaque placed by the Rucksack Club (Sydney) in memory of Dorothy (Taffy) Townson who died on the 8th January 1948. We sat on a rock and enjoyed lunch, great company and views on a splendid day.

Visited a group of trackables, dropped a couple off and added a favourite.

We were staying in the area for the weekend with Wazza9 and Nana Nel and decided that this cache would make a great option for the Sunday. The weather was beautiful, we had been wanting to find this one for a while, and Nana Nel was needing a worthy cache for a milestone. It was the perfect choice.
We enjoyed the walk from a track that we'd heard about and was also marked on Open Street Maps. It was pretty tough going and very overgrown but cut out a lot of the long steep section from Cowan via Jerusalem Bay. By the time we got to GZ it was lunch time and we sat on the rock admiring the fantastic views whilst having our picnic lunch and watching several seaplanes land and take off in the estuary below. We spent a little while searching the area for the cache but the coords were spot on and it wasn't a tricky find once we were at the right level. It's always very satisfying to come across caches placed such a long time ago like this. Add to this the enjoyable walk, super views, and the good company, and we had a great choice of cache for the day. And yes, even though we took the shorter option, it still took us most of the day to get there and back. TFTC gren, a definite favourite. Exchanged several trackables.
Cheers,
The Hancock Clan

What a great spot! I can't believe it took me so long to get around to this cache, considering that I live so close. We left Cowan at 12 and the whole trip took us about 5.5 hours with fairly brisk walking and a stop for lunch. We found the cache but couldn't find the plaque.

The views from this near 16km walk from Cowan station makes this geocache worthwhile. Long pants and long sleeved clothing advised and make sure you are well prepared for the distance, the climb and have enough water/food etc

This cache has been on my to do list for a while but considering how long it takes to get out to it my opportunities have been infrequent. I'm glad I made it out here. The views were stunning. I had planned to push on the the trig on the next ridge but I was out of time. Was definitely worth the trip. Thanks.

Oh thank you so much for this cache! The views are unbeatable!
I've marked this as a favourite. a tough but extremely rewarding walk. I started and ended the walk at Cowan and took 6 hours with numerous breaks. The climb out of Jerusalem bay is a killer and I got lots of scratches on the arms from nearly bushbashing through the overgrown trail on the way to the cache - it was so satisfying though! It would be far easier to use the motorway entrance but I wanted to see Jerusalem bay again. I got so much more!

Started from Cowan pretty early. The track from GNW looked like it hadn't been walked for a while, spider webs everywhere. Beautiful views from Taffys Rock. Thanks for giving us a reason to go out there. Great location!

I made it! After getting off the train at cowan we had a easy walk down to the bay. I was with a mate of mine from my bushwalking club. After getting to the bay the fun started. His heart was playing up with AF and found the up hill after the bay that hard. We did it in 5 meter stops and took us over a hour to just get up the top of it. I was really concerned about him and being a hot day was going through the water like anything. We got to the taffy's rock track turn off and I said how about you rest and Id go in and see if I can get to the rock. I raced down past the first trig and then the second. Got to the rock in a hour. I was scratched to the high and had sweat just dripping off me. I found the cache. Sat down for a 10 minute break annd then started to head back to my mate. I had ran out of water and struggled to get back. Another bushwalker who I saw at the rock caught up to me and gave me alittle water. I made it back to my mate and then we started our journey to Brooklyn. Note dont do this! Go back to Cowan. My mate really struggled and couldnt even go up the slight hills without having a stop. We made it back to the pub and I had to call a ambulance for him. He is ok and now is resting in hospital. Finding the cache was great the views were excellent but not for someone to do who has a heart problem and take lots and lots of water, specially on a HOT day. TFTC

Still catching up on my logging from past months.
Found it with Dad (Kid Ron Satan) - see his log - and Gatherer Hade. A long walk and a great adventure!

8/7/16. 12:40 PM. **Cache #4000 WOOHOO!!!**
1 find today - Brooklyn. Found with **Yelyac** & **Gatherer Hade.**

I've got a handful of caches left to find in Hornsby Shire and they all involve massive walks, which is why I've generally put them off for later. This one's no exception. But with my **#4000th** milestone coming up, I decided one of these would be a suitable cache to target, and this old one looked the goods. From a while ago, I had picked this date, which suited our schedules, but as the date got closer and closer, it soon became apparent that the rain would be a factor.

I nearly gave #4000 to an FTF instead yesterday, but ended up DNFing it. So back to the original plan. Forecast was for no more than 5mm, so suck it up, princess. As it turned out, we barely saw any rain which would have been a good thing...except I hadn't factored for how narrow the track was, so with >30mm yesterday, all those plants we brushed past were just waiting to dump litres of yesterday's rain all over us, from head to toe. So it was a very soggy day anyway. But back to the start...

...Yelyac and I met GH at Mooney Mooney, piled into *The Hademobile* and parked at the emergency phone on the M1, around 9:30. From here, a short walk down to the trail head and after a bit of a search we found the trail heading off towards the GNW. This stretch was the narrowest and most overgrown, so we were already soaked before our first half km. After crossing the GNW, the track improved for a while, but there was still plenty more thick bushes to swim through further along.

We passed the two trigs, through more of the ups and downs, and found some of the rock climbing to be fairly tough and slow going. When we measured that we'd gotten to the final km to GZ, I put on a burst of speed and we made it to Taffy's Rock around 12:20. Lots of clambering along (down looked slippery and dangerous), bet eventually we realised that's where we needed to be.

A little while to find the right overhang, but eventually I spotted an area that looked very much like someone's spoiler photos from their logs that I had remembered. So I knew it was the right one; I found the cache and called the others over. We read through some old logs, signed, and I swapped 1 TB in for 1 out. Rehid and then made our way back to the top of the rock, after a fairly hairy moment with Hade on a steep bit. At the top, we paused for lunch and contemplated the walk back.

Couldn't stay too long, so it was time to head back. Some of the bushes were a little dryer, but most continued to make sure we stayed drenched. We pushed hard to get back, still a reasonable balance of ups and downs. Back to the emergency phone by 3:45, so a 6.25 hour return for us, not bad. Ah - but where was GH's car? He might recount the rest.... I'm just enjoying being warm and dry, albeit a little sore, four hours after our walk.

Great fun, and of course it did earn a fave point for the excellent adventure, but let's never do it again. At least not after so much rain anyway! It was my 19th NSW old school cache, too. A great way to celebrate #4000 in good company too. TFTC.
} : )

#3200 (streak day 417)

What idiot goes on a long hike, along thin overgrown trails to a cache on a wet rainy day? Oh, me.

**Kid Ron Satan** had sounded me out re this cache after we found *ILLA WRONG* recently. He wanted it for his big milestone, and since I hadn't grabbed it yet I was happy to tag along.
And then I realised that I was close enough to a lesser milestone of my own, so cached to a total so today would be #3200.

The weather wasn't looking good all week, but we decided that so long as the rain was only light we'd still go for it. For the most part, the rain stayed away, but the plants lining the paths were just laden with water - ie we got quite wet on the way out (dry on the way back , something must have shaken the water off earlier in the day... [:p] )

I met **KRS** and **Yelyac** at Mooney Mooney and we all went in *The Hademobile* (the Chariot is bigger) to our starting point.

Long walk in with a few spots with great views - albeit they'd be better on a fine day.
Once or twice we lost the track but the new map app we'd all downloaded this week kept us on target with good path graphics - thank you *PokémonGo*! No Pokémon out there, though.

At GZ I originally went high, **Yelyac** went in the middle and **KRS** went low. Finally the cry went up as we were all converging on the right spot - CIH!

Discovered a few TBs and signed the log. Then back to the main platform for lunch - hint, just because a teenager half your weight can go up a slope doesn't mean you can... Very slippery in the wet and I just couldn't get purchase in one area. Got there with assistance - should have taken the same way out that I took in.

The walk back seemed to go quicker - but we still managed to lose the trail once. **KRS** even added a cairn at one spot - the numerous ones we saw on our way were very helpful.

So we get back to our parking spot a bit over 6½ hours after leaving and *The Hademobile* is not there. A quick phonecall and one very helpful policemen later we found where it had been towed - just not tucked in far enough it seems. My first time in a police car too. I note the speedo goes to 250kmh, and it really had some serious acceleration.

But I digress. After that short interruption I dropped my companions back at Mooney Mooney - where a few Pokémon were caught. Then back home.

Great experience, a favourite, but as **KRS** said, I'm glad I don't have to do it again.
Mind you, there are a few spots along the trail we noted that could probably get NPWS approval for a new cache...

SLTNLN
TFTC

This was a nice way to dust out the cobwebs a few days out before I tackle a 30+km walk at Navshield. Approaching my 20th year of Nav I recall the CO being renowned for his demanding course setting in the early years of Navshield.

Under beautiful skies and with fantastic views steeba and I enjoyed the walk to this pioneering cache. Once the bustle of the freeway was left behind the peace of the area could really be enjoyed.
Thanks gren

Well The Rats was on a bit of a mission to complete some old caches so it was off for a day's caching today. We left early and after a bit of traffic arrived at the emergency telephone spot on the freeway, where we pulled in and backed off the road. We headed East (but on return came down from the south) and had a bit of scrub to start for the first 10-15-20 minutes. We then crossed the rough track heading down to the Great North Walk. Over the GNW and we enjoyed a nice walk out on the rough track, with some great views, a couple of nice old trigs and sandstone bits. We eventually got to Taffys Rock and after a short search nabbed the cache. I grabbed a TB in there. Then it was back the way we came (correcting our error at the start and finding the overgrown but old road back down to the freeway). A bit short of a four hour round trip. TFTC!

I had my eye on this one for a while and so planned to go on this day. The weather forecast wasn't too bad so we headed off. It turned out to be a lot hotter than we expected and we had our doubts if we would make it. But in the end we did made it and enjoyed the challenge. We were also grateful for the little cairns along the way and the pink tape that Geo944 had placed and some track notes by hikeblog.com.au. Anyway it all worked out well. Found the cache ( although it is now a strange colour of pink), had a good workout and enjoyed the bush. We had a lovely dip on the way back to cool our hot bodies. TFTC It certainly is in a beautiful area.

What a wonderful cache. A great challenge if you set out from Cowan Station. I thought it was reasonably steep going down to Jerusalem Bay but then I climbed up the track from the Bay towards Brooklyn. It's probably not giving the game away to say that the track toward the trigs and eventually the cache starts behind the sign where the track starts to level out after the big climb. Thank goodness for the little cairns of stones because the track is very narrow and overgrown with spring growth. I added a few bits of pink track marking tape to assist.
Thanks for this wonderful cache.

#148
I've had my eye on this one for a while as it looked like a great challenge. When a friend contacted me to go geoCaching on my birthday, I couldn't resist. We'd walked the Brooklyn to Cowan track several times as part of Oxfam training a few years back so were quite familiar with that section and started off from Cowan station at 10:15. Jerusalem Bay was stunning as usual at high tide. Found the turnoff to the lesser walked trail at the top of the ridge and for the first km, the going was pretty easy. Then the trail became much more overgrown, but thanks to the many trail markers, the track was pretty easy to follow. We took time for a lot of photos along the way of spectacular scenery and other points of interest, but it still seemed to take longer than we expected, finally getting to GZ at around 1:30pm. The view was absolutely amazing and well worth the walk, and thankfully the cache was quickly found. After some lunch and a rest we had to face the reality of the walk home. Thunderstorms were predicted and we could see the dark clouds rolling in on the horizon. But just as we were leaving, this cache had another surprise in stall for us - it was Elvis (the large fire fighting helicopter) doing some manouvers around Porto Bay. It ended up flying directly over us. What a hoot. The walk out was long but uneventful and we arrived back at Cowan station by 5:15pm. Saw 2 snakes on the way in and lots of skinks on the way out. Looking at some other logs now, seems that there is more to see around GZ, so definitely keen to make this trip again. All in all a magical day with great company and awesome views. Highly recommended! TFTC

With the cold, wet and windy weather that's plagued most of my spring holiday finally gone, today seemed like a good day to attempt this highly recommended cache.

My journey began with a bicycle ride to Woy Woy station to catch the 8:25 to Cowan. Under a clear sunny sky with a pleasant coolness still in the air, off came the shirt as I descended towards Jerusalem Bay. Reaching the bottom, the water looked cool and inviting, prompting me to make a mental note to go for a dip on the way back.

Next came the dreaded climb back to the top of the ridge. Could it possibly be any steeper without being vertical? Somehow I doubt it. Severe erosion in places was also noted, something that was to come into play on the way back.

Forewarned, I made sure not to miss the narrow track hiding behind the sign at the top, and the real part of the journey began. Initially the track wasn't too overgrown and was reasonably level, making me think happy thoughts as I trundled along. Some nice views over Cowan Creek opened up on the right, too, prompting a short detour for some photography.

At the first big cairn I couldn't resist the temptation to climb on top to become king of the castle. Glad there was no-one else about to watch my antics.

Then the going got tougher, a lot tougher. The undergrowth began consuming the air space above the track, making constant scratching on my arms unavoidable., and the ups, downs, turns and twists began in earnest. On several occasions I lost sight of the track and had to double back - thank heavens for those little stone cairns along the way or I would've become seriously lost.

Ever so slowly the numbers on my GPSr counted down, hundreds of metres becoming tens until finally I emerged atop an amazing rock shelf with all the views this cache is acclaimed for. After making the find and having lunch, it was out with the camera again. A prompt on Facebook from Elev8ion (aka mrnoo17) sent me searching for caves, and although I found a couple, I suspect there may have been something more substantial hiding somewhere I couldn't reach.

Time for the return journey, and as the day warmed, the undergrowth seemed to have encroached further onto the track than it had been on the way out. With my water stocks dwindling, I finally reached the main GNW and the perilous descent into Jerusalem Bay.

My sense of balance has been damaged by Meniere's Disease and is particularly troublesome on steep descents when carrying a heavy pack. The previously-mentioned erosion has also left many exposed rocks, roots and stumps waiting to catch a toe and throw me off balance. With leg muscles protesting loudly, it was a very slow journey down. I was so looking forward to that quick dip in the bay at the bottom...

Except someone had stolen all the water! The tide had gone out, well that's putting it mildly. The whole bay was bone dry! Off in the distance, where there was still some water, a few boats sat at anchor (or aground, I'm not sure which). With a sigh (and aching legs) I hoisted my pack and began the climb back up.

With the sound of the M1 traffic growing louder, I finally made it to the top at Cowan station, eager to dash across to the general store for some much-needed refreshment. Except there isn't one! All I could see was a boat shop. A south-bound train was due in, so I decided to duck down to Berowra and try my luck there.

Continues in the accompanying note...

Having hit the length limit, here's the rest of my log...

Somewhat refreshed, but with legs threatening to cramp at any moment, I boarded the 5:12 train to Woy Woy (the same train I normally catch home from work). I don't know what my fellow passengers thought of my bloodied arms and generally wretched appearance, but none seemed to stare for too long.

Once at Woy Woy, I remembered that I'd cycled to the station. Barely able to walk from the platform, I bought a bottle of expensive water and decided to catch the bus home, except I'd just missed one. With the water infusing my dehydrated body, I ended up going for the bike, surprisingly making it home without adding much to my overall aches and pains.

So endeth this great adventure, the stuff of legends I'll be able to tell the nurses about when they cart me off to the old folks home. Many thanks for maintaining this awesome cache.

Found my first ever geocache!
was an epic day, caught the train to cowan, started around 8am and got to Taffys around 11am. After an early lunch it didn't take long to find the cache using the coordinates. (It's not a pink bucket anymore).
Once I got back to the GNW I decided to head to Brooklyn. It was a nice day to be out in the bush, I spotted an echidna on the way home too.
TFTC

After a trip down to Sydney for work I decided to find a few caches around. Maybe I should have found less so I had more time for this one or maybe I should not have attempted this one. I parked and left Cowan train station at about 2:30PM. It started flat and I felt good after a warm up hike earlier. Then 300 meters later it was all down hill. Sure, it was fin going down now, but I knew I would be tired later coming back, with it reading 5.5 kilometers as the crow flies away. Following the great north walk was easy, but after a fair bit of down hill it went up hill, very steeply, and I had enough of that, so with only 3.3 kilometers to go I decided to bush bash. I found a few rock out crops that helped me, but it was slow going one hundred meters later and I regretted my decision, I then curved my way back to the path and found the goat track. I had taken my shirt off as it was soaked with sweat and once at the top I found the actual track to the cache, but it was very narrow and I was soon covered in even more scratches. After a while I realised someone had actually made little rock towers to help guide the way and when I nearly followed a rock over a cliff I was even more grateful as it helped me find the track again. Some sections I did a slow run, but mostly I was power walking as I could see the Sun was getting low and I doubted I would get back before dark. I finally made it to GZ, but did not have much time to enjoy the views, though I was close to seeing a sunset. After checking a few caves I found the right one and was soon on my way again (at 5:15). By now I was extremely tired and one of my legs had started to seize up. I had no choice but to keep going. Halfway back to the great north walk and it was completely dark. I lost the trail a half dozen times in the dark and was even more thankful to whoever made the rock towers. Finally I made it to the GNW and had to go down the crazy hill with a head torch that only lit up two meters in front of me, so I did not grasp the potential danger of what I was doing. Going down and level ground was OK, but then came the up hill again and I slowly limped my way up. Maybe, again, because I could not see as far, the walk up was not as bad as I remembered, but I still lost the path three or four times. Finally I made it back to the car (7:30) and my two liters of water was still not quite all used up. So maybe I just over reacted. Still, wow, what a mission. I was sore and had blisters for days after, and avoided all walking I could.
Thanks for the biggest geocaching mission I have ever undertaken, amazing views and a great overall cache!

Hard track, but awesome views.

Revisited my all time favourite cache today. Views as stunning as ever. Retrieved the ScoutHikeWest geocoin.

Like most geocachers, I think this one sits on their list of must do's, it must be the remote location or teasing expectations of something really good, which it is...
I put out a call for companions to accompany me on this epic journey, but alas, no-one was biting. It perhaps was very short notice, and a bit late in the year (Last Day), middle of summer... BUT, the forecast was for a relatively cool day, and so it was for maybe the first 4-5 kms.
I even thought I might see a rain shower , I was prepared... raincoat, dry socks, 2 L of water, etc, you just never know. I felt today was the day, and off I went, not expecting 19.8kms, and an 8hr trek.
I skipped over a few previous logs by cachers, seeing relatively "fast" trek times, but believe me they are an exception, this is definitely not a walk in the forest, atleast the route I hiked, which was done at a no rush pace, accompanied by lots of little side-explorations along the way.

So anyways, I parked at Cowan Railway Station, eager to explore the 'complete' Great North Walk experience, so followed the nice little almost obscure markers through the station and down to the Trailhead.
The walk down begins with rails, steps and walkways, then degenerates into boulders, and copper logs steps, all now showing that errosional feature which creates GIANT STEPS. No problem when your legs are fresh, you'll hate them on the return...

On the way down to Jerusalem Bay, I noted a nice fresh water stream flowing over the track, it's numerous potholes will offer you a refreshing cold wash on the way back.

Once the initial steep descent is over, you'll be following the stream that feeds the river below. The trail is shaded by overhangs and tall tree cover, but a steep cliff falls away down to the stream. Eventually you'll see opportunities to approach the river banks, I got to see both low and high tide's. Having kayaked all along Cowan River, seeing Jerusalem Bay was definitely a highlight, and this just went on all day. Can't wait to paddle it now, seeing all those sandstone cliffs up close, and hidden beaches.

The next landmark you'll come to is a fork, which leads to a small camp area, Gas Only says the sign ($3300 fines!).
At this point I took the low road and came across a 3 ft Goanna. Standing my ground, I got the GoPro recording and he eventually climbed the tree right next to me ! - yes I did utter a few swear words

Apart from this encounter, I saw 2 other people heading the opposing way to me, and a couple snacking on a rock, and one more uber-fit jogger, who should be enjoying retirement, or perhaps he was

Onward I pressed, finding after a small creek crossing, a very VERY hard hill climb to the ridge top was next. On my return journey, I noticed just how steep it really is, it feels and looks like something wild goats would live on !
Here's where the Sun came out...clouds totally gone [:(!] and when I stopped at the top, you would of sworn I had just stepped out of a Sauna, sweat was absolutely pissing outta me [xx(]
And to add to this, now I could smell smoke - not the best place for that, not now, not today please. When views of the surrounding landscape were possible, it was clear that everywhere had a smoke haze. Not making the best conditions for photos today either

See part 2

[green] - Found It on Wed ... at 2:30 PM ...
TFTC! - [blue]gren[/blue] ... [/green]
Total Finds now ... 1114
[blue] This log was posted with CacheSense v4.123, available on Android and BlackBerry ![/blue]

Part 2 of log...

My next waypoint would have me turning eastward, but where was it ?, found a sign, but neglected to realize, the trail is almost hidden behind the sign
I walked towards Brooklyn, searching for maybe 150 m, before turning back.
It also seems all the maps are incorrect about this also. On my return journey I thought about heading N to Brooklyn or even W to the railway corridor, but decided against both, this journey was starting to look quite long, so I stuck with what I already knew. And I also looked forward to a quick dunk in the river, as well as those cold fresh water potholes And so, 2m from this sign, heading east, the track opened up nicely, and I thought I was now getting somewhere fast... But boy, this track twists, and turns, through an ever increasing level of overgrowth. And the result is that its probably DOUBLING the straight line distance to the cache.

The next "4 " kilometers, are long, hot, arm and leg thrashing (not so bad), broken up with a few lookouts you will definitely consider as your TOP10 Ever. Scores of little Cairns to mark the way - I wish they were set distances, I really suffered from a feeling of no progress along this main ridge.

You could say a hike like this one is sometimes a mental challenge, moreso than a physical one.

Let's not forget the HUGE Stone Cairns found on this Ridge, which can ...

Also be logged under GCA. (DAMMIT I MISSED ONE TP5783 'CLIFF'), should I walk out again ? - it'll be a Bloody Cold day in winter, believe me ! [xx(]
There's also few surprises along the way, can't give away everything

Found the Plaque... And cache, after double checking all overhangs of course Also, after seeing so many very thin and brittle overhangs, I was quite warey at times. At GZ in general you will find some of the whitest and most powdery caves, these were another highlight for me, not seen that anywhere else.
With a cave offering nice cool shade, I relaxed and tried to eat some crackers and fruit. No chance on the crackers, just too dry, atleast until I dunked them a bit
All rested, I calculated some distances and times.... 9.9 km each way, approximately 4 hr's each way. Started at 10 am, Finishing at 6 pm.
This has been an epic journey, and I feel I belong to a special group now having done this, it certainly is the epittamy of remote caches, atleast until I hear of another like it.

Celebration Feast at Cowan Shop.... 2x Lime Splices, and 2.5 L Coke mmmmm

Blister and Sore Toes Cure..... Cut toe nails, and wore the second pair of socks starting at the Eastern Ridge Trail.

Worst thing..... Slow progress allllll day.

Best Thing..... The whole experience.


[size=1][blue] This log was posted with CacheSense v4.123, available on Android & BlackBerry ![/blue][/size]

Found at 6:27pm with JordsAU.

Well... what an adventure! JordsAU was adamant he wanted to attempt this one even though we both knew that daylight may become an issue. We had already successfully attempted two moderate-high terrain caches about 20 minutes drive from here and this one proved to be the pinnacle of them all.

We could see it was a long way in from civilisation but we were somewhat deceived by the 3 terrain rating. In we went!

A sneaky walk along the M1 to access the shrub and then it was all on. For the first few hundred metres the spiders were ever-present which meant that the leader needed to carry a stick and wave it in front to ensure we did not go through any cobwebs. It helped for the most part but on one occasion I managed to walk straight through one with my face. Not a pleasant experience when this happens.

We carried on and we were astounded by just how tough this terrain really was. We often thought it would open up a little, it did in some areas but not a hell of a lot.

On four or five occasions we also deviated from the designated track. The boulder markers were definitely a real help but there were times where I believe we got too far ahead of ourselves and went off course. This was slightly stressful when we knew that we still had to get to the cache and back to the car before nightfall.

About two thirds of the way in, we came across a large rock which stood tall above the bushland. We stopped here for about 5-10 minutes to have a breather and also take a few photo's of the landscape. Interesting to note the shapes that appeared in the rocks underfoot on the approach to the large rock.

At this point we were absolutely spent, we reassessed our situation and almost decided that we'd turn back as the lack of daylight would definitely be an issue if we were to carry on. JordsAU said that 'we should be ok'. I told him we really needed to get moving and go hard for the last part of the journey with about 1.1km left.

We ran for 80% of the last stretch, knowing that we were under some real pressure to make it back. We arrived at GZ and I managed to come up with the cache after a five minute search amongst the various levels of rock. It was a huge relief to have made it to the halfway point of the trek. Now to get back before dark.

The return journey proved to be much quicker as we recognised a lot of the points we had previously come across. We ran for the first 5-10 minutes and then we began to feel really sore and fatigued. We only had a few sips of water left for the return so we rationed it as best as we could along the way but this made the journey a whole lot harder as the darkness was slowly beginning to set in.

With only 2km's to go before we reached the end, we began walking at a slower but steady pace because we had nothing left in the tank. As it turns out, we probably had another 30-40 minutes of daylight if we needed it, but it's a good thing we didn't cut it too fine. The last 10 minutes was the most enjoyable as we knew how close we were to reaching the car.

What a day! This was one of the longest and toughest cache journey's we have done and we certainly have no regrets. There are definitely a few things we can do to prepare more for any future adventures but at least we learned a thing or two this time round.

SL - TFTC gren for an old yet magnificent cache. Too good to not give a FP

Found at 6:27 PM with Jase90 and, as we wrote in the log, "now to get back before dark!!". After some change in plans Jase90 and I had our afternoon freed up so we decided it was the perfect opportunity to attempt some geocaches that would help us get closer to completing our Difficulty / Terrain matrix and the Jasmer Challenge. I had plotted out a handful of caches up north that had been on my shortlist for some time. We set off from my place and drove to St Ives and found Cascading Capers to begin with for the Jasmer Challenge and this was followed by Dinosaurs must die over in Mt Muring-gai to fill a Difficulty / Terrain spot. As we finished up at Dinosaurs must die, we were checking the target list to see what else we could hopefully fit in before daylight disappeared. The next closest on the list was Panorama Cache over near Cowan for the Jasmer Challenge (plus being an Old School Cache) and, from the map and terrain rating provided, we thought we should at least check it out. We drove up the M1 and turned around at the Brooklyn interchange so we would stop on the correct side of the freeway. We were sneaky and found an emergency phone near the trail head and backed the car up as far into the bush as we could to avoid any unwanted attention. It was from here, at 4:50 PM, that we embarked on what is probably the most physically exhausting caching expedition I have experienced to date! The walking track was very overgrown in most parts and full of spider webs but where we could we ran because we knew we were racing against the clock to be out of there before the light faded and darkness fell. Thank goodness for the many rock markers which have been left along the route that acted as breadcrumbs because, if they had not been there, we would have struggled to stick to the path and find our way (especially at the speed we were travelling). We passed the large cairn along the way and by the time we reached the large rock outcrop at about 6:00 PM, Jase90 and I were starting to feel rather fatigued but we knew we either had to call it and turn around or press on and push for the finish – we were so close but time was running out. We kept on going, passing the smaller cairn and finally made it to Ground Zero at around 6:20 PM. After a few minutes of searching, with the GPS signal bouncing around a bit, Jase90 made the find and we soon had the Cache In Hand. We quickly performed the signing duties and snapped a couple of photos before returning the cache to its hiding location. Signed Log, Took Nothing Left Nothing. We scrambled back up the rocks and started our run back as we retraced our steps, at least we had a better idea of where we needed to go. Only a few spiders had re-spun their webs across the track so we had a relatively clear way back, except for the overgrowth. The sound of the motorway was a definite relief and we pushed on through until we reached the M1. We arrived back at the car at around 7:40 PM with daylight to spare! From there it was straight to the servo for a few litres of cold drinks to rehydrate before we returned home to put the feet up and rest. Thanks For The Cache gren and for keeping this one alive for as long as you have!

Here are a couple of videos filmed by Jase90 – showing some of the amazing views along the way (

great day walk to a cache with a wonderful view

This Geocache has been on the list since we started Geocaching just over a year ago. Finally everything aligned - geokids at Cub Scouts camp and perfect weather. We set off from Cowan at 9am and found the cache at just after 12 noon. The path from the GNW to the cache is pretty overgrown so a long sleeve shirt is recommended - we didn't wear ours and though survivable would've been much more pleasant. We loved the walk and the fact that it was less crowded, we met 1 person on the trail. The view from the cache is fantastic!! Well worth the effort. I will definitely return!! I am surprised it's not more popular but then I am glad for the peace and quiet so don't tell anyone...

We got back to Cowan at 3pm. Although we had lunch and a few short breaks, I felt a little rushed to get back in time for geokid pick-up. So next time I will allow approx. 7 hours to enjoy the view a little more, take more breaks and enjoy the other viewpoints along the way. Perhaps even a swim in the bay after all that walking.

A favourite point from me. I have said this before of one or two other caches - but this one deserves the same comment - it's exactly what I like to get out of geocaching. The fact that it took me to such a great place I would never have visited otherwise and full of nature and scenery. Many thanks to those who have placed the markers - I added a few more and added an extra stone here and there. And for the waypoints given in one of the logs below - just gave a little more peace of mind that we were headed in the right direction. Then a big thanks for the cache. Took a TB as I don't think this is visited very often so will help move it along.

My favourite cache so far. Such an awesome spot! My brother's first introduction to caching. Little windy on Taffy's rock, but well worth the trek.

What a journey! Ever since saw this cache on the map I have really wanted to go out there and get, but never had the chance and was unsure of where the track started.
Finally school holidays came so mrnoo17, Allturners and I decided a caching run around Berowra followed by a hike to this cache, where we would spend the night... but we spent too long caching earlier in the day, so we only made it to Jerusalem Bay. After finding a spot to roll out the sleeping bags we went exploring around the Bay. None of us had ever been to Jerusalem Bay before but had heard that it was a really nice spot, and these stories weren't wrong! Incredible views and very peaceful.
As it was late-ish in the afternoon the sun was still warm so we decided to go for a Winter's swim. The water was FREEZING but we stayed in and swam to the other side of the bay and back.
Now we were cold we had to light a fire to warm up - even though the signs say a $3300 fine (if caught) - This was the perfect end to a terrific day. We rugged up in the warmest clothes we had with us and jumped into the sleeping bags intending to start early in the morning and hike out to this cache.

After morning light finally came the cold air went away, and it was time for breakfast. After re-energising, we packed up and stuffed everything into our packs and the hike was on.
From Jerusalem Bay we followed the Great North Walk and it began VERY steep. When we finally made to the top of the ridge we were hoping for a track the led in the general direction of GZ and thankfully enough we found one hidden behind a national park sign. Track is a little bit over grown in sections but in all it's not that bad. This walk was a lot longer than first anticipated but we have seen some incredible sights on the way - including some untouched sandstone caves!
It was a great feeling to make it to Taffey's rock and look over the amazing views the Hawkesbury has to offer. The cache wasn't where I expected it to be but was a quick find. Read through the logbook of this old cache, sharing the journeys of all the previous finders.
Thanks gren for hiding a cache out here and maintaining it for all these years, I would have never discovered this magical location otherwise.
One other thing that surprised us was that as we were walking out we met a couple on there way in to Taffey's rock. Was not expecting to see another person on this trail, maybe it gets walked more often than I thought.
Favourite for an amazing experience, if only there were more caches involving a decent walk like this.

P.S Thanks zargfinders for the cairn markers, they worked great.

What a brilliant experience! As Seaeagles mentioned, this cache had been on the to do list for quite some time. After a lovely sleep next to a naturally fueled radiator (no we were not camping next to a fire) and our freezing swim, we were more than ready for the hard slog up the hill to get to the ridge which the cache is on. Once off the great north walk the scenery was truly spectacular. I expected the walk to be mundane like the walk into the pindar caves, but there were breathtaking views and some of the finest white sandstone caves I have seen. Also s good vantage point about halfway along the trail on a table like rock was a highlight of our walk in. Once we reached the cache I made the find this time. Had lunch overlooking the hawkesburry river and ocean. TFTC !!!!! Truly magnificent

This entry was edited by mrnoo17 on Saturday, 12 July 2014 at 11:39:23 UTC.

Found this one this afternoon whilst out on the calendar gap and DT rating cache hunt which brought me back out Cowan.

As CJ is away, I did this one solo on the way back. The month has ticked over to winter and so has the weather. It is much cooler out here now, but bushwalking and geocaching are great ways to warm up.

I left Cowan station early and heading down the Great North Walk trail. Easily made it to Taffy's Rock track in less than an hour and the GZ in less than 2 hours. I took in the views after finding the cache and having a couple of sandwiches and fruit before heading back through the dense trail. I got a little scratched up wearing light clothing, as I was barreling along. I stopped to take several pics at the 'Top of the World' and the checked out the 2 trigs on the trail.

The views are spectacular and photos don't really do the walk justice. Jerusalem Bay was gorgeous on a very sunny day. I made it back to Cowan station in bang on 4 hours. I really enjoyed this walk. It was great exercise and I was surprised to see several others on the trail on a weekday.

Anyway, you've gotta love an excuse to get out into the bush and find a cache. Thanks Gren for your cache. SL TNLN TFTC

What a great walk today! Had this on the list for a while as there are not many 3/3's around. We left Cowan station at 10am and got to the sign/path intersection at 11. The path was much better than we expected. We expected a bit more of a bush bash! We arrived at GZ at 12.30 and took 15 minutes to find the cache. It's in good condition. We took the geocoin as it's rested enough. Had some lunch looking at the stunning view.

Left at 1pm, and slowed down on the way back. Got back to Cowan station by 3.30. So 5 hours walking, 15 min hunt and 15 min rest. Great day. TFTC.

We had been looking at this one for a while so when at C62's event in May Zargfinders said they also too where keen a plan was hatch and C62 said he was up for another trip and confirmed the "easier" track in which we had thought was there based on google maps but just needed a little more past knowledge to park safely and pick up the track. After a few email swaps and with Tyrless joining the group who wanted to pick up the trig after GZ a day and time was set. The weather was great not being too hot and not a cloud in the sky.We set off at about 9am on the track and then crossed over the GNW track at the sign post and continued eastly on the track behind the sign. The track is a little closed in at points but its well enough formed and marked with cairns most of the way so you really don't have to search. Long pants and a long sleeve top are preferable if you want to avoid a few scratches and prickles but its not essential. The track goes up and down a bit as well as snakes side to side so the distance takes a while to come down. We had stops at Cole and Edwards trigs along with the Top of the World with its crazy paving. The kids had a climb on the old trigs and also gave them a hug. We had our final stop before GZ on some solid rocks with some great caves underneath. The rocks on top also had some cravings but where a little hard to make out all the images. Once we closed in on GZ the kids raced a head to make the find while the rest of us took in the views and sat down for lunch and a drink. Tyreless was the exception as he head off for the Cliff trig which we could see from GZ. Our trip back was quicker with less stops and exploring. A great old cache and nice to go old school geocaching and to share with fellow cachers. TFTC. A fav point from us.

At Calypso62's last event Bella at Waggy expressed interest in this cache so we decided to do it together. Tyreless, who had already done the hike, decided to tag along so that made a great company of four teams.

Today was the day so we left home at 7:30 and met at a carpark near Berowra at 8:30. We took two cars and parked at the emergency telephone spot to head down to the cache.

The entire walk to the cache took just under 3 hours from this spot, but that included semi-frequent stops of about ten minutes to admire the scenery (AWESOME views), take photos, have a snack etc. Two places that really stood out along the walk were the 'top of the world' rock - AMAZING views - and the honeycomb like sandstone formation that is under a flat section of the rock. We also got to 'find' our first two trigs. Very interesting stuff.

Once we arrived at the GZ Tyreless left us to continue on to the Cliff Trig and we had a very leisurely lunch in just over an hour. We enjoyed spotting him at several spots in his walk. We also saw a mysterious 'pirate ship' from this point, some planes flying overhead and something that looked like a group of dolphins in the distance.

The cache itself was a quite easy find (Tyreless did point us in the right direction though before he left, and C62 had already found it too so we weren't expecting trouble) and we signed the log and swapped GCs.

It was then another leisurely but just a bit faster (an hour and three quarters) walk back to the car.

Thanks to Calypso62, Bella at Waggy and Tyreless for helping organise and coming today - a fantastic experience was had by the whole team.

Oh -- and we left MANY cairn markers along the way so hopefully no cachers will get lost!!

Oh - and favourite point added

Nice day so why not?

Saw the Campbells Crater track on OSM and started my journey from there. I took things leisurely on the way in, stopping for pics and generally walking at a slow pace. It's a brilliant walk with great vistas both north and south. Passed the old trig cairns. The single track is a bit overgrown in places but you never really lose it. There's a fascinating hill you pass on the way (maybe 1km from gz) with tile-like patterns in the rock.

Took an hour 45 mins to get to gz. Soon found the cache. The panoramic views from above gz are indeed spectacular.

Headed back and a couple of hundred metres from gz passed a fellow out for a walk. A brief chat and then I quick marched back and was at the F3 in exactly an hour. Thanks gren.

Wow! Another OLD cache. When offered the chance to head to Sydney for some caching it was the sensible thing to do, and what an opportunity to keep the August Streak going (as well as the personal one!) Having been on some of Cookie's bushwalks, and with Pathfinders I decided to head out for this historic cache as well. I had imagined that there would be more of a trail, but it only seemed like an animal trail in places - and certainly some scat here and there. Will have to log those historic trig stations as well. We headed out to Cliff TP to try and get a good photo of it, but Cookie had to stop to field a phone call - PAF, so it was just on dark when we got there. Well and truly dark by the time we got back to this one. There was still some lights visible to the East and SouthEast.
Even tho it is winter it wasn't too cold, and I had my jacket tied around my waist until stopping here.
Having had some sustenance and signed the log it was time to head on back to the car. Think it was about 6 hours in all.
Nick Starrs Starr and Hedge Hopper TBs thru.
TFTC gren, well worth the effort!

Wow! Another OLD cache. When offered the chance to head to Sydney for some caching it was the sensible thing to do, and what an opportunity to keep the August Streak going (as well as the personal one!) Having been on some of Cookie's bushwalks, and with Pathfinders I decided to head out for this historic cache as well. I had imagined that there would be more of a trail, but it only seemed like an animal trail in places - and certainly some scat here and there. Will have to log those historic trig stations as well. We headed out to Cliff TP to try and get a good photo of it, but Cookie had to stop to field a phone call - PAF, so it was just on dark when we got there. Well and truly dark by the time we got back to this one. There was still some lights visible to the East and SouthEast.
Even tho it is winter it wasn't too cold, and I had my jacket tied around my waist until stopping here.
Having had some sustenance and signed the log it was time to head on back to the car. Think it was about 6 hours in all.
Nick Starrs Starr and Hedge Hopper TBs thru.
TFTC gren, well worth the effort!

1900 GAFF1 (Well, I had been PAST here a few times in the past). This cache had piqued my interest when I was first investigating what geocaching was all about (back in 2006) while staying with my sister at Crosslands. You see, I had been out to Cliff TP 3 times, back in 1983 and 1984. And I'd even left a log book there in a tin container! (Maybe a precursor to my geocaching tendencies The word was, at that stage that the pink bucket was in a SAD state of affairs, and I was keen to get out and do something about it - but family matters took precedence!
Finally had a chance to get back out there. Certainly not my tin out there at Cliff, as mine was just tin plate soldered.
Good coordinates for Panorama, and left a Correct Site Marker.
Took: a pathtag (thanks), and Homer TB and Smokey. Didn't see the other one.
Certainly not a cache I would by myself so late, so it was great to have MVMB along for the walk - two headlights are always better than one! Left the car @ 1530, back @ 2130. Already had enough caches for the Old School Challenge, so it was a bonus. Think I will add it to the Challenging Cache book mark, rather than the Night Caching one tho it certainly would be appropriate.
Brought through for mileage: 3 Bros, Aust Light Houses, Beagle Bixby, B 2 B ingot, Iconic Bridges, Just Monkeying Around Oz, Little Moo, PAP, Play Well, Trackabulldog, cache critters Baa, Neigh Neddy, and Oink, and trackable shirt.
TFTC gren

#1302
What a fabulous day this was. Great company, great views, a great cache in a remote location and great trig locations, especially Cliff Trig. I came home very stiff and sore from the adventure but SO glad I had the opportunity to participate. Thanks to Baktrak in particular for the invitation to join the team and thanks to my fellow expeditioners for a great day!! It's a favourite from me!

A challenging walk in good company.
I found Panorama about 18 months ago. Then we'd intended to push on to Cliff trig but were well and truly worn out from leaving too late and pushing too hard. Panorama was as far as we got. So although we'd made it to this great spot, there was a remaining sense that we'd been beaten and the job was only half done.
A few months ago. some esteemed caching friends were making noises about a walk to Panorama. I jumped at the chance and plans were made to go the whole way. This time, we did it!
Thanks to all the team, Calypso62, the two Canaries, Purplepeopleater, Yurt & son and Alfyboy.

#1833 - Another Alfyboy Adventure - AAA (with a team this time)

After a chance email/chat with Yurt about this cache, more interest started and a team was put together. The months past and today was the day to meet up and test our fitness levels. After arriving and waiting for the latecomer (you know who you are ) we drove to a parking area and started our journey.

While a few ups and downs were expected, the terrain was rather good. On the way we stopped for rests and catchups at Cole Trig, then Edwards Trig, before making the final attempt to Panorama. Managed to see a huge turtle as big as a 747 at least (well a rock with rather unusual patterns anyway). Finally the last steps were made and the lead group found the plaque as TC Jr and I raced to find the cache. Yeah sure I 'let' him find it. It was his birthday after all

We found the cache, signed the logs and some TB's were dropped off. Took some photos and then embarked on the final Trig Cliff. I heard rumors that some people wanted to experience AAA, so I took the lead and and managed to bash my way with trusty GPSr and WP's (thanx Blossom*) through a range of scraping, scracthing, rustling terrain. I'd like to think they had alfyboy 'fun' Made it and then had lunch, and a good rest while enjoying the awesome views!

We then made the trek home again, a little slower maybe, and managed to make it back to the cars as I ran out of water. Overall it was just around 7 hours walking and my GPSr said 12.4kms. Rather successful day and thanx to all the team as mentioned in below logs. I had a great day. TFTC

This all began as a discussion about going to this cache as an adventure, eventually a date was settled. Now, to get permission. Done and dusted. Oops! A slight snag. My youngest son's twelvth birthday! Permission again? NO!!! Oh, only if he can come. Okay. Good too go!

So after, eventually, getting to the starting point. It was a short drive to the start of the walk.

From here the were many long and short, but never too steep ascents and descents. But, plenty of distance to be covered.

We stopped of at the Cola and the Edwards trig on the way for a quick photo. But on and on we pushed to the cache, where from the plaque and mad scramble was had. My youngest made the birthday find.

From he we madly bush bashed on to the Cliff trig where we enjoyed a well earned luch and rest before the return journey began.

I often find bush bashes easier on the return, but as always the hills were harder!?!

So all up my son got to find the cache, on his birthday and it was placed before he was born!?!

It has to be a favorite!

TFTC.

This cache had been planned by me for probably a couple of years but I never managed to get there. Finally an assault team was assembled consisting of Purplepeopleater, Yurt (me + geoteen), Team Canary, Calypso62, alfyboy and Baktrak. We named this group SPYCCAB (one member sjamp was the S from our FTF on "Too Shy of Enigmatic" so came along in spirit).

The newly discovered F3 Campbell's Crater track entrance made a big difference in cutting out the down and up to and from Jerusalem Bay which I'd done years ago on the Great North Walk. We soon came to the intersection with the GNW and crossed where the sign was. This track was famous for being overgrown but the first 500m looked like it had been recently maintained. A nice walk saw us at Cole trig with great views nearby and we pushed on to Edwards trig and then across the last stretch to Taffy's Rock. Somewhere there we bypassed "Top of the World" and its unusual tortoise shell patterned sandstone. I climbed it for great views on the return.

Soon we were at Taffys - the coords lead you straight to one of the most dangerously placed plaques - you can't actually look at it without risking a slide down the rock - admittedly not a fatal height. The FTF hounds were released (for a 12 year old cache) and soon Team Canary junior came up with the find, much to the chagrin of alfyboy! We got to the overhang and took turns signing the log. It was great to knock off an April 2001 cache and fill a gap in the Jasmer challenge (find a cache placed every month since caching began in May 2000).

From there we decided we'd had it too easy with our short cut and pushed on to Cliff trig which was visible from Taffy's some 650m away (as the crow, not the emu, flies). From there it was a pretty heavy bushbash in places with the odd bit of track appearing. Had a great lunch and relax at Cliff trig (which has a visitors' book) before the return journey. Some of those hills seemed a lot steeper on the way back.

Pleased to retrace our steps and revisit all the features on the way finally getting back to the F3 at 330pm after leaving there at 830am. The bushbash took a fair bit of extra time but was well worth it for the views.

A great day out and now the muscles are rather tired. Thanks to all for organising especially Baktrak. Why aren't there more caches like this out there? It was just one smiley in seven hours and in that time we could have found 50 mint tins but I wouldn't have written this much in total about all of them!

Thanks. A favourite of course.
(Oh and 189 days...)

This entry was edited by Yurt on Sunday, 05 May 2013 at 22:57:39 UTC.

An excellent caching adventure and some truly spectacular views.
Thanks Baktrak for organising the day!
I left a bunch of TBs and a new pathtag for the next cacher who breaks free of the urban micros and gets out in the true spirit of geocaching.

Gets a favourite for the walk and the great company of team SKYCCAB:)
SL TFTC

Awesome.

A fine autumn day for a walk. I woke while it was still dark. I'd been looking for the right day to take this challenge and here it was.

Came in from Cowan, down to Jerusalem Bay then the steep climb up. The air was still morning fresh and I had the trail pretty much to myself.

My GPSr had a map that showed the track and it proved to be accurate. I was never at risk of getting lost but the little piles os stones were always a welcome reminder I was on the right track.

The path out from the Great North Walk is mostly level and not too hard. It is overgrown in parts by shrubs which can be pushed away without too much trouble.

It took me 3 hours to get to Taffy's rock. The views are fabulous, out to Lion Island and Broken Bay.

There's also some rock carvings (footprints and a fish).

It took me ages to find the cache (a 2 litre clear sistema, not a 5 litre pink bucket) but reading previous logs I saw it was at the bottom of the rock and I had been searching on top.

Read the old logs and signed it.

The return journey took 2.45 hours and my legs still feel it now, 3 hours later. But all in all a great adventure and a great "box-in-the-bush" type cache. A favourite for me.

Just arrived home from a 17km hike round trip to get this little gem. Wheezed my way up the hill from jerusalem bay, but the hard work was yet to start. Despite the warm weather, I huddled up into my fleece to protect my arms from the scratches and off I went. Found big cairns and little ones to guide my way. Got confused at a couple of points, but after a quick look round, a little pile of stones would be spotted to help me on my way. There were glimpses of lovely views on the way, but at the end the view was amazing - best yet in Sydney!! Almost forgot about the cache...but that was found with ease. TFTC x

Great views, but it took me a week to recover. TFTC

This entry was edited by TimboC on Monday, 07 November 2011 at 04:03:50 UTC.

This has been on my close-to-home list for quite a while and looked like a bit of a challenge. Walked in with TimboC, about 8km by the route we took, and stopped off at acouple of trigs on the way. As the afternnoon passed, we had to pick the pace up a bit to make sure we'd have enough light and that probably added to the muscular trauma that was starting to niggle as we left Edwards trig.
The track disappears in places as it gets very little use. Thank goodness for the little marker cairns. I restacked a couple and future cachers will hopefully maintain them or even build a few more.
Finally we arrived at Panorama and what an aptly named cache it is. Found the Taffy's rock plaque and the cache, nearby, soon after. And then the trek out. We could barely stumble by the time we got to our pick-up point a couple of hours later. Anyone planning this should embark early enough to do it at a more leisurely pace.
So, all's well that ends. It was worthwhile but I doubt we'll do anything this tiring for a long while.
TFTC

I'd wanted to walk out to this cache since we did a bushwalk from Cowan to Brooklyn last summer but we decided summer was a bit hot for the hike and these beautiful autumn days seemed the perfect time. In fact, it was a perfect day! As we pulled up at Cowan, there was a huge crowd of walkers and we were a bit worried that the track would be crowded but luckily, they headed to the west and we set off at 8am to the east and down to Jerusalem Bay. It was a pretty easy walk along the Great North Walk track really although the down and up was a bit tiring on the knees! Not long and we were at the turn-off point where the tall growth had us walking single file but the track was easy to follow (especially with strike-a-light in the lead - just follow his back!) We passed the trig points and Top of the World, taking heaps of photos along the way. Lunch at about mid-day at the cache was fabulous. What a great place And then we walked back which seemed quicker (well, it was, only 3 hours to get back and that was taking things very easy, still stopping for a break a few times)This is an easy walk if you take the day and it's just fabulous, thoroughly recommended.

This entry was edited by blossom* on Sunday, 22 May 2011 at 10:36:53 UTC.

Got a phone call from Blossom that she was planning this one. Debated a while after having the lurgy recently but decided to take the challenge. The crowd at the starting point at Cowan was amazinng. We think they were all Oxfam enthusiasts training for their big walk in August. So pleased they they weren't going our way although a few dozen people ahead of us on the track along Govett's Ridge out to the cache might have cleared the path a bit.

Strike a Light was our tour leader and did the navigation and cairn maintenance while waiting for us tail end charlies to join him. Blossom scampered over the rock slopes like a gazelle. Made us feel like a couple of old geriatrics.

After about 3 and a half casual hours we reached Taffys Rocks. Amazing!!! Has to be the best views we have seen in Kuringai Chase NP.

After the caching duties sat and had a relaxing lunch highlighted by Lindt chocolate desert.

The return journey seemed so much easier and reached Cowan in under three hours with a few rest breaks and photo stops.

Thoroughly recommended. The views are fantastic and we were lucky to have Strike a Light there to provide navigational guidance and Blossom for informative commentary to keep us entertained.

What more can I say but super fantasic, great easy walk along the ridge with super great views, had a super time with with Team Lego and Blossom. TFTC

Great day for finding this cache. Been trying to get here for some time - but went out today with the Sydney Bushwalkers - finally.

Great location and nothing and left nothing.

Many thanks to gren.

Yes. It is my name on the rock outcrop. No regrets.

So, by definition then, the "rather good" name "chiselled into the rock" would also constitute as graffiti. I find it hypocritical to admire one piece of chiselled rock whilst shaming another piece of writing when they are both "graffiti".

Got within cooee of this one, but my original plan for a 3-4 person dedicated cache-attack was (happily) converted into a 7 person hike from Cowan to Brooklyn. As a result, we only made it to the despicably defaced "Top of the World" for lunch before turning on our heels for the onward journey to Brooklyn Dam where we set up camp.

The cache has waited 8 years for me to show up and I've been planning an assault for 7, I'm sure it'll be there in another year.

It's been a while between caches for me, I'm hoping gratuitous graffiti isn't par for the course these days.

Fantastic day out to find this cache.
Left Cowan at 0800, picked up "watch the tide" and then headed off on the big walk to Panorama.
The waypoints from Geomatica were excellent, especially the turn off from the GNW.

I'll be adding my route to the open street map (osm.org) so people can download the map. The track itself is straight forward, well formed and has an easy grade to it.

Found a couple of surprises along the way, one being an inscription on a random rock in a random location (S33 35.2 10 E151 13.239) that reads,
Brett Williams
5.10.25
The craftsmanship is rather good, looks like it was chiselled in to the rock. On a hunch I looked under this rock to see if Brett had left anything for me - no luck.
Since we're talking graffiti, it was disappointing to find a geocaches GEO-name scratched in to a prominent rock outcrop. Shame shame.

The other notable sign is the plaque to Taffy on the rock above the cache - look up as you climb back to the top.

Got to panorama at 11:30 and then back to Cowan at 15:00.
Stats from the GPS,
5 hrs 15 mins moving, 7 hrs 13 total, 18.16km round trip. Not sure what I did standing still for 2hrs! Probably took too many photos.
BTW - for other solo walkers, I was pleased to have constant, full strength mobile phone signal on the nextg network the entire time.

From the cache, took a toy with black and blue links, left a flipper keyring. Picked up a TB.
Thanks for an awesome day out!

trackable dip

Today was the day to launch an assult on this cache. Arrived at Cowan for 7am to mist in the air and the valley below. Crossed the tracks and the motorway below and made my decent, which was very plesant as there was lots of fauna present and the sun was not penetrating into the valley.

On the way down, I knocked off "Watch the Tide" cache which needs accurate planning!!! This detour was intentional as I was not looking forward to the accent. Ye Gods!!! Give me strength. With, what at times is a 2:1 gradient, I felt good getting to the top in under an hour. This was a good time for a morning tea break at the Great North Walk (GNW) trail log station and also to watch the GNW in full swing. HEAPS of people doing the trek from Brooklyn to Cowan.

With some food in my belly, it was off to my pre-determined route of waypoints. In the prep. for this cache, I determined waypoints for the top of the ridge that takes you out to the cache. As it turns out, this did not differ that much from the actual path that is there. I was about 20m from the turn off from the GNW to the path (see below for coords).

There is heaps to see and hear on the way out to GZ. It took me about 3 hours to get there also. I came across two very old trig stations along the way. These would have been used in some of the first triangulation surveys in and around Sydney in the late 1890's to early 1900's (see below for coords). There was a great "Top of the World" spot also where the views were magic. I stopped here for 10 minutes to have a mixed fruit and nuts break also (see below for coords).

Finally, I arrived at GZ and felt beside myself. I could not believe that from the turn off from the GNW to GZ, I had not seen another person and that this place was all mine. I found the cache with not much difficulty and sat myself down to read through the logs of all those that have come before me. With the log duties completed, it was time for lunch. I elevated my position to a slight overhang that offered me a full panoramic view, and settled in for a meager lunch of Vegemite sandwiches, two oranges and some tea. I found that taking my boots and socks off to let the feet breath was an experience within itself also.

It felt such a shame to leave this place, but it was 12pm and I needed to get back. Retraced my steps and finally arrived back at Cowan Station for 4pm.

The path (to GZ) is very well marked with rocks and stone piles. Some of the vegetation has closed in and is about waist to shoulder height at times (I'm 6' 4").

Here is a summary of points I logged along the way that may also assist others in planning their assult on this cache.

* Turn off from GNW: S33° 35.020 E151° 11.728
* Trig Station 1: S33° 35.108 E151° 12.387
* Trig Station 2: S33° 35.129 E151° 13.048
* Top of the World: S33° 34.966 E151° 12.831

TFTC
Took Sevbo's Sevabo National Park Geocoin as it has been in the cache for 16 months. Time it moved on.
Took unactivated GC, thank you very much for that!!!
Left Zed TB

[This entry was edited by geomatica on Thursday, August 27, 2009 at 1:44:22 AM.]

TB drop

After watching the tide a little while we’d carried on along the excellent Great North Walk track. The head of Jerusalem Bay is a pleasant spot indeed with good views down the inlet. From here it was time for the 180m or so ascent up to the top of Govett Ridge. Tree filtered views of Cowan Creek and the rumble of freeway traffic awaited us at the top. Now, we’d checked out the topo map and no track is marked to the cache area, however there was a glimpse of one on Google Earth. Actually the sure fire indicator of the existence of a track was the number of visits to the cache. Not too many cachers are keen on pushing through 4km or so of this sort of scrub. Soon we’d found the track we sought and we were in business.

It was quite a good path, somewhat overgrown in places but easy to follow for the most part. Talk about spider city though! Half of Altaire cannot abide arachnids however she managed to carry on bravely with gritted teeth. Deciding on a red zone of half a metre, we counted 154 spiders on the outward journey which required some measure of evasive action. The track continued along the undulating ridge with here and there some very spectacular viewpoints to take in the excellent vistas to either side. About a kilometre in, we passed a party of bushwalkers on their return journey from a nice pinnacle about 2km short of our particular goal. I think we were each surprised to see someone else on this track – good as it is it doesn’t seem overly well used.

Soon enough we were at our destination and whilst partaking of a late luncheon and carrying out the cache duties in the autumn sunshine we also took in the marvellous views. These were particularly good to the north east, marching into the haze beyond Lion Island. It was then time for the return trip. It’s incredible how quickly orb spiders rebuild their webs – very industrious fellows indeed. This is an excellent cache location and easily reached via a very scenic and not particularly demanding walk. Highly recommended. We removed a couple of unsuitable food items from the cache, leaving an unactivated coin and a girl’s necklace. Also dropped off the Sevabo National Park geocoin.

PS: Thanks to Short Circuits for their cache maintenance. It’s good to see these sort of caches kept alive.

Grabbed a couple of Muggle mates and we set off from the station in the dark just after 6:00. Nice easy walk down to the bay but the up hill after that was a wakeup call. That behind us the rest was pretty easy going. The only down side was that we had to put up with light showers on the way out which left as saturated from the undergrowth, and lessened the views a little, but none the less thoroughly enjoyable. When we got to GZ the rain eased long enough to get a great view. The return trip was fine and we got back to the station just after 11:00. Thanks for a truly wonderful cache.

Took: Alien Autopsy TB
Left: QT Pie TB

TFTCSL

Teamed up with Robo64 for a quick find before the sun came out.
Took an hour to get to GZ, and 45min to get back...to Fishermans Beach, where the boat and some cool water soothed our scratched legs and weary muscles.

Took nothing, left a rather large snake skin that was about a metre above the cache..take care

Spectacular views, from Lion Island to the Hawkesbury River, down to Cottage Point, where we stopped off on the way back for sustanance

Went after the cache with SSPACK
Attacked from Fishermans beach
1 hour and the cache was in our hands
another 45 minutes and we were back at the beach
Took nothing Left snake skin and Alien Autopsy travel bug
Thanks for the great views

Wow! This cache lives up to its reputation!
This was a serious bush bash my feet and legs lay testament to that. Left Cowan at 0700 returned 1500.
If you're into bush walking this cache is a must do, I'll let the photos do the talking.
Was lucky enough to find a rock carving of a flathead, what a bonus.
Thanks Gren.
Regards Philma.

Replaced the leaky pink bucket with a Systema box. Dried out the swaps and added a few more. There is now no excuse not to visit this fine cache.

Well this one has been on my to-do list for a long time now but I had been waiting until the weather was a little cooler and hey, why not make it my 426th find on the 1 year anniversary of my first ever cache find.

We started by leaving the Car at Cowan station and began our trek along the Great North Walk and in 2 1/2 hours we were at GZ where nearby i noticed an interesting plaque giving me an indication as to how old this track actually is, found the cache quickly and had a bite to eat whilst soaking up the great views and the perfect July weather before we continued our way down to Brooklyn to catch the train back to Cowan.

A shame that the cache isn't located at the end of the track where I could see a distant 3rd stone Trig but i enjoyed the walk so much that I plan to come back and finish the walk.

A great cache and the most rewarding cache I have ever found despite what my feet think after the 19km walk.

Top spot Gren, its a shame you haven't hidden anymore

Rated: for Overall Experience

This is well worth doing!

I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive as the topomap had no path to this one but had planned to walk along the ridge. When I got to the point where I planned to leave the GNW, there was a path in front of me (see waypoint). Ironically it is right behind a signpost which ignores it.

The path all the way to GZ is fine - someone has laid a lot of small cairns along it. Along the way are two large cairns which look like old trigs for the navigation buffs out there.

At GZ the view to Lion Island is heart stopping, one of the best around.

At the cache, good news, bad news. The double bagged new note book is in good condition. Bad news, the swaps are pretty soggy and in need of drying out on a summers day - maybe even a new cache?

GREAT LOCATION GO AND DO IT!

Have had this one on the hitlist for quite some time. Set off today with former flatmate Anita, and a few slick tips from a former scout leader in the area. Rather than leave from Cowan station, we were clued in to a shortcut under the F3. Contact me if anyone wants details or needs to know why this shortcut realy requires a skateboard and about 100m of rope.

Set off from the car at about 10:30am and made our way out along the ridgelines, ignoring the scratchy bushes and the lost skin off my knees incurred during our shortcut. Where does a 31 year old guy get a skateboard anyway?! With much guesswork and some hard slog we arrived at GZ at about 1:30pm to be greated by some spectacular views of Cowan Creek, Lyon Island, and for miles around ipm and n every direction. A short search revealed the water logged cache and it's sneaky little gaurdian. TN and LN, but did leave a 2nd ziplock bag for the log.

We left GZ at about 2:20 and making good time, we made it back to the car at about 4:30pm, bringing to an end one of the best caches I've done in a long time. While the cache container was waterlogged, the views from Taffy's rock were worth the price of admission alone! Cheers Gren!

Before setting out we were concerned about the reported snakes on the trail, but now that the walk is over we realise that there was nothing really to worry about. Great walk for a perfect day - this one could be unpleasant in the heat/humidity of summer.

We would never have normally chosen the trail in, but its great to also try minor paths. That said, I can report that the trail must have been made by Hobbits counting by the number of times my tall frame was jabbed in the head by the bloody trees. The panorama at the end is worth the effort and it doesn't need to take all day.

What a day!! Left Cowan train station around 10:30am with 2 friends hyped for their first geo-cache.

Couple of indecisions about which tracks to take along the way. Managed to always take the right tracks first time. Took around 3 hours to arrive at the geo-cache. Searched around for 10mins before spotting the cache.

Enjoyed rummaging around the stash before a quick drink and set off home.

Crawled back to Cowan Station absolutely exhausted around 5:30pm. Think I may have scared the two geo-newbies off any future caching

Great walk, make sure you wear old clothes.

Ahoy Gren,

A wicked walk for a pirate on a solo run. Me thought that I would run out of time starting late at 1130, but had the good winds behind me to get back by 1630.
Ye olde bucket had a pool of water a top it. I have laid it on its side to stop any moisture entering.
Took a glow stick and left aroma tablets, door viewer, tissues and tea bags.
Great walk with excellent views.

Blackbeard [B)]

Was not allowed to do an all day geo cache as jobs at home were pending!! So decided on a 1/2 hour boat trip up the Hawkesbury followed by a 40 minute hike up the gully from Fishermans Beach. Found cache ok at 7:30am. Great views, took some good photos of Broken Bay and Cowan Waters. Back home at 9:15am 3 hours after setting off. Left pack of screws, took candle and travel bug KISS ME.

GeoRover.. you should of kept going.... you were so close....

A long walk with the good company of Leek and George1 of Ideology infamey..

we started out early but soon ground to a halt on the first uphill stage...To the cry of George's "Not Far Now!!!" we plodded up the hill, and up the hill and up the hill..

Then out along the ridge to some of the best views of Broken Bay that I have ever seen..

A few more ups and downs and we were there.

Paid our respects to Taffy and onto the search, recovered a very waterlogged cache.... It was FULL to the brim and from the smell had been for a while, So being the responible cachers that we are we emptied out the water, took all the destroyed swaps out and managed to sgrouge up between us some replacement gear. I took the Screwdriver kit thou.. always handy. Left a 36squadron keyring and a green resus mask key ring.

Had lunch and started the return trip... Leek's biggest concern was "Will I be home for the rugby match?"

Left Cowan Station at about 7.45am got back there at 3.15pm

A cache I recommend for all to do.....

PS The fires did make it right out along the ridge... but the cache was safe from fire... just not water

[This entry was edited by Swampgecko on Sunday, October 12, 2003 at 3:45:28 AM.]

Rated: for Overall Experience