Newcastle Coastal Tour Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
By Big Matt and Shell on 24-Aug-17. Waypoint GC7B6V6

Find #1852TFTC. In town for work, and went out early this morning to skip the heat and the traffic, unfortunately everyone else had the same idea, and the baths were packed by 6AM (Plus the ocean baths were closed for cleaning).Came back this evening to finish the additional waypoints I missed this morning. SquiresSquire

this was a fun one. Ive been filling in my grid with a focus on the 3x3x3 challenge so got to find a few of those today while also filling in my 4/3.5 grid spot

TFTC! 14 September 2024 7:39:26PM 8470 thanks to Big Matt and Shell for the cache! This one started later in the afternoon as we enjoyed the lovely weather todays lots of stops and side tracks meant that we completed the last few at sunset and in the dark. Loved the coast line here!

Newcastle to merewether has some of the best beaches in the world, beautiful soft white sand an amazing ocean baths. Very fortunate that they are still not too crowded and are nice and clean.Travelling by foot and with limited time I was able to visit the break wall, Nobbys and merewether baths yesterday and today.This virtual is just one of many reasons to come back for another visitAdding a log for my progress to date

Managed to walk the series today and find some others on the way as well. Lunch at Dixon Park Beach was also a winner. Thanks Big Matt and Shell for the virtual

Clearing OM attribute after changes

I visited today and there are no works going on at Merewether Baths.I have also updated the logging requirements for The Ocean baths given the refurbishment.

The latest geocacher to attempt tells me that the Merewether baths location is blocked off for construction, I need to check it out.

I have been slowly chipping away at this virtual for the last few months. Being a local, I had the opportunity to spread this over time, especially with how crazy life has been for me lately. It was good to revisit all these spots the last months from a geocachers perspective and not one of a local. I have been extremely excited to finally finish cache today as it completes a spot in my D/T grid. All other answers were sent to CO. TFTC!

This was a quick flying trip to Newcastle to see my wife's favourite Aussie band, the Hoodoo Guru's, at a good old fashioned hot and sweaty loud pub gig at the Bar on the Hill at Newcastle Uni. The red eye flights were really cheap and best of all, they provided me with some caching time around Newcastle before an arvo nap and the gig.This virtual was the target cache for the day, with all other caches found today somewhat incidental to this one. My muggle wife humoured me with a walk out to the lighthouse, and then joined me for the next few waypoints before deciding to get a pedicure at a shopping centre, leaving me to collect some clues. Late in the afternoon, before dinner, i slipped out to grab the last two unfound clues, which i had avoided early as there was no parking. The Newcastle coastline proved very interesting during my tour. I collected the bonus point at the first waypoint, when a freighter left the harbour. There was some commotion on the beach at Nobby's when a shark alarm chased the swimmers from the water. I regret not taking my swimmers to the Bogey Hole, but ended up making up for it with a swim at the Mereweather baths. The Guru's gig was excellent and so was this virtual, so add a crooked favourite point to the collection here. Thanks Matt and ShellPete#7,791

This one made the list because of it's unique D/T for a virtual. That said, you definetly earn the difficulty due to the amount of stages across Newcastle. I did the stages in reverse order. Thankfully, parking wasn't too bad near any of the stages. The ocean pools are really neat. I was short on time so I jogged out to the end of the breakwater. Thanks for the tour of town.

Owner needs to look at WP4 since the upgrades to the area. It has taken away what is mentioned at that point

With eight waypoints and a significant distance between them all, regardless of walking or driving, I think it's to be expected it would take a while to finish this virtual However, I humbly submit my application for the "longest time to complete the Newcastle Coastal Tour". Just over five years ago I was on a summer road trip through NSW and for the first time visited Newcastle. This was really the only geocache I super wanted and we invested a couple of hours into collecting what was required at the waypoints. What an enjoyable adventure. However, I managed to not take the required photo at just the eighth and final waypoint. I could have committed violent acts against myself for such an oversight.Just five years, but it has felt like a long time. With never a reason to visit Newcastle (I hope that's not rude to say) I just haven't been back and all that time I have wanted to return and take the damn photo at the Mereweather baths already. So it's felt like a lot longer. In all that time relationships have come and gone, situations changed, and even my geocaching device is now entirely updated. But I'm required back in the area!Next week I have two days of work in the area, so why not fly down early and do some geocaching over the weekend? And of course meet up with a local! Just after landing at the airport and driving a hire car, Big Matt called and asked what my plans were. My response, paraphrased was "no bloody idea". Which, is a pretty classic level of planning on my part. After meeting up in Mereweather, I was keen to head here and waste not a moment more in finalising the find. But, he was kind enough to offer a tour of the town and I was quickly distracted by some other finds.After enjoying Newcastle again, but this time less of the coast, we headed for Mereweather. Which, I still have an issue believing is pronounced "merry-weather" and not "mere-weather". It's handy having a local and indeed, the CO drive and navigate for finding a park was easy and convenient. He wasn't silly enough to follow me out to the co-ordinates.For all those years I have planned to plank on the block to take my selfie in my usual style. But today it is hammering with a coastal wind. And the tide is in. Conditions are not great and as I get farther out, waves are breaking over the entire baths area. If I manage to stay at all dry, I'll be amazed.So I time things alright and get out to admire the area and this view once more. I snap the few required photos and have a smile on my face to finally qualify for the smiley here. Having re-read my logs from 2018 ([Part 1](https://coord.info/GLXWX0RF) and [Part 2](https://coord.info/GLXWX0Q9)) reminds me of how much I was in amazement of the area. And this afternoon has been excellent also. What a magnificent way to implement a Virtual Reward - a multi-point tour of a fantastic local set of attractions. Thank you for this long-lived experience, Big Matt and Shell

Found it!

Camera broken but jobs done. Tftc

Great beautiful sunny day to go out and complete this one with Buz21b ?? thanks it was a good one.

Newcastle Ocean Baths
This is closed for renovations, so we couldn't get to the exact spot. We walked around the kiddy pool and got as close to the spot as we could and took a photo.

The Bogey Hole
Photo attached. Walking down was ok, but beware, walking back up the stairs was a killer.

Merewether Baths
Photo attached.

Answers and other photos required have been sent to the owner.

Virtual Cache - Newcastle Coastal Tour.

Well this was an epic tour. Thanks Big Matt and Shell absolutely loved it. I grew up in Newcastle and haven't really gone to back to these places since I was a knee high to a grasshopper. We started this one at WP2 as we had previously done WPI late one arvo. I have more pictures on my facebook account for all of you who know me.

WP1. Done late one arvo and it was a perfect sunset. There was a seal frolicking in the harbour and showing off for all the people walking.
WP2. we got a little artsy with this one its quite a stunning piece really.
WP3. we stopped in at Fort Scratchly where we spent far to long getting pics. MStrikes wanted to pose like Cher on the gun but unfortunately there are signs that prohibit
this to occur and the Gatehouse probably would have called the authorities, she didn't. Also Geodoggo was very disappointed that only "Assistance Doggos" and not "Very Good Girls" are allowed onto the grounds.
WP4. was under construction so was unable to log this. Although we get get onto the beach as close to possible to where the co-ordinates were.
WP5. was perfect today although I believe we took the hardest way down to bogey hole and once again Geodoggo was not allowed down onto the platform, she wasn't impressed.
But I love it down here and I must come back with my swimmers.
WP6. The views from this spot are brilliant and historically its amazing. Around the corner is a Little Library which we stopped to look at
WP7. This is a perfect walk and today the views were amazing, once again you are unable to take the dog, so we took it in turns to answer the questions whilst we sat with Geodog. We also got another traditional down here that we missed last time we were here. It turns out that everyone loves Geodog so she was so happy to get pats whilst she waited for us to finish.
WP8 The water was so clear and there were so many people enjoying the sun shine. I kinda wished I brought my swimmers with me.

It was a perfect day today, thankyou for the tour. We had a ball. I have submitted my answers to the owners.

I started this virtual back in March while visiting friends and the in-laws in Maitland. I only managed about half of the WPs in between doing ALs and ECs around Newcastle.

Fast forward to today, and I came to finish it off so I could get the souvenir. With the late winter sun shining down on me, I managed to get the last of my photos and answers.

Prior to starting the virtual, the last time I was here around the coast was when the Pasha Bulka was grounded in 2007. I wasn't disappointed with this virtual. Some lovely places to visit, and most answers/photos were collected without trouble. The only issue was that GeodogZelda wasn't allowed at some locations, so I had to rush to get what I needed. A worthy winner of Geocache Of The Month.

Answers sent to CO. Photos will be attached. TFTV

I spent my childhood years in the Hunter Valley (Cessnock), and still visit my family (who mostly live in Newcastle or near Maitland) regularly. This Newcastle Tour Virtual is great for anyone visiting Newcastle or even for those that live there. Definitely a Favourite Point from me. TFTVC Big Matt and Shell

Decided to try and bag this virtual today and was determined not to go home until I'd completed it. My plan to walk it went awry when I realised that I had a hole in my sock, and my feet were hurting / I was too lazy, so I confess to partly driving to some of the locations. However, this was a fab cache and well worth the visit! I arrived at Fort Scratchley in time for the daily cannon firing at 1pm, saw a chinook on an exercise from the air base, visited Bogey Hole for the first time, and had an unexpected chat with another cache owner, which lifted my spirits, as I was feeling a bit down today. Merewether baths WP was out of bounds due to maintenance work, but really enjoyed this one. TFTC and greetings from West Yorkshire!

Bogey hole pic

Wow what an effort. Completed this one over a couple of days and enjoyed the places it took me and the other caches and ALs I picked up on the way. During uni I lived in Newcastle but unfortunately I did not have the tools for or know about geocaching TFTC

In the area after leaving the MEGA, heading north with a few selected stops along the way. After spending the night at Woy Woy, this was the first on my list for today. I thoroughly enjoyed the tour, the Anzac Walk and Bogey Hole were two of my favourite spots to visit. I have sent my answers to the CO, a big thank you Big Matt and Shell, this was a great virtual, a fp from me.

We are probably in the minority of cachers doing this one on foot and it certainly was a marathon. Fantastic coastal walk and scenery and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Hope my photos and answers are OK. As you can see, Monty is featured in them all. Many thanks for the experience, FP awarded.

It is noted that the fencing is limiting access to stage 4 so for now this virtual can be done without this waypoint until the works are completed. Thanks.

Enjoyed the virtual tour to all these favourite places;)
Logging for my milestone find #300;)
Thanks for this virtual Big Matt and Shell;)

Thanks for the walk

46.9kms —- page 7

I started this cache back in December but ran out of time to get to merewether baths but then every time I went back to finish it the car park was too full or they were cleaning the baths , but today I thought I would give it another go while driving past and luckily found a park.

I really enjoyed the tour of Newcastle this cache took me on, I had never been all the way out to the break wall before it is a great spot, a bit windy the day I went.

The Bogey hole was another place I had never been before and after telling
My daughter I had been there, I had to go back and take her because apparently that’s where the Norris Nuts go . Some youtubers my daughter watches.

I love the walk along the Anzac walk it has amazing views. So thank you for creating this great tour of the area Big Matt and Shell def fav point for the fun and tour

Came here a while ago when dropping my son in Newcastle but finally got to logging, answers sent. It certainly is a tour show casing the Newcatle area. Visited all the waypoints for info or photos. Thanks for the Virtualcache Big Matt and Shell.

This is the 1st cache of 1 for today making a grand total of 3478 at 1:34PM on this Friday the 25th of February in the Year 2022

8. Will only let me upload one photo So here is the last WP. Merewether ocean baths at the blocks. A monumental cache. Down from GC for a few days. Took us all day. 21,592 steps. Thanks for putting this together Big Matt and Shell.

5.

6.

4.

Found with 999Hunter.
See his log for details.
TFTC
999HK

Second morning in Newcastle of our holiday here. My early caching run yesterday including collecting the first 4 way points. It was a very hot morning by 8am, and there was lotsof people out and about. As such I didn't jump the bolder at the end of the spit, but a container ship was passing at the time.

Today after another sleep in, I was off on another caching run, while my wife went for a 20km run. I collected the next 3 way points between 7 and 8 am. The tide was high at the Bogey Hole and it was pretty impressive. I'll attach a footsie when I get home. Then jumped at the rocks at the edge and was taking photos of the surf and the crabs. After putting my phone away, I just stood there for a while watching the surf. When I saw the biggest wave yet, I started wishing I had my surfboard, but didn't really judge how powerful it was and where I was standing. When it hit the edge of the Bogey Hole and the spray went up and over, I was drenched up to the head. Absolutely loved it.

That only left Merewether Baths. So after lunch, 999HK, my wife and myself went for a swim in the Baths before taking the required photos of me standing at the Blocks.

Thanks for the cache Big Matt and Shell
Hunter

PS. Logging without permission to keep my stats in order, but email sent.
PPS. Photos will be uploaded on return home.

Wow! This was so much fun. Loved going on this adventure.

Well as Arnie says “ I’ll be back “ . Tried to finish this cache today but my luck was out , couldn’t quite get to GZ

I had not planned on finding this cache today. To be honest I have avoided it because I thought it was going to be too long and too hard but I was Totally wrong I really enjoyed the walk and the awesome views and it was not hard at all. I had never been to the breakwall before and the breeze on such a hot day was beautiful. Once I started I was really keen to finish it and had no problems finding any of the locations or answers , except I think I was getting a bit tired at Shepards Hill because I could not find the plaque, I found a plaque but it was not right , So I walked around the building again and found the right plaque on top of the plaque I had found the first time Doh. I had never been to the bogey hole before either and wished I had actually dressed better for a swim, The water looked so good, Saw a little girl collecting star fish from the water . Sadly I could not do the final location but will def be back to finish and will send my answers and photos to the CO then . Merewether baths was packed. I could not get a car park at all and after over 18,000 steps today decided i would come back . Thanks to Big Matt and Shell for creating such a great cache,

What a great day following this virtual cache. Massive favourite point from me.

We have been slowly working on this cache for the last 5 weeks. Finally got the last 2 today while out shopping. TFTC Big Matt and Shell. Thanks for showing us some lovely places in and around Newcacstle

Today I was in Newcastle for some crate digging at an annual record fair in the morning, and some geocaching for the arvo. I decided to target mainly this one today as I haven't really spent much time "sightseeing" Newy before and I figured this might be a nice way to do it, and it was! I also tackled a few other caches but ended up with about 3 or 4 DNFs including a "did not start" probably due to complete blindness... but I digress.

I managed to do this one in the recommended order in three different legs on foot, driving to each leg; WP1-4, WP5-7, and finally WP8.

Wow the breeze at WP1 was horrendous! Fortunately I was rugged up good but crikey it felt like I was walking up hill much of the way the breeze was that strong! My hair will be fuzzy for about a week now. I got close to getting a ship in my WP1 image at the end of the breakwall but it had rounded the corner by the time I was just a hundred metres out

It was an excellent way to spend the afternoon. TFTVC, Big Matt and Shell.

(Answers sent)
#1308

I had a chance to complete this virtual a while ago but didn’t get organised enough to log it until today! What a great virtual cache! I did this one over 2 days as there was so much to do and see along the waterfront. Answers sent. GP given.
Thanks for the virtual

We had a great time walking from the breakwall all the way down to Merewether Baths, even though it was above 30 degrees most of the way. We continued up the hill to the lookout to find the last stage of the adventure lab as well. Thanks for the great walk and virtual cache, TFTC!

A lovely wander around the nearest city to where I grew up and spent many teenage train trips and also where I went to University for a year.

I remember swim at both the baths but had never been to the end of the breakwall or on the new skywalk.

I also shed a tear at Fort Scratchley where my dad used to do volunteer work and my grandfather showed me around.

Thanks for all the memories. A lovely afternoon.

TFTC.

18 Nov 2020

Found ‘Newcastle Coastal Tour’ (GC7B6V6) with zedtotheoee.

This was the main objective of today and we walked the length end to end, while completing other caches and Adventure Labs along the way.

Thanks For placing and maintaining The Virtual Cache Big Matt and Shell, favourite point awarded for the tour of Newcastle highlights.

A fitting cache to ring up my 5,000th find (I am all about the experience, rather than the numbers, but this is still a milestone worth celebrating).

[@JordsAU](http://coord.info/PR7CP3M)

(o<--- Found by “JordsAU!
\\\_\
< ____)

Enjoyed the last of winter in the sunshine over 2 halves for this cache racking up 20000 steps with miss teen. TFTC

Had a blat of a weekend in Newcastle with lots of great caches and many favourite points given. Weather was chilly but perfect for caching. Parking not to many problems, but walked most of it anyway. Loved the coastal tour from the seals at the breakwall to the pool in fading light. Very recommendable.
TFTC Wilbert67

Previously logged under team account BoogieRogue. Re-logging with my individual account. #Find#: 2848#

Found on: 9 July 2020 11:56

Buddies: none

Muggles: lots

Weather: sunny

Cache condition: virtual



---

Managed to get all the necessary info and photos of this excellent virtual.

Also answers sent to CO. Lovely walk.

**TFTC Big Matt and Shell TNLNSL**

Discover my trackables: 654EMY, GSVG86, TAKM0V, GM5KY0

#Find#: 2848#
Found on: 9 July 2020 11:56
Buddies: none
Muggles: lots
Weather: sunny
Cache condition: virtual

---
Managed to get all the necessary info and photos of this excellent virtual.
Also answers sent to CO. Lovely walk.
**TFTC Big Matt and Shell TNLNSL**
Discover my trackables: 654EMY, GSVG86, TAKM0V, GM5KY0

i started this adventure about 1030pm sat night with the long walk out to wp1 and i timed it perfect as i was able to get a pic of a ship coming in with the lighthouse in it.

wp2 3 and 4 were easy as noone around at them.

at wp5 bogey hole around midnight i walked down from the gate at the top road to the pool at bottom and between waves crashing on the bottom level i managed to get a selfie between the waves and got out without getting wet.

at wp6 not sure if it as the long weekend or because of the covid19 virus but it was not open all day.

at wp7 still dark i decided not to risk going out there so i slept in car in carpark then went out in the daylight and got the pic with a very cool breeze blowing. then decided to go back to bogey hole and get another pic this time in the daylight.

I always knew that for some geocaching was essential for their physical and mental health. I had hoped that my mind was strong enough for this not to be the case and had only done about 30 in the last 6 weeks all directly related to a home or work location and exercise to continue building strength from the broken ankles. That all changed when I realised that I had misread the merewether baths one and just photographed the blocks when I had to be in the photograph. And at the bogey hole I had been 2 steps to high. From this I had needed to change the find to a dnf. Turns out my mind wasn’t as strong as I though it was. After 3 sleepless nights it was off to the docs for some therapy. Dr nic soon asked whether or not would put my mind at ease if I did the cache. I said no chance. While I knew geocaching was a legitimate pursuit I didn’t see travelling to Newcastle for exercise and mental health care as legitimate. He told me it clearly was, there was also no limit in travel distances for legitimate pursuits in nsw. If I didn’t believe me, ring the health direct number for advice. The lady agreed with dr nic as it was part of the train network and I would be following a trained professionals advice. As long as I ensured social distancing was happening. That’s easy I practice geocaching as a singular person and that won’t be changing soon. Started the train ride and 5am and 22kms by bike and felt happy within myself again. Took the replacement photos. Enjoyed the nicer weather. Won’t be making this situation known for a while because geocaching has always been a legitimate pursuit throughout covid. The best way to deal with it is to avoid contact with other humans or taking it to new areas or returning with it. Especially since little is known about the incubation period. And while this is very legitimate for some it would also be a loophole for others. Replacement photos attached. Tftc etc.

Golly gosh, time flies or maybe I was just too tired from this cache that never ends. Started it back in November and submitting it now. It was a stormy day to visit my dreads loctician and then finish with an afternoon of cacheing around Newcastle. It brought hail, heat and lots of walking. Finishing late at night as you can see by the pictures. Some answers have been sent to the cache owners already. Loved the views couldn't stand the amount of humans around.
TFTC

Completed coastal walk with Grub Fred Full log to follow.

We spent a fun morning taking in the beautiful coastal sights around Newcastle while completing this virtual cache. This adventure was completed with Mr and Mrs Grub Fred and shaneo58 and better companions we could not have wanted for. The water holes looked very inviting on this hot day but we were on a mission but at least we did get to snatch 15 minutes for lunch. Photos of the event are documented in Grub Fred's log entry. Thanks Big Matt and Shell, good to be doing one of your caches. Fav point allocated.

Find No: 8019. Been saving this for a special occasion and today was the day! Headed out with shaneo58, Mrs Grub Fred & Liz and Bruce towing the trailer with two bicycles.
Bruce and I rode out to WP1 (as shaneo58 had previously done so), collected the info and managed to get the photo with a ship coming into the harbour, Yay, bonus points!
Managed to get a park (with the trailer) close to all WP’s, had a Pluto Pup and chips at the Baths for old time’s sake!
Good to visit the Bogey Hole once more and had a bit of fun at Merewether Baths (half empty).
All in all, a great adventure with a fun crew, gets a favorite, wouldn’t care to have walked it though!
Thanks for the cache Big Matt and Shell!!

Today would be a great day to grab some caches in the Newy area. This was my first port of call (pun intended(I think)), and i had several going at once there for a while. I must say i enjoyed the cache, with its views, interesting historical aspects, and some lovely walking. I did it in three stages, of walking, then driving, walking etc. Weather was a little windy, and overcast, and parts of me now resemble a beetroot, as i did not slop on some sunscreen. Just did not feel like that kind of day.... I grew up in Waratah West, an outer suburb, and frequented Newcaslt a lot in my youth, but i had not been to 5 of these exact locations before. I took both options, so i have photos, and will send my answers through as well. TFTC and the exercise. FAV from me, though its a hard way to earn one smiley. ( I think this is the first time i have attached photos to a log. Hoping i have done it correctly, and dont bring the whole system to a crashing halt.

We never pass up on the opportunity presented by a Virtual Cache, and having noticed this one we were determined to undertake it, and so having arrived in Newcastle late yesterday afternoon we were soon walking along the Breakwater towards waypoint 1. We then continued on the trail through to waypoint 4, making our Fields Notes and taking the required photos. By this stage it was now completely dark and so we pulled out of the trail and returned to complete it this morning. Once again the various waypoints led us to some very interesting and scenic locations and again we made our Field Notes and took the required photos. We have subsequently submitted our answers to the CO who we thank for the Virtual cache. A favourite point definitely awarded and greetings from Zimbabwe

Some non-compliant logs removed and some reminders sent to finders who still haven't added the compulsory photos to their online log.

Nice views and we saw plenty of dolfins

Finally got to attack this Virtual cache but it did take me three days to complete. Enjoyed the challenge but very interesting to do. Have email my answers to the CO and hopefully all well. Definitely worth a favorite point so thanks to Big Matt and Shell for setting it up.

Hi we found it!

Hi big Matt and Shell

I have just sent you a email with all my answers.

Thanks so much for all the effort you have put into the Newcastle coastal tour.
I completed it all today. I’m transitioning to retirement and building in a 55 village out Glendale way. This cache was a wonderful way for a Sydney sider to start to learn about her new home town.

1) due to bad ankle photo will be uploaded.
2) answer sent
3) answer sent and photo uploaded
4) answer sent and photo uploaded
5) photos uploaded
6) answer sent and photo uploaded
7) answer sent
photo uploaded.

Thanks so much. You get a favourite from me.

Great but long walk, awesome views and thanks for all the information. TFTC (Answers and photos sent to CO)

Spent the afternoon with Michelle Nadja exploring this great stretch of coast. We had a great time. TFTC

During the marathon run of my daughter I walked all stages from this virtuell on the beach.
Thank you
Team sissifalke

Started this tour in daylight and finshed after the sun had set. Amazing scenery and a lot of special places. Fond memories of living in Newcastle in the 1990's.

Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh, today our World Cruise ship Arcadia stopped in Newcastle. We walked from Queens Wharf to Nobbys lighthouse then down the coast to the Meriweather baths. This is one tough virtual to do on foot! But we made it. We met several friendly Aussies who help direct us along the way. Our answers are on the way. TFTVC

Countries visited so far on this cruise: United Kingdom, Portugal, St Lucia, Aruba, Mexico, USA, Fiji, New Caledonia, Australia

Thats a cache you really have to earn. I started at shepperds hill after collecting a traditional cache there not realising that I would have to walk all the way back again. So wehen you do this as a walking cache have sombody drop you at the start and pick you up at the end.

I finally took the car for the last two stations, but it is still a lot of walking ant the whole tour took me 7 hours. The places are worth a visit, but plan for a swimm or two. Especially on a 30+ day.

we only had time to achieve half the requirements such a shame but it would be very unlikely for us to return here from New Zealand as we took a cruise this time, but thank you for the adventure anyway.

*..continued from above*
Finding a park near these three waypoints looked like it was going to suck, just by design of the roads and what would have a footpath connecting to where. But we managed to squeeze the hatchback into a spare space and leg it from there. As it turns out, there was an easy way to the Bogey Hole. Very downhill which I knew would make future me very sad. But through some gardens and to a lookout that was lovely. The swimming hole was very busy and the only guy there with shoes and socks on taking a selfie got some odd looks.

By now we were pretty hot and sweaty. I'd sort've dried out from the wave attack at waypoint one, but I was still wet and salty. The walk up, up, up to Shepherds Hill felt like it went on forever. Needless to say when we got to the top, we were taking our time. A breeze made life pleasant, though try as I might I couldn't find an answer to one question. I was doing all the options anyway, so all was sorted.

There was chatter about whether we continue the geocache and both of us were just driven enough to carry on. And the ANZAC Walk when we'd arrived was such an interesting location that we agreed it had been worthwhile not quitting. What else do you do with a dirt cliff and a strange place like this? It sure has maximised use of this place in a magnificent way. The panorama from here is fantastic. We lingered a bit here.

Grace brought up again what was for dinner. She had been googling on the way back to the car and I too was realising now just how much effort this geocache took. One waypoint to go. We were both knackered from a day of driving, the lengthy, hot walk here and still had to get back to Morriset and put up a tent yet. But just one to go. At least we're driving from here.

Honestly I can't recall the difference between Mereweather and the Newcastle Baths. Both get a 'nope!' from me for fear of swimming and the little white igloo appeared at both. I wondered which featured in a mural we'd seen back along the way someplace.

On the way back to wherever it was decided we were going for dinner, a few wrong turns were made. But food will help with fatigue for the drive back. Unfortunately the burger place was closed and the route out to the highway is way longer than expected followed by a very subdued cruise down the highway.

So, I am so very glad I chose this geocache. It delivered exactly what it promised; A Tour of Coastal Newcastle. As a Brisbane boy, I sometimes wonder the allure of living anywhere that isn't a capital city, but here in Newcastle, I can understand at least the bigger city argument. New South Wales just does beaches better plus the options and access are simply outstanding. I would love to be back. But I am thankful this expedition is completed for me. Congratulations on receiving a Virtual Reward Big Matt and Shell and thank you for placing it to show me this beautiful part of the world

EDIT: I missed taking a photo at WP8 - Merewether Baths, and with no alternative option for that waypoint have not fulfilled the criteria for the geocache. As such, I have changed my 'Found It' to a 'Write Note'. Bugger!

For the end of 2018, I'm embarking on a road trip with my plus one, Grace. We're gone from 22 to 29 December, covering 2500km between Brisbane, Tenterfield, Tamworth, Katoomba, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Grafton and back again. I had carefully planned out a select few geocaches which resulted in 24 finds for the trip. This is day five and we're headed from Katoomba, skirting around Sydney and heading for Newcastle. This was the only target in Newscastle proper. It seems like it will do a perfect job of showing us around the place and why attempt many geocaches when just one will do? Other than that, I wanted to grab this because of its rare type and hidden by a CO I have huge respect for.

On these road trips, I keep a short note about each find. Earlier today I had written 'cool bridge. 50m down creek. rock hop. G found in cave. original log'. That sort of thing to remind me of the experience and to recall more detail for an enriching online log. My comment for this find reads simply 'OMFG long'. And that, about summarises this entire experience. And while we were exhausted, hot and sticky when I wrote that, it was a fantastically enjoyable tour of coastal Newcastle. A memorable and unforgettable couple of hours on foot, driving about and exploring the area.

I elected to visit the waypoints in order. Because, why not? Expecting a nightmare of parking, we found a spot near Pasha Way which made me sad that I wouldn't see that shipwreck today, so instead we sunscreened, grabbed water and began the long walk out to the breakwall tip. Along the way there were kitesurfers to watch out to the right and a few times stopped to look at the rocks on the left. I did catch a glimpse of the Adolphe but unfortunately, wouldn't get any closer today. As a swarm of tugboats were guiding a ship into the channel, I rushed a little to catch a photo for the extra points and captured it.

However, not being one to do things by halves I ignored the fantastic blue and calm sea to clamber over rocks looking for the lovers. I found a few things, some crabs and another plaque but nothing correct. I wound up on a concrete block holding the steel U-bolt on top when I looked up and saw a single freak wave breaking over the top. There was no option other than to wear it. In a second I was drenched. I turned around and everyone else on flat concrete had legged it. Just a very wet me and a few people laughing at me. I was one of those people too! Phone is dry at least but let's head off.

We walked then to the second waypoint which was a hot and sunny time. And half of NSW was out enjoying the sun at the beach here. We picked our way through the crowd and I made a right dork of myself by taking my artsy photos and giggling to myself as folks walked by. Grace tried to distance herself from me as much as possible.

As the next two waypoints would take us up and over and away from the coast a bit, I figured we'd walk to them, then double back to the car and drive to the next group afterwards. I had Fort Scratchley recommended to me by a friend before we came so I was excited we'd be visiting it with this geocache. As it turns out though, it was closed. I attempted a Cher moment for the photo, but a small sign instructed me not to! Fine, we'll just have to check out the view then! Though, apparently I failed to get the photo here. At least I got the numbers! This is why I get all the options, to cover for my own failings.

Down to the baths where the idea of a swim tomorrow was considered (mostly by Grace) and back along the esplanade to the car. By now we'd already covered about five kilometres and only half way done. Ah, working for a D4, who'd have thought?
*continued below..*

#764
This tour took us a few weeks to complete & was thoroughly enjoyable. We started in November at WP1. And finalised our mission in December. Email with answers will be forthcoming. TFTC Big Matt and Shell

This has taken us a few visits as we sometimes drove up the coast and found conditions were not ideal. However, we did finish today despite some locations being a bit dangerous with the seas breaking over the Breakwall, Bogey Hole and Merewether Baths. Photographs are attached for those sites where they were required or we could not obtain all the information. It was fun visiting all those places we had been to before for the old Wherigo cache, except the viewing tower on the wharf of course, and the previous GZ where I needed to ignore the "Keep Out" sign to collect the cache. Thanks Big Matt and Shell for this virtual cache, and well done on being chosen to create it.

Just checking through some logs and noticed that some of the photos for the two compulsory locations are not at the correct location. Please be advised that logs that do not meet the requirements will be questioned and if need be deleted if they do not comply.
This cache is designed to be tough, you may have to visit over a number of days to complete if the weather is rough. It's not designed to be a 1.5/1.5 driveby.

found with banj ward tftc

other pic

Completed with Beary_Unicorns on a sunny Sunday. Miss Beary and Miss Unicorn enjoyed this cache, seeing dolphins in the harbour and visiting the tunnels of Fort Scratchley. Thanks for this very enjoyable and educational cache, fave point from me.

**Found whilst visiting Newcastle for Ice Hockey**.

*Out and about with The Empire*

A pleasant stroll along the breakwater collecting the info for the Earthcaches and any trads along the way.

First time in Newcastle since I lived in Sydney in 1986. A fantastic virtual cache, taking us to many beautiful and wonderful sights. I can't really add to what The Empire has already said. The weather was fantastic as was the company!
Thanks for the fantastic virtual cache Big Matt and Shell.
-P

**#13457**
*Virtual #39*

Cache-On!

PS - Will add my qualifying pictures ASAP.

Found by The Empire with Snap Happy
Checking out the Newcastle waterfront whilst completing this virtual cache was a great way to spend a Monday morning. We wandered along the breakwater, picking up the earthcaches and taking plenty of photos along the way. Then we were able to drive/walk to the rest of the waypoints and saw a part of Newcastle I hadn't seen before.

I've been to Newcastle a few times. First time was almost 10 years ago and then again last year. Each time, I've been able to see a different part of this coastal city. From the breakwater, to the Bogey Hole, to the Merewether Baths - this is the best Newcastle has to offer. A great virtual cache, taking us to these attractions.

We saw a pod of dolphins as we walked back along the breakwater and an awesome whale at the Bogey Hole. Hawks were diving into the bushes for mice and huge waves were crashing against the rocky outcrops along the shoreline. The weather was glorious! Favourite point added. Thanks for the cool virtual cache Big Matt and Shell.
- M

Found at 4:04 PM GAFF1.
We did the original tour 5 years ago with The Cashman guiding us, so it was interesting to go around again and revisit most of the locations. Rode the MTB down to the first WPT which was an interesting ride - there was a strong westerly blowing at around 40 kph and when I passed the beach bit, I got sand blasted!
We were amazed at how many muggles were about at the various locations - this town has changed so much in the past 5 years and has become quite a tourist location with the lovely beaches and lots of interesting eating places.
Thanks Big Matt and Shell.

Really enjoyed our day doing this cache and wandering around Newcastle Coastal walk. Thanks to CO for placin this virtual cache. Had a lovely day and even met up with fellow geocachers 2 Pods at Fort Scratchley. TFTC

This exercise took us a very pleasant half- day. Since we live locally, we have visited all of these spots many times, and never tire of it - also found a couple of corners that we hadn't quite reached previously.
As we approached the cannon at Fort Scratchley we spied a couple heading for the same spot, GPS and paper in hand - not hard to work out why they were there! A very pleasant few minutes chatting to the curious kittens. Unfortunately they were following the trail in the opposite direction to us, so we parted company.
Bagged a whale as well! but a quiet day for ships.
A fav from us for giving us a thoroughly enjoyable half day's exercise. Tftc, Big Matt and Shell!

Find #2219
It was a fairly last minute decision to go for the Coastal Tour today, initially, knowing how long it was, suggested to the boys we go and do some of the WPs today, to finish later - Samuel then suggested using the bikes.... so the afternoon was quickly planned. Given how perfect the weather was, it would have been a shame to sit in the car for hours.
The first hurdle was finding a park we could sit in for long enough, as we cruised along near Queens Wharf Tower we counted three (busy) parking inspectors, so doing a dodge wasn't going to be an option today.
Things then went pretty smoothly, we had never walked or ridden much of this path, and found it spectacular to say the least, so many little gems of spots to check out along here. We even got to watch whales blowing and breeching out to sea whilst at the breakwall. I near blew a gasket pushing the bike (with trailer and five year old) up to Shepherd Hill from the Bogey Hole (the kids favourite spot of the day), and we had a much deserved spell on the grass there to recoup and check on our little cache there also.
At the baths we took the adventurous path across the rear wall to the blocks, and ended up with saturated shoes and socks as the waves started crashing over. Thinking of the return ride, *the* hill between us, and the soon to be fading light, we PAFd someone who lived in Merewether and rode to their place to bum a ride back to the car.....
Thanks Big Matt and Shell for placing this virtual, we certainly enjoyed ourselves.

Found today on the bikes after lunch. The ride was tiring but fun, At the first waypoint there was even some whales! I loved the lighthouse, even though it was really steep, especially on the bikes. At the Merewether Bath's we got splashed, my shoes where SOAKED at least we had a friends house pretty close, So dad got a lift to the car while we where staying there, playing and dad brought the car back to pick us to go home.

### tftc big matt & Shell ###

Second attempt at this one. Last visit we got the pictures wrong, so hoping this time we have got them right. All positioned at 0-3 metres from GZ so should be good this time. Answers have been sent. Pics attached here.

Took a while to complete this one, grabbed a photo here and there on my visits to town. A great tour of Newcastle's sights. TFTC

After previously misinterpreting one of the questions and ending up with the wrong answer, I returned to the area today to have another shot, again taking the train up and walking out from where the shuttle bus dropped me off at the old Newcastle station.

On the way I revisited the Bogey Hole and, with lower seas and the place to myself, decided I really needed to take the plunge (see photo below).

With the school holidays over and no hordes of muggles and their mugglings interrupting me, I was able to quickly spot where I'd gone wrong and find the correct answer which the CO has confirmed.

Many thanks for this enjoyable virtual.

With nice weather forecast, I headed up to Newcastle Interchange by train (not sure what it's interchanging with) then found the shuttle bus out to Queen's Tower and walked around the foreshore to the breakwater to begin my journey. I'd forgotten that it was school holidays, though, so just about all the waypoints were teaming with muggles and their mugglings.

I immediately struck a spot of bother at S1 as after climbing over the small concrete block nearest to where my GPSr was pointing, I couldn't see any lovers' trysts, so I tried another block to the right and found a multitude of them! I've included a couple of photos with my message to the CO and have also attached the Option B photo to this log, so hopefully one or the other is okay.

On to S2, where I noted the date and took my artsy photo before grabbing some fish and chips at the surf club cafeteria. Lunch eaten, I walked the long way around Fort Scratchley to find the entrance where I noted the number on the cannon, then wandered around taking photos for a bit.

Looking for a way back down to the beach for the next stage, I saw Beach St on the map but when I got there, there's a sign saying No Beach Access. Maybe they should've picked a better name for that street! So it was back around the northern side of the fort and down onto the beach where I made my way along to S4 to count turtles.

At the following stage, the Bogey Hole was mind-blowing! Just as I arrived some big waves crashed over it, spraying water halfway up the stairs, so I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to get down for the required photo, but the seas calmed enough for me to do that. Soon after that some more big waves arrived, not that it deterred those in the pool.

On to Shepherds Hill where I photographed the information I needed for the question, except I didn't see the very last part about counting the columns. Doh! Anyway my Option 2 photo is attached to this log so hopefully that'll suffice.

The Anzac Walk was another eye-opener. I managed to find the information required just as another mob of muggles descended on it. From there I made my way down onto the sand and followed the shore to the final waypoint which was also overrun with mugglings splashing about and muggles swimming laps of the pool. I managed a photo of me sitting between the diving blocks with my feet in the water, though.

From there it was a short walk over to the bus stop in Watkins Street and a number 12 bus back to a stop somewhere near Newcastle Interchange and the long train trip back to Woy Woy. Many thanks for this enjoyable virtual, and for the record I did it all on foot in bare feet. I've attached a screenshot of my track for the day.

Sadly it seems I messed up my answer to S7, so this is now a DNF. Will try again next time I'm up that way.

I have confirmed the details of each of the logs and have deleted some logs that do not meet the requirements. Please make sure that you read the requirments in full.

I did the original incarnation of this as the Whereigo and to be honest I think this new version is actually better!

I had a glorious day today for this adventure which helped the experience to be even more special.

It’s easy as a local to forget how privileged we are to live in such an incredibly beautiful city. An adventure such as this really helps to connect back to being a tourist and treasuring some of the sights and views that we might otherwise take a little for granted. For that alone, this is worth an FP.

I also really felt like some exercise and fresh air today so this was a fantastic way to grab a cache, promote my own mental health and de-stress, and burn off a few Easter eggs.

Definitely worth an FP in my view. Thanks for a great afternoon walk (and a couple of little drives). Ha ha TFTC

Day 6 of our Oz Geomuster roadtrip from Queensland. Today Mrs Esky was going solo after leaving the rest of the family at home for a car-free day binge-watching Netflix . Leaving quite early, travelling north from where we have been staying at Swansea, I encountered a decent rain shower. By the time I reached Merewether Baths the rain had cleared and I was greeted by a beautiful rainbow. Perfect start to the day. I slowly headed north gathering all the requirements. I wasn't able to get an 'artsy' pic at the sculpture due to a news crew conducting a couple of interviews there but I did race in and snap a pic of the plaque so I could acquire the info for the other option. A couple of brief stops to gather information for the earthcaches at Nobbys Beach and I headed up to Fort Scratchly...probably my favourite stop as the old bloke manning the gate was curious as to what I was up to and then got the chats about the story of the cannons being "lost" and then "found" again. A fantastic tour...answers sent...a fav point for sure. Thanks Big Matt & Shell.

Found with Grey team ,answers and pics sent by Grey team

This is the type of cache i wish i could award more than one fav point to. I started at the the breakwall end, surprised tonsee free parking so walked from here to the baths then up to the fort before moving the car further up the trail. The weather was just right to have a swim in the baths before heading up to the fort; of course that was closed as i was doing the cache on a tuesday. These things happen, i was set for another swim at the bogey hole but decided it was a tad rough at the time to bother. I wasnt the only one to make that call either, the hill up to the station seemed to go on forever but thats because im not very fit at present. There was no end of fit young things cruising past me thats for sure. Loved the anzac walkway, saw some hangliders enjoying the updrafts and spoke to some
Asian tourists about the engraved names and whose they were, they were still taking photos when i left them to drive somewhere near the next set of baths. The day was a little cooler by now and i decided against another swim. I sat, having lunch with a beach view, reflecting on my meandering morning. Great locations chosen for your virtual, thank you so much for putting it together. I have sent all the required photos and have awarded the fav point.

Found with Liv_123 over the Easter weekend. Answers sent to CO. Pics to be uploaded. Tftvc. A favorite for the views of the city.

We did the previous tour (wherigo) but love the virtual idea of recording waypoints with photos. We started at the breakwall and did them in the order they appeared taking all afternoon, only because of getting sidetracked at Nobby's Beach and the Bogey Hole for a swim. A fantastic afternoon of reseeing some marvellous sights of Newcastle plus Anzac Walk which we didn't know existed. This tour should be available to everyone visiting Newcastle, it's excellent! TFTV Big Matt and Shell, fav from us.

Out and about caching while in the region for the Oz Geomuster MEGA.
Today's caching buddy is just Caro (from Jess & Caro). [^]
Today is the day a lot of people are trying for as many types of caches in a day as they can, Caro was no exception. We will see how many see ends up with later. [^]
This one took us a couple of hours as we got lost a few times in the one way streets and did the odd cache or three along the way. [^]
Thanks for the event.

What an amazing few hours this was, and some fabulous areas I wouldn't have gotten to otherwise. A very cool cache on a hot hot day. Answers have been sent through and pics are attached.
A favourite point from me. Thanks Big Matt and Shell!

Heard about this one yesterday at the Mega event and thought I would pick it up today while out riding.

I have never worked harder for a virtual. A busy day around town on Easter Monday. Couldn’t get me and my steed down to the Bogey Hole or the Merewether Baths due to the amount of people around.

Hopefully I still satisfied the criteria to log the cache. Thanks Big Matt

We took two days to complete this virtual. Started late yesterday with a walk to the end of the jetty, getting the first few WPs. We came back today after church to complete the remaining waypoints. We enjoyed the long walks to all the interesting places. Thanks for the great virtual.

Happy Easter! VikingNav and I started working on this well thought out virtual yesterday afternoon. We did the first two waypoints, then headed for the Flashmob event at noon. We came back to finish it today after church. It was much warmer today especially with all the walking we did, but it was worth it. We had a great time doing this one! VikingNav has sent our answers for both of us, but I love taking photos, so we did both Option 1 & 2 where there were two options. I am posting the photos in order of the waypoints, until the 10th photo. All pictures after that are extras. We managed to get a Cruise Ship in our waypoint one photos....BONUS! My second photo is my "artsy" photo at waypoint two. Thanks for the time and effort put in to making this awesome virtual! Gets a favorite point from me.