Geocaching in NSW National Parks - update

[+The Spindoctors]

For almost two years, Geocaching NSW has been working with the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water - department responsible for the NSW Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) - regarding geocaching.

 

Recently we received a copy of a draft geocaching policy from the department. The policy, once implemented will see geocaching reintroduced into NPWS-managed areas.

 

The association has sought input from its members and recently met with the department to discuss the draft policy. The meeting went well and we expect to hear back from them in the next week or two.

 

As is the case with policy development, the department has expressed its desire to deal with associations/representative groups rather than individuals. We have, at the request of the department, forwarded the policy to Groundspeak's Australian reviewers and the Geocaching Australia administrators for comment.

 

We will also continue to gather input from our members over the next few weeks and work with the department in finalising the policy.

 

It is expected the new policy will be released in either October or November.

 

The department has asked us not to release the policy as it is still in a draft phase, however, here is a summary.

• Geocaching will be allowed in areas managed by the department, with the exception of Aboriginal areas, declared wilderness areas, nature reserves and caves. Some Heritage area placement may be allowed.
   
  
• An application to hide a geocache must be lodged and the default period is five years, which can be renewed. Hiders are encouraged to use the environment as is when placing their geocache.
   
  
• The hide must be an easy search once at GZ in order to minimise the possibilty of damage to the area. It must also not result in new paths or tracks being formed. The proximity to paths will be judged on a case-by-case basis, depending upon the location, environment and expected level of traffic.
  

The association sees this draft policy as a big step forward. It will allow new geocaches to appear in NSW National Parks, geocachers to engage in the activity without fear of prosecution and strengthen the bond between geocachers and the NPWS.

[+MattyRx]

This is a really positive step forward for NSW Geocachers (and to cachers visiting our state). Thanks must go out to the Spindoctors and GeocachingNSW team for the efforts made in working with the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. So much effort has been made on your behalf - it is really appreciated. Look forward to seeing the policy, and (all going well) eventually being able to geocache in our wonderful National Parks!