Virtual and augmented reality technology has come a long way in the past few years and is being used to engage people in all different types of ways. While AR tends to have a reputation for being gimmicky, it can be very effective and provide a meaningful experience that audiences wouldn’t be able to get otherwise if it’s done right.
Australia’s International Convention Center (ICC) Sydney this week announced the launch of a new interactive augmented reality experience, in partnership with Bilbie XR Labs and the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, that will enable convention center visitors to learn more about the traditional culture and stories of Australia’s First Nations people.
The digital Gadigal Dreaming experience takes place before European arrival in Australia and depicts the traditional cultural practices of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, including gathering, fishing, corroboree, crafting. Visitors will be able to view the activation between September 1st and October 31st from sunset to 11pm throughout Darling Harbor. Viewers can access the AR experience via QR codes using their mobile device.
“This activation at ICC Sydney at Darling Harbour is researched, designed and produced to inspire audiences about the historical traditions of the Gadigal people,” said Brett Leavy, founder of Bilbie XR Labs Founder. “The immersive, high-definition and innovative experience represents the day to day lifestyles, culture and the environmental spaces through an augmented 3D digital genre […] Each digitally mapped virtual heritage environment embeds authentic cultural practices, Gadigal language and respectfully showcases the deep connection of the Gadigal peoples to their land.”
ICC Sydney has been working on reconciliation efforts for several years, and this activation, titled ‘Gadigal Dreaming – The Sacred Country of the Gadigal People,’ is the latest in an ongoing series of initiatives.
Geoff Donaghy, Global Group Director, Convention Centres and ICC Sydney CEO, added, “As an iconic destination, which stands and operates on the traditional lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation – the land of Tumbalong and the waterway of Gomora, on what is known today as Darling Harbour – ICC Sydney strives to truly reconcile with First Nations people through our business practices. We hope Gadigal Dreaming will increase visitors to this dynamic family-friendly precinct and encourage event attendees to stay longer in the area.”