The Australian War Memorial in Canberra (AWM) has released the first of a series of interactive online attractions allowing visitors to explore the inside workings of aircraft, warships, tanks and other large objects in the Memorial’s collection.
Coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I, the 360-degree interactive video of the Mark IV tank, Grit is now available online.
The WWI tank was manufactured in Britain and came to Australia to help raise funds during the conflict. It is currently on display in the Memorial’s Anzac Hall.
Director of the AWM, Brendan Nelson said online visitors could view and explore Grit, inside and out.
“Visitors can click on pop-up icons to see archival photos, watch videos, hear audio recordings, and uncover the stories behind the Mark IV tank, a machine that played an important role in our military history,” Dr Nelson said.
“Here at the Australian War Memorial, surrounded as we are by artefacts and relics, our responsibility is to tell the stories of the men and women that stand behind the equipment we proudly display.”
He said the project ensured people in remote parts of the country who could not physically visit the AWM could now, whether on a portable or a desktop device, inspect the large technology objects and have a tank brought to life before their eyes.
He said that over the next two years the Memorial will deliver four more 360-degree immersive experiences: The Avro Lancaster B1 G for George; HMAS Sydney (IV); a Lockheed Hudson bomber; and a Bushmaster Australian Army Protected Mobility Vehicle.
The 360-degree online experience of Grit (with sound) can be accessed on YouTube at this PS News link.
