Introducing the ‘Walking on Country’ App: Explore Indigenous Sites at QUT Gardens Point

QUT Launches ‘Walking on Country’ App to Showcase Indigenous Culture on Campus

A new mobile app developed by Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is set to revolutionize the way users experience and learn about the rich history and culture of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Brisbane.

The Walking on Country app, a self-guided walking tour, utilizes geo-locational and augmented reality technology to guide users to seven points of interest on the QUT Gardens Point precinct. Each site represents a different aspect of Aboriginal place, people, culture, and Country, offering users a deeper understanding of the land on which QUT is located.

The project was initiated by QUT’s Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Australians) and was guided by Yugara Traditional Owners, Greg “Uncle Cheg” Egert and Gaja Kerry Charlton. The app received input from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students, and community members, ensuring that it accurately reflects the culture and history of the Turrbal and Yugara people.

“We came up with the concept of using an app as a modern way to show the QUT community the depth of Aboriginal culture and history here at Gardens Point,” said Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Australians), Angela Barney-Leitch. “Walking on Country aims to raise awareness and create a deeper understanding of the land on which QUT is located.”

The app, built by QUT’s in-house digital team VISER, is part of the Campus to Country initiative, which aims to transform the physical environments of the university to reflect the culture and history of Indigenous Australians. This initiative aligns with the recent announcement of the Australian-first Faculty of Indigenous Knowledges and Culture at QUT, set to welcome students in 2025.

The Walking on Country app is now available for free download on both Apple and Android devices, offering users a unique and immersive experience that celebrates the rich heritage of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Meanjin/Magandjin (Brisbane).

For more information and to download the app, visit the QUT website.