A new locally developed augmented reality experience has been launched at Kings Park in time for families to enjoy during these school holidays.
The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority has teamed-up with Perth entrepreneurs, Markr Systems, to enhance the experience of visitors to the park.
Seven Markr augmented reality images have been installed in the Conservation Garden. The stories and images will help educate visitors on conservation and ecosystem restoration. The app will also enable multilingual audiences to enjoy the experience with an in-built translation service.
Using Markr, visitors can discover more of the behind-the-scenes work being done at Kings Park and around the State to conserve rare plants and restore them into their natural habitats. Four plant species have been profiled in Markr across the Conservation Garden. Virtual signage will also appear on visitor's mobile devices alongside the physical plants.
Users will have the opportunity to learn about native spider orchids and see them paired with a 3D wasp pollinator. They will also be able to see the natural habitat of a rare cliff-dwelling wildflower.
More Markr experiences are being developed for other locations in the park, including the State War Memorial and the Tobruk Memorial precinct on May Drive, to provide information about new memorial projects commemorating the Korean War and the Battle of Crete.
As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:
"Kings Park is Perth's most visited destination and this type of innovation will only enhance the visitor experience.
"The park is recognised world-wide for its work in conservation, science and displays of magnificent and unique flora, and this new app will make it easier for people to learn more about what makes Western Australia so special.
"I would encourage everyone to visit Kings Park during the school holidays and experience our State's incredible and unique biodiversity."
