The iconic Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach, Qld, has launched exciting new digital experiences for visitors exploring Australia’s aviation history.
Right in the heart of Queensland’s outback, Longreach’s Qantas Founders Museum is shaking up how visitors explore aviation history with new virtual and augmented reality experiences. The museum, which celebrates the beginnings of Qantas — the world’s second-oldest airline — is famous for its impressive collection of full-sized aircraft. Now, it’s making that history more interactive and accessible to everyone, no matter their physical ability.
Visitors to Longreach can explore detailed 3D models of iconic aircraft such as the Lockheed C-121J Super Constellation, restored to look just like the Southern Spray VH-EAM — the first Qantas jet-engine plane that revolutionised the Sydney-to-London Kangaroo Route. There’s also a 3D version of the Boeing 747-238B VH-EBQ, the last surviving Boeing 747-200 powered by Rolls-Royce engines.
Using their own phones, guests can jump into augmented reality to travel back in time at the Qantas museum and see how aircraft were built in Longreach more than 100 years ago. One fun feature is an interactive 3D mini-game where visitors can virtually assemble a De Havilland DH50 Giant Moth plane right on the very site where Qantas founders once worked. There’s also a chance to get up close with the Jupiter Bristol Radial Engine, a key invention that helped open up the Aussie outback through aviation.
Alongside these immersive tech experiences, the Qantas museum has introduced a new media guide designed to make tours easier and more accessible for visitors. It features interactive tours optimised for screen readers and animated marshallers to provide clear, easy-to-follow navigation throughout the exhibits.
Tony Cullen, CEO of the Qantas Founders Museum, said: “With our new immersive experiences we have taken another step into the future of the Qantas Founders Museum and strengthened our profile as a mandatory stop for travellers. Our partners at zetcom and fluxguide did a terrific job and exceeded our expectations in terms of commitment and attention to detail.”
The project was made possible with funding from the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
Qantas Founders Museum (Image Tourism and Events Queensland)
Explore Australia’s aviation history at the Qantas Founders Museum (Image Tourism and Events Queensland)
What to do after the Qantas Founders Museum
Once you’ve ticked the Qantas museum off you’re bucket list, here are some other great activities and attractions to add to your Longreach itinerary:
- Visit the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame to learn about outback pioneers through exhibits and live shows
- Enjoy a scenic river cruise on the Thomson River for relaxing views and wildlife spotting
- Head to a station for authentic outback experiences and cultural insights: Rosebank Station (Outback Aussie Tours) and Camden Park Station are great options
- Cobb & Co Stagecoach experience, following the original bush mail route.
Where to stay in Longreach
For a caravan-friendly stay not far from the Qantas Founders Museum, check out Longreach Tourist Park in town or Apex Riverside Park, just 4km north of town along the Landsborough Highway.
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