Audio work sounds off on museum artefacts

A NEW immersive multi-sensory audio artwork aimed at both preserving and highlighting the stories of local returned veterans has been unveiled at the Bendigo Military Museum.

Titled Storyscape, the work features stories from veterans across multiple conflicts including those who served in the Boer war, the first world war, the second world war, Korea and Vietnam.

Created by multi-instrumentalist David Gagliardi and sound artist-composer Aimee Chapman, the project builds on the museum’s collection of artefacts and stories and will provide visitors with an interactive audio storytelling experience that engages them with first-hand veteran accounts.

Bendigo RSL president Glenn Ludeman said the work is a strong example of how innovation can be used to preserve and honour service.

“Storyscape ensures that the voices of veterans are not only remembered, but experienced in a way that connects deeply with future generations,” he said.

“Projects like this are only possible through strong partnerships between veteran organisations, cultural institutions, and government support.

“Together, we are ensuring that the legacy of service continues to live in the heart of our community.”

Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters said projects such as this are helping to honour the service and sacrifice of the region’s veterans.

“The Storyscape project will bring together people of all ages to reflect on the impact of war and conflict on our local community,” she said.

“This project will preserve stories of the brave local men and women who have fought to protect our way of life.

“I’m proud to see their legacy preserved so that future generations can also pay their respects.”

Storyscape was funded in its entirety by a $136,340 grant from the federal government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants program.

The RSL’s Bendigo Military Museum in Pall Mall is open from 10am to 4pm seven days a week.