A free interactive walking tour app developed by two local business owners in partnership with Central Coast Council will be launched at the Lakes Festival on Friday, November 4.
The project has been spearheaded by business owners, Sean Grobbelaar and Sam Gardiner, both passionate locals who wanted to create an activity-based app showcasing the area and encouraging visitors to interact with local businesses while using it.
The app has been loaded with four initial routes which all depart from Memorial Park at The Entrance.
The primary route follows the existing Coast to Lake Walk and highlights interesting heritage and information about key points along the route.
App users can also spin a lottery wheel to earn vouchers that can be redeemed in local businesses.
Grobbelaar said a key element was to encourage visitors to interact with local businesses while using the app.
“The next phase is to onboard local businesses with exclusive specials and discounts,” he said.
Co-developer of the app, Sam Gardiner said more walking routes were being planned.
“We’re looking forward to working with local businesses and residents to add new routes and experiences,” he said.
“The possibilities are endless and it’s a great way to showcase local art, culture, shopping, dining experiences and much more that’s available in the area.
“In addition to this we’ve partnered with Take 3 For The Sea on certain walking stops in the app to raise awareness about plastic pollution and encourage the mindset of local environmental stewardship.
“We also plan on adding specialised educational tours that could be a great interactive excursion for local students.”
Central Coast Council Manager for Community and Culture, Glenn Cannard, says a lot of work has gone into developing the app.
“It’s great that the Council can support initiatives driven by dedicated locals like Sean and Sam,” he said.
“The app has great potential to showcase the area and we look forward to seeing where they take it in the future.”
Experience The Entrance app will be live from Friday, November 4 and can be accessed by scanning QR codes on signage around The Entrance.
Source:
Media release, Oct 28
Sentiment Media