Linton Launches Self-Guided Audio Tours Bringing Local History to Life
A long-awaited and exciting new way to experience Linton’s rich history will launch on Sunday, 26 April, as the Linton & District Historical Society unveils its new self-guided audio tours.
This innovative project offers a fresh, modern approach to a much-loved local resource. The tours are based on the book An Historic Walk-Drive Tour of Linton and District, originally written in 2011 by L&DHS President Dr Jill Wheeler and Del Atkinson, and accompanied by hand-drawn maps. While the book has long been valued by the community, keeping its content current and widely known presented ongoing challenges.
In 2024, Linton resident Gillian Fraser proposed transforming the book into app-based, selfguided audio tours after experiencing similar initiatives overseas. The concept was enthusiastically supported by the Historical Society, with work commencing soon after using a carefully selected digital platform.
With funding from Golden Plains Shire Council’s Community Strengthening Grant, the project has now come to life, offering both locals and visitors an engaging and accessible way to explore Linton.
Three tours will be available at launch:
- Tour 1: A walking tour of Linton’s main street, providing an introduction to the town’s heritage.
- Tour 2: A walking or driving tour through Linton’s back streets, including the Avenue of Honour, churches, and Edinburgh Reserve.
- Tour 3: A driving tour featuring sites such as Linton Cemetery, the Firefighter’s Memorial in Kelly’s Lane, Flagstaff Hill Lookout, and Mortchup Road.
The tours have been trialled by Linton residents and visitors, with feedback helping refine the experience. As a living project, the tours will continue to evolve with updates and new information over time.
To support the launch, posters will be installed in Linton and flyers made available at local businesses. Information will also be available on the Historical Society website and Facebook page.
These will include instructions on how to download the app—its name to be revealed on launch day, as well as QR codes for online access. Assistance will also be available for those needing help with the technology.
Accessibility has been a key consideration, with all audio content also available in written form for those who are hard of hearing.
The initiative aims to increase visitation to Linton, deepen appreciation of its history, and strengthen community connection to the work of the Historical Society.
Launch Event
Community members and visitors are invited to attend the official launch at the Linton Community Hub on Sunday, 26 April at 11:00 AM. Attendees are encouraged to bring a smartphone or tablet (and optional earbuds or headphones). Morning tea will be provided, there will be friendly tech support on hand, along with an interactive quiz with prizes from local businesses.
Post-launch interviews
Jill & Gillian would be happy to discuss the audio tours in more detail after the launch. That way we can reveal information about the app that the tours can be accessed through.
Media Contacts:
Dr Jill Wheeler – President, Linton & District Historical Society
0439 895 939
[email protected]
Gillian Fraser – Editor, Linton News & Vice-President, Linton & District Progress Association
0404 376 384
[email protected]