Exclusive look at Westmead Hospital’s first Augmented Reality tour session

Excitement and awe was in the air as The Pulse joined the first of Westmead Hospital’s groundbreaking ‘Past meets future’ Augmented Reality (AR) tours.

As part of Westmead Hospital’s 45th birthday celebrations, the tour showcases the history of Westmead Hospital through archival footage, documents, photographs and written historical information; combined with interactive design constructions of operating tables and other medical tools.

Guests of the tour included district staff, and western Sydney locals, who were taken on an interactive journey through areas of the hospital which the general public would not normally have access to, led by Dr Mark Priestley, Head of Department – Anaesthesia and Perioperative Medicine at Westmead Hospital.

Mark’s 40 years at Westmead Hospital were evident in his familiarity with, and knowledge of, the facility as he guided attendees through the six stations.

This is something that Annemarie Hannessy appreciated as a participant of the tour.

Having someone who had been on the journey with the hospital over the last 40 years was a really wonderful way to bring the site, and the history of the hospital, to life.”

“The technology really enhance the experience.”

“I loved it. I loved seeing the old pictures, hearing the stories. The stories that Mark was sharing at the tour stops really enhanced the experience. It was fantastic,” tour attendee, and Library Manager at Cumberland Hospital, Tracy McDonald said.

I highly recommend it.”

It’s not too late to participate in these tours, with places still available on Friday 24 November.

The tour is free to the public, with information about registration and booking available here.