Darwin, 17 December 1918. More than a thousand residents marched on Government House and demanded the removal of their administrator. They won. It is the only successful civilian revolt against a government appointee in Australian history — and almost nobody knows it happened.
It started with a pub. In 1915, NT Administrator John Gilruth nationalised Darwin's hotels, watered down the beer, and dismissed the barmaids. When he refused workers time off to celebrate the end of the war, the mood turned. Within weeks, the Territory's most audacious political act was underway.
Walk Darwin CBD as a junior reporter for the Northern Territory Times. You've been sent to cover what looks like a licensing dispute. By the time you reach the Esplanade, you'll have uncovered something much bigger.
- GPS-guided walk through Darwin CBD's 1918 rebellion route
- Audio narration across two characters — The Editor and Harold Nelson at the march
- Augmented reality ghost crowd on the Esplanade — the march, reconstructed
- Video reveal — the union man before he addressed the crowd
- Cipher puzzle and sly-grog network mechanic
- Digital collectibles at every stop, from common to legendary rarity
- Works entirely in your phone's browser — no app download required
This experience takes place on public footpaths and open spaces in Darwin CBD. Always be aware of your surroundings when using your phone outdoors. Not recommended after dark.