Silver to Sea Way

We conducted extensive primary and secondary source research to establish the unique values for the Silver to Sea Way trail and the towns it passes through: Crystal Brook, Caltowie, Port Pirie, Gladstone, Jamestown, Yongala and Peterborough. From our research, we selected the most powerful and compelling stories that could be linked to interpretive design. We also researched existing tourism in the region and identified areas for potential growth. The research also tested assumptions about touring routes, which we cross-referenced with desk research. We then developed a set of preliminary visitor experiences (a) for the whole Silver to Sea Way region and (b) for individual towns. The stories, themes and designs were tested as part of an extensive user testing via online qualitative research, running with 20 participants over the course of a week.

Interpretation of the Silver to Sea Way touring route includes a colourful and evocative suite of signage. Each town’s signage features a character that is important to its respective location, such as the elephant that arrived in Peterborough during the 1920s with Wirth’s Circus. This approach was validated by our user research. Interpretation also includes an activity book aimed at primary school aged children with a quiz based on the interpretive signs, colouring-in and word finding activities, to encourage families to explore each town.