The MoU, officiated by the High Commissioner to Singapore and facilitated by Australian company TRUE BLUE PRODUCTION and Global Cultural Alliance the managing entity of Battlebox, was signed in Singapore on 5 December 2024. The partnership is designed to lay the foundations for future collaborations in cultural tourism and educational initiatives between our two jurisdictions.
The signing also coincided with the launch of the second edition of The Darwin Digger at Singapore Comicon 2024. The comic book series is a collaboration between TRUE BLUE PRODUCTIONS and Darwin World War II Tunnels fusing history and heroism in a bold new 3D storytelling format.
Using augmented reality and AI, Comicon attendees can immerse themselves in scenes of bravery and sacrifice to relive these stories through the comic book.
Written and illustrated by Gareth Benson the second edition follows the AADFA Man - a superhero born from the shared challenges of the Fall of Singapore and the Bombing of Darwin - offering an engaging and educational exploration of history to modern audiences.
The story uncovers the history of Operation Jaywick which occurred in Singapore and the stories of resistance of both Singapore and Australia whilst under Japanese occupation during World War II.
Rob Marchant, Operator of Darwin WWII Tunnels said, “this collaboration with the Battlebox reinforces our shared commitment to preserving history while embracing innovative ways to connect with global audiences.”
Nicholas Tee, Head of Artistic Development at Global Cultural Alliance said, “we’re thrilled to be embarking on this partnership with our new friends from Australia, which furthers our commitment to telling the story of Battlebox in new and innovative ways whilst connecting our shared wartime history in the region.”
The Northern Territory Government, through the Global Trade Scheme assist in the support for these NT businesses to attend Comicon and form a partnership that blends historical storytelling with immersive technology to create impactful experiences.