We’re going to focus on Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon here. We’re limiting our words because we believe these unique, spiritual places need to be quietly and respectfully experienced.
Uluru rises from the desert and is a monolithic presence. It has spiritual significance for Indigenous people, which you can learn about in a tour with cultural leaders. If you are lucky enough to be there on one of the few days it rains, you’ll see a surprising transformation of colours. Know that the practice of climbing Uluru is now banned for cultural reasons. Instead, take a walk around the base of Uluru and discover unexpected water holes and native trees.
Uluru’s place in Indigenous culture is underlined in its choice for the gathering which resulted in production of the ‘Uluru Statement from the Heart‘ seeking constitutional recognition for Australia’s first people.
Kata Tjuta is less well known, but equally part of the National Park and within easy reach of Uluru, approximately 50kms away. It’s a mysterious, spiritual place that echoes with thousands of years of Indigenous presence. Walk slowly and listen to whispers in the wind. Be aware that Uluru and Kata Tjuta can both be closed to keep visitors safe in very hot weather.
King’s Canyon is approximately 3 hours drive from Uluru so consider if this is a day trip, or an overnight stay. The rim walk overlooks the canyon and beyond. There’s an initial climb up the stairs, but once you’ve accessed the rim the views are forever. Stay away from the edge, there’s no safety fencing and you’re a long way from a hospital! Worth seeing.
Broome is located on the northwest coast of Western Australia. It’s high on the list of travellers ‘doing the lap’ and driving around Australia. During the high (dry) season it’s possible to fly from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. The journey, Perth to Broome (and onwards all the way through to Darwin), is regarded as an epic road trip, and takes you either along the coast, or else through remote outback Australia. If you’re thinking of driving, know that it’s more than 2000kms from Perth.
‘The Yawuru people are the Native Title holders for the townsite of Broome… Yawuru country is land and sea moulded by the cycle of seasonal change… The influence of the pearling industry, with its cultural melting pot, has helped to create the distinctive character and charm of Broome…’ Shire of Broome.
Here on the far edge of Australia, looking west over the Indian Ocean, you’ll find dinosaur prints that are thought to be millions of years old. Landscape, seascape, history and culture make Broome an interesting destination to sample.
