The rainy weather granted us a once in a lifetime sight. Witnessing water pouring from the cracks and crevasses of the rock and watching the sun rise next to Uluru turning the rock to a glowing red, are moments for which I will be forever grateful.
We left Pitjantjatjara Country and headed to Lilla, a remote community. We met with a local Indigenous man named James who performed a smoking ceremony welcoming us to Country and providing us with protection for our stay. James showed us to a stunning private water hole where we all sat in silence to take in the beauty of our surroundings and reflect upon our time on Country. He also cooked Kangaroo tail for us, which is a delicacy for Indigenous People. The cloudy weather lingered and allowed us to hike the picturesque King’s Canyon in comfort, which was a highlight for many in our group.
We then travelled to Alice Springs and visited a reptile centre. Snakes slithered around our shoulders and blue tongue lizards crawled up our arms while we learnt about the reptiles. We also swam at the stunning but freezing Ellery’s Creek. On our last day, as we headed towards Alice Springs Airport, I felt a sense of relief to be able to finally sleep in my own bed but sadness to be leaving Central Australia. It was a once in a lifetime experience that I would recommend to anyone. The connection I felt to Country and nature during this experience will stay with me forever. Thank you so much to everyone who made this trip possible and to my peers who made it so special. Palya Central Australia!
Lana, Year 11 Djeembana
