Central Australia

Over the last school holidays, 40 Year 11 students and five staff members had the incredible opportunity to visit and explore the Northern Territory.  Over the course of the 11 days, we had the privilege to learn and appreciate Australia’s past, understand the culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and explore the beautiful outback of Australia.

Some of the highlights of our trip included visiting Watarrka National Park and hiking in the home of one of the Northern Territory’s most spectacular gorges – King’s Canyon.  We hiked to the top of the canyon rim where we saw the red sandstone walls, natural rock pools and beautiful views, including the Garden of Eden which was a place of peace and reflection.  We also hiked around Uluru and watched it from the Sunset Strip to see the many colour changes of the rock during a sunset.  We learnt about the traditional owners of Uluru and how their stories resonate with markings on the rock, demonstrating the historical evidence these stories left behind.

Our amazing tour guide, Michael, and cook, Deb, also took us to Daly Waters – a place not on the itinerary but was a highlight for all.  Michael taught us the story of John McDougall Stuart who was known for traversing the Australian mainland from south to north and returning.  Visiting the small town, Daly Waters, and its iconic pub that was built in the 1930’s, was an incredible experience where we got to interact with the locals, animals and see memorabilia left by visitors from across the world.

We had the opportunity to go on discovery and wildlife cruises where we learnt the cultural significance of the traditional landowners of the stunning Nitmiluk Gorge and saw crocodiles and native birds.  On the last day in Darwin, we got to relax on a harbour cruise, watching the city go by and soaking up the sun, after an amazing time at the Mindil Beach Markets the night before.

From watching a breath-taking sunset at Uluru on the first night, to hiking around the landmark, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, visiting historical museums, going on cruises and finishing up in Darwin, we all had the time of our lives, making memories that we will never forget.  We want to extend a huge thank you to Ms Moloney, Ms Aherne, Ms Chapman, Ms Bracciale and Ms Rogers who put in a lot of hard work and time into this adventure.  To our Central Australia travellers, thank you for an unforgettable trip full of laughs, friendships and memories!

Alicia Vu