Day three at Uluru had begun with the Helicopter Tour. We then filled in the day by browsing the town centre shops for souvenirs, walking around the resort and taking in some of the awesome free activities. One of which was the incredible Mani Mani Theatre. You cannot take photos or video in the theatre, however we were completely blown away with the sheer brilliance of the story telling and interpretive dance. If you don’t stop in to see this you really are missing an incredible experience.
Our more relaxed, somewhat less strenuous day, was going to end with A Night at the Field of Light. This experience combines the popular Sounds of Silence dinner with British artist Bruce Monroe’s 50 000 light display, making for a totally unique and simply awesome evening.
Collected from our hotel, the AAT Kings coach took us to a secluded sand dune area, not far from the resort, tucked away behind the camel farm. After disembarking from the coach,you head up the sand dune to be met with trays of bubbly and smiling welcoming staff. Ok, you have my attention now, this is looking pretty good!!
Glass in hand, mingle with your fellow tour participants, as the sun beings to drop down below the horizon for the night. Your backdrop is Uluru, which changes colour as often as the light reflections do.
Raise a toast to the rock as you witness an almost silent sunset. The only noise out here, are the soft murmur of voices, a light clinking of glasses, punctuated only with the clicking of cameras and burst of laughter. Quietness envelopes you, very different from city life where noise is a constant reminder of life moving on.
Trays of canapés are offered to all. Smoked kangaroo, crocodile, poached prawns, rosella and caramelised sweet potato are on offer to tempt your tastebuds. As the sun begins to disappear on the horizon, participants move location, with a short walk down to the area set up for your 5 star dinner.
A brilliant red carpet moves beneath your feet. Your ceiling this evening will be an incredible array of night stars. Gas heaters dotted throughout the white linen covered tables, will help to keep you warm. That group of strangers you are being seated with, will be your interesting companions for the evening.
Darkness falls as tables are filled and relaxed diners greet their fellow table companions. Staff check with each diner to ensure their choice of drink is catered for throughout the evening. Warming tomato and thyme soup is then served to the tables. Enjoy your entree, its a nice way to warm the insides as the temperature drops.
Each table is soon asked to head to the buffet, where you help yourself to a wide selection of food. On the menu tonight you have kangaroo, lamb, barramundi, chicken, vegetables and salad. Menu items are clearly named so pick your choice, head back to the table and savour those bush tucker flavours mixed with your choices. The beautiful sounds of the didgeridoo provide a soothing background to the laughter and chatter.
Finish your dinner with a variety of delicious sweets. By now you are full, cannot eat another thing. The flowing alcohol has relaxed everyone with friendships forged and stories shared.
Beneath your sand dune, the field of lights below has sprung into life, with colours becoming more prominent through the evening.
After dinner, as all the man made light is extinguished, the incredible canopy of stars above your head comes to life. An onsite astronomer runs you through the constellations and planets twinkling peacefully above. As the laser points out specific areas, you are completely in awe of canopy of diamonds. With no man made light to interrupt, the sky above is absolutely exquisite. Never will you see something as brilliant as this from a brightly lit city.
Tonights interesting astronomy lesson draws to close, patrons have utilised the best long drops you will ever see in your life, and before you know it, the time arrives to wander through the field of lights.
Glasses are left behind, staff begin to clear the tables as you all take your cameras to immerse yourself in this incredible display.
The brainchild of British artist Bruce Monroe, this immersive coloured light experience covers 49000 square meters. 40 people took six weeks to plant the different coloured solar powered stems. 
Wander through the snaking paths. There’s a long or a short route. I chose the short route, only to give myself more time to stop and take photos.
You really cannot describe the feeling as you wander through the baubles of light. It is immersive, it is soul restoring.
As patrons emerge from the other side of the field, your waiting coaches display their resort destinations. Choose the coach you need and before long, you are safely back at your accommodation.
Another perfect end to a perfect day. It’s an early start tomorrow, with a Desert Awakenings tour starting the day, before a wander through Kata Tjuta.
Sleep easy, dreaming of sparkling stars and lights. Tomorrow is the last full day at this amazing outback destination.
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Now, when you book this tour they do ask for approximate weights of each passenger. However, on the day you are also asked to stand on the scales prior to boarding the bus, holding everything you are taking on the flight. So be warned, make that weight as accurate as possible! The weights are then calculated by the pickup driver to work out where you will sit in chopper to ensure even weight distribution. Yes and its right about now, all that tasty outback damper and tucker you’ve been enjoying, comes back to haunt to you!
Our friendly driver takes photos for the previous group, refuels the helicopter and calls us over for our ride. Those blades aren’t stopping anytime soon, whirling happily waiting to lift the chopper of the ground again.
We had chosen the 30 minute flight which took us out by Uluru itself as well as Kata Tjuta. As we hadn’t been to either as yet, (those tours were tomorrow), this tour was a very interesting and great way to get the lay of the land.
After leaving the airport, we headed across the resort to towards Uluru itself. As we drew closer, you could see what an incredibly imposing sight this monolith was the air. Our pilot ensured everyone could see each angle, by manoeuvring the whirly bird around and changing side views so we all had the opportunity to take photos.
At every angle the view changed, showing the many varying parts of this incredible multi million year old monolith.
The faint grey trail you can see heading up Uluru on the first outcrop in the middle of this photo, is the chain railing which was installed by Peter Severin of Curtin Springs Station so people could climb the rock. Peter was asked to install this at knee height which he did, to his knees, but unfortunately, no one allowed for the fact Peter is not that tall, hence the chain is quite low to the ground!
Leaving the rock behind for now we headed towards Kata Tjuta, or Mt Olga as the tallest peak is known. A mass of different 
Red sand dominates from up here, with long, mainly straight roads heading into the distance. This one below us is closed to the public and accessible only by the local community men as it leads to a very sacred area where the boys are taken for their initiation into manhood. The area is so sacred, females of the local community will not look, or shield the view with their hands if they are travelling past at anytime.
As we fly alongside Kata Tjuta, the randomness of these formations becomes very apparent.
There is one point behind the mass, where you can see the three in a row. Away in the very background, right on the horizon you can just make out Mt Connor, in the middle is Uluru and right in front of us, Kata Tjuta. They actually all line up in a straight line which is somewhat fascinating in itself.
Here too, the colours change with the light. From bright oranges to moody greeny greys, the colours you see are quite intriguing.
After being wowed by this mass of rock peaks, we begin our return to the airport. Our pilot points out the way to Darwin and Perth, and showing us the salt lakes in the distance. This area was many years ago an inland sea. Before long, the coral reef which still remains, is just below us, stretching for kilometres across the landscape.
From up here the reefs are actually very obvious, quite incredible to think this entire area was fully covered by seawater. Hence the salt lakes which contain the salt left behind after the water evaporated.
Oh theres the airport, relief! The ride has been very smooth, not really any bumps and sudden drops, luckily!
Our driver is waiting, with the next group safely encased inside the van, as we commence that really long, slow hover just above the ground, before finally chopper gently meets tarmac and we are back on firm land again.
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Located around halfway between Alice Springs and Uluru, you are now truely in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Made up of layers of sandstone intercepted with hard shale, rising 270 metres above sea level, with areas plummeting down to the surprisingly lush Garden of Eden. This 400 million year old natural wonder, is a place of great significance to the original land owners, the Karrke local indigenous community. The Karrke people welcome you to respectfully climb, touch and explore, always keeping in mind the history and natural environment. Their only request being, do not swim in or touch the waters. Always be sure to respect the local communities wishes, these places are sacred to them and to allow tourists to visit something we might not otherwise get to see or experience is most generous.
Our bus dropped us in the car park next to the Canyon. It didn’t look too bad from the car park……! Here again though we were warned it was to be a strenuous walk for the next three or so hours, in particular the 500 steps up to the top. Some of the tour chose to stay on the bus and do the easier walk at the base of the Canyon, but the rest, we chose to complete the challenge.
Mitch gave us all a safety brief at the bottom, warning of the dangers, making sure everyone understood as well as emphasising these were the last amenities for the next three hours, so use them! But, most importantly, explaining how the emergency stations worked, and drumming home for us all to remember to take note of where the last station was as we traversed this natural wonder. Ok this is getting real now.
Yes, there are people climbing those steps. Look very small doesn’t they. This perspective gives you some idea of how steep the steps are. For those considering doing this, I’ll give you some insight as to how I worked up to this. Eighteen months ago I would not have even attempted this as I was on the surgeons list for two hips surgeries. However, in that time, I had not only built up my fitness, I had worked through the pain & challenges involved with a year of physio, followed by six months of PT sessions, to the point I could now complete 1000 steps on gym stepper in 10 minutes. The only difference being, the stepper was even and symmetrical. What for me was the most challenging about going up? Not the steepness or the number of steps, it was various heights and natural rock formations which proved challenging. My length of stride was still shortened, but at least I had fitness on my side.
Stopping along the way to look down and see how far we climbed, as well as snap some shots, I was by now, one of the stragglers at the back, letting those with the long easier strides, bounce ahead. In fact this was to be case throughout the walk with myself and a very highly entertaining 68 year old lady named Helen, who was also a photographer, as we kept up a the rear all morning. Mostly because we saw so many incredible photo opportunities, and as any photographer knows, you just have to stop and capture those shots.
After making those final steps which were high ones, we gathered at the top, slowed the heart rates, took those once in a lifetime photo memories, then continued along the top of canyon. Everything I had read, everyone we had spoken to, said that once you get to the top its flat. Actually its not. In fact, traversing the top is still a matter of watching your stepping, with some easier rounded walking areas, but still plenty of steps and clambering.
Before too long we were at the infamous 
With chilly night air carpeting the outback, we left the warmth of our hotel and comfortable beds for the trip to Kings Canyon, which started from the hotel at 4:30am. During the planning for the whole trip, we knew this was going to be the biggest day and it did not disappoint.
Ivor carefully guided the comfortable coach along the deserted outback highway. Mitch added the extra set of eyes for wildlife spotting. Yes certainly seemed like we were in good hands, so oh well, yawn and catch a few zz’s for most. Not for me, I find it very difficult to doze when travelling, but was happy to chill and watch the road ahead.
Kings Creek Station is a working cattle & camel station, settled in 1982 by Ian & Lyn Conway. Ian is the grandson of an early indigenous pioneer, whilst Lyn was born in Adelaide. They met in Alice Springs. The station is around 1800 square kilometres, 1700 of which are Crown land, the remaining 110 square is freehold. In the vastness of Australia’s outback, this working station is considered to be a mere hobby farm. Out here, 250 acres is required to maintain 4 head of cattle. That’s a lot of land for not much return.
Over the years, the station has evolved from a working cattle station to becoming the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia, as well as tapping into the lucrative tourism market.
Often, Ian will come down and join the tour visitors for breakfast, but unfortunately on this occasion he was not at home. I love to not only delve into the history of how things came to be, but to speak with those who were involved. What you can learn is infinite, knowledge is an incredible part of our life.
Leo is the part dingo dog who might be hanging around the breakfast station whilst you visit. He’s allowed your scraps but only if he sits and shakes. Leo didn’t see that as a problem and was most happy to oblige. Unfortunately for Leo, this hearty breakfast was exactly what I needed to start a day which had some physical challenges ahead. Sorry Leo, you missed out on mine!
Charlie on the other hand is the white cockatoo who has his residence on tree branch outside the cafe. Charlie is a little more dismissive, choosing to pose or interact only if it suits him. He’ll let you know if he’s had enough, either turning his back or chewing at the shade cloth whilst always keeping one knowing eye on what you are doing. 
To me it would have been an absolute treat to spend a few days on this station. But thats not what today was about, and by 7:15am we had vacated this oasis on our way to traverse Kings Canyon, located around 36kms away. I’d love to come back to this area and really delve into the workings, its hard to do something like this justice when you’re just passing through.
Fantastic viewing from so close to your accommodation, with all the platforms an easy 5-10 minute stroll from the ring road, this one right opposite our accommodation.
Well thats encouraging, not only does the camel look to be smiling slightly, he looks very placid. Or does this mean a bit of cat nap makes for a lively camel?? Hmm…
Seated quietly in their two rows, the camels showed little interest as this new group approached. The cameleers were fantastic help and very encouraging, assisting everyone to mount their ride correctly. Starting at the back of the line, the last camel’s riders mounted first, with their camel standing up when instructed. This continued on down the line, until the cameleer took the lead camel. In our case, it was the friendly Bella who would lead us on tonight’s adventure.
Oh and did I mention, of course we were on the back camel and the first to mount. Positive side I guess, you do get to spend more time on your ride. Ours was Darcy, who’s name we changed to Mr Darcy, for the duration of the ride, purely out of respect of course. Tonight I was the back rider, with one in front, oh well there went those shots down through the camels ears I’d been hoping for, but that was ok, I could see it was going to be even more of a challenge, taking manual photos from this position, and still holding on. Challenge accepted.
Meandering our way across the farm, we had the informative Chloe walking alongside our camel caravan, answering questions as we slowly became accustomed to the odd movement underneath where one side moves, then the other. If you’re a horse rider, its not going to make any difference, these guys are in a world of their own.
As you sit atop your personal viewing platform, which moves occasionally as the odd camel fidgets or changes position, causing a domino effect to the back of the line, you cannot help but be mesmerised by the beautiful scene playing out in front, but also the silence. No noisy traffic highways out here. The silence is like a blanket covering the vast scene laid out around here. Describing in words the feeling you have on this experience, is impossible. You need to live it, but hopefully, this helps to immerse you in what it feels like to be atop one of these incredible creatures, as the sun plays a colourful game on the land, all coated in silence broken only by light conversation from your group and the occasional sliding plop of camel toes, gliding across the red sand.
I feel the best days are those which begin with a sunrise viewing and ends with a sunset. For me, these are the two best parts of any day and a wonderful time for quiet reflection. One day I will have a house with verandah which allows for both of these special times to be viewed in peace.
After those final thank you’s and grateful pats, the blood flow returns to your legs, feet and extremities, which you may have forgotten about since you have been spending time in the unnatural position across the camel. Now you can head into the warmth of the shop for your food and beverage treats.
Day One in the Outback is now done and dusted. Slipping into the comfy beds, after being retuned to our hotel, it was time to recharge those tired batteries for the big day planned tomorrow, a drive out to climb Kings Canyon. This will be a two part article as there is so much content to cover. Sweet dreams!
Sails in the Desert was our accommodation choice for this trip. Located on the ring road that makes up the resort, Sails was clean, comfortable and had the added bonus of being an Accor hotel, for those Accor Plus members looking for discounts on meals, or looking forward to your free welcome drink. Wifi is available, free to a certain download amount each day, but if you are on an Australian plan, you will probably find your own internet connection quicker.
Certainly nothing wrong with these meals!
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