Today was an early, early start. Out of the door by 6.45 and have to endure 2 public transport changes (two buses and a tram) on our way to the airport. We're going to Uluru - Ayres Rock.

In the airport very early, but after an uneventful 3 hour flight, we land in Australia's big 'red centre'. First impressions are... It's just so... RED!

One thing to note, the pilot definitely took an interesting descent down - in order to allow both sides of the airplane to see Uluru / Kata Tjuta. Top bloke.

We pick up our latest hire care (a Mitsubishi no less) and drive down to our hostel. Can't check in yet however, as our (dorm) room is still being prepared (it's 12.00 local time!)

Decide to check out the complex here. Amongst other things, it has a Post Office, Pub, Supermarket and Visitors' Centre. Apparently this township - Yulara - is the FOURTH largest township in all of Northern Territory, created entirely to serve the tourism trade to the neighbouring Uluru - Kata Tjuta national park.

Driving down to the park ourselves, we pay our entry fee for two days at the booth. We see Uluru in the distance. It's incredible already. But we first start our experience with a little background information in the Visitor centre.

This isn't your normal Visitor Centre however, for reasons that quickly become apparent. It's an aboriginal Visitor Centre first and foremost.

We start with watching a long 70s video from the aboriginal perspective. After its recounts the Aboriginal dreaming stories associated with Uluru, it's pretty damning of the white man. Highlights the impact of tourism at this place from the 50s onwards, and struggle to reclaim the land as theirs. In the 1980s, Bob Hawke's Labor government finally gave it back. Well, gave it back, but immediately leased it back to the National Park so that tourism could continue.

Watching this video, and reading the local Anangu's pleas, we sign a book pledging that we won't climb Uluru. Unsurprisingly, the Anangu see Uluru as a sacred place.

Did circuit of Uluru in the car, and stopped off to see aforementioned walking track. Wow, it is STEEP! Attached to the rock underneath are some plaques commemorating those tourists who have died attempting to climb the rock - 35 people to date.

Oh, and there were FLIES.

We drove around the rest of the site, noting that particular sides of Ulruru were considered sacred, where no photos were to be taken.

Walked a small walking track to the waterhole. There were FLIES.

Positioned ourselves for the stunning sunset overlooking Uluru, a few km away. It was incredible. Orange to Red to Brown. More FLIES and then LOTS MORE FLIES. By the time the sun had gone down, these insects we literally covering our faces. It was horrid. We must buy a face net thing tomorrow!!

Back to the Hostel / Resort for dinner. Mushroom and Steak soup. Simple. Tasty.

Quick stargaze a short walk from the resort. We can see the Milky Way from here!! The night sky is one of the best things about Australia.

Then, bed. Early start tomorrow... we want to see the sunrise!!

AF