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NORTHERN TERRITORY Uluru- Ayers Rock
Uluru is undoubtedly one of Australia’s prime tourist attractions and is recognised as one of the Wonders of the World and a World Heritage Site. It is situated in central Australia, in the southern part of the Northern Territory. It is magnetic ‘island mountain’ (or inselberg) made of sandstone, 348m high, 863m above sea level and 9.4km in circumference. Most of its bulk is actually situated below ground level. It has much spiritual significance attached to it by the local Aboriginal tribes, and is considered to be sacred by the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara tribes. Interestingly, it is situated on a major planetary grid point, much like the ancient pyramids.
The rock comprises springs, waterholes and caves. The walls of the caves and the rock faces bear testimony to ancient cultures as they are painted and engraved with rock art, telling tales of the lives and customs of old-world tribes.
Not only is this area rich in historical and geological significance, but it is also home to many interesting species of plants and animals. There is even a variety of bush foods that grow in and around Ayers Rock. These combine to provide an eclectic range of fascinating sights, sounds and flavours. Some of its existing residents include the mole, Woma Python and Great Desert Skink as well as at least 7 species of bats, the Red Kangaroo, Bush Turkey, Emu, Sand Goanna, House Mouse, camel, fox, cat, rabbit and Perentie.
The Uluru or Ayers Rock is known for its ability to ‘change’ colour. As light falls on its contours at different times of the day, the rock varies between a vibrant red to a serene grey to a haunting shade of lilac. When the rain occasionally falls on this rock, its silver mound becomes streaked with black algae water channels.
Over 400 000 visitors from all over the world visit Uluru every year. While this benefits the site in terms of the income it generates for its further sustainability, it also threatens it in terms of the ecological impact. It is for this reason (of environmental conservation), as well as for the fact that the rock is considered sacred, that visitors are requested not to climb it. However, it is not an official prohibition and many visitors choose to venture up the structure and view the magnificent surrounds from atop.
The allure of Uluru or Ayers Rock is one that stems not only from its natural beauty and impressive size, but also from its deep religious and spiritual significance in the hearts of the local Aboriginal tribes. This lends it an aura of intrigue and mystique.
For more info, please vist: http://www.environment.gov.au/parks/uluru/ |
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