Climbing Uluru or Not!

Before I write about our journey to Uluru and Kata Juta I wanted to share my thoughts on a historic decision that happened just after our visit here.  David and I have visited Uluru twice (in 2004 and this time).  Both times we listened to the Anangu people and did not climb the rock:

Please don't  climb Uluru

"That's a really important sacred thing that you are climbing... You shouldn't climb. It's not the real thing about this place. And maybe that makes you a bit sad. But anyway that's what we have to say. We are obliged by Tjukurpa to say. And all the tourists will brighten up and say, 'Oh I see. This is the right way. This is the thing that's right. This is the proper way: no climbing."

— Kunmanara, traditional owner

 

We also learnt, while we were there this time, that the climb was damaging the rock and its precious waterholes.  All the waterholes around Uluru are so polluted by the urine and excrement (yes really) left by the climbers that the animals no longer drink there.  I was so worked up about this I was ready to take it up with a range of politicians and green groups on my return. 

But I didn’t have to.  On 1 November 2017 the decision has been taken to close the climb and protect the rock.  As you read on hopefully I can give you a small understanding of how amazing this place, this icon, this heart of Australia is.  We wanted everyone to know that we think this is the right decision.  Critics say this will reduce the numbers of people visiting Uluru.  Well I say we didn’t climb either time and it is still one of the most amazing places we have ever visited.  If you have the opportunity to visit – DO IT!  Don’t do a day tour – stay and explore.  There is a lot to see and learn in this special place.

You can read about the recent decision at

https://www.environment.gov.au/mediarelease/uluru-climb-close