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Leaving Darwin behind us we headed south on this historic train. Originally the Afghan Express, the name The Ghan was inspired by the pioneering Afghan cameleers who blazed a permanent trail into the Red Centre over 150 years ago.
Refreshing way to travel watching the scenery wizz by in comfy reclining seats and no hassle toilet stops.
Katherine and Tennant Creek were the only stops, the latter at 1am so missed that one completely before we arrived in Alice. Without too much mucking around back in the car for the 5 hour drive to Yulara the town which was purpose built to accommodate tourists visiting Uluru.
Some fires which had been burning for over a week around Alice were still ablaze but under control. We passed several small fires and lots of smoke close to the road. So much smoke Mt Conner which is a table-topped mountain 3 times the size of Uluru was hidden in a smoky haze.
Then all of a sudden you see her and she doesn't disappoint, breathtaking!
Saw her at dusk that night, again at dawn, then joined a guided walking tour around her base. Captivating tour about the Anangu traditional owners and the geology of the rock. The guide explained why the Anangu request no climbing but unfortunately people still do. Thankfully it was closed due to strong winds so we didn't have to witness anyone attempting to.
Kata Tjuta which means many heads is 43 kms to the west and is just as impressive. We walked through the Valley of the Winds to the 1st lookout Karu then onto the 2nd lookout Karingana. The Anangu held ceremonies at Uluru but place more importance at Kata Tjuta where they held initiations.
A huge 12 hour day but worth every minute.
The red centre didn't disappoint with it's fauna either. Liam and Izzy were amused by the spinifex hopping mice who ran amuck each evening around the camp site. Vorney was hysterically squealing at first sighting but she soon came round. These native mice are really cute but a field mouse plague has been causing havoc in the area thankfully we haven't come across any of them.
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brian sounds brilliant