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For The Classroom: Uluru — A Sacred Icon of Australia

Uluru is Australia’s most iconic and culturally significant natural landmark. Rising majestically from the red sands of the central Australian desert, Uluru is not just a remarkable natural formation — it holds deep spiritual importance for the Anangu people, the Traditional Owners of the land.

Uluru is located in the heart of the Northern Territory, within the boundaries of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This vast, arid landscape is a stunning contrast to the vibrant red monolith that rises 348 metres above the ground and stretches nearly 9.4 kilometres around its base. It’s a geological wonder — over 550 million years old — and its red hue comes from iron oxidation on the rock’s surface. Beneath this surface, Uluru is grey, a testament to its ancient formation.

Cultural Significance

For the Anangu people, Uluru is not just a landmark but a living entity, intricately connected to their Dreamtime stories or Tjukurpa. These stories describe the creation of the world and are passed down through generations, embodying the cultural laws, spirituality and identity of the Anangu. Many of the caves, rock formations and markings found on Uluru tell these stories and visitors are encouraged to respect the sacred nature of this site.

In 1985, a historic moment in Australian history occurred when the Australian government officially handed back the ownership of Uluru to the Anangu people. This was a significant step in recognising the deep connection Aboriginal peoples have with the land. Today, the park is co-managed by the Anangu and Parks Australia, ensuring the protection of both its cultural and environmental significance.

Protecting Uluru’s Ecosystem

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is not only home to Uluru but also the spectacular Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a series of large, domed rock formations nearby. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for both its cultural and natural value. The surrounding ecosystem is a haven for unique Australian flora and fauna, including spinifex grasses, desert oaks and a range of reptiles, birds and mammals adapted to the harsh desert environment.

The co-management of the park ensures that Indigenous knowledge plays a central role in conservation efforts. Protecting Uluru and the surrounding environment is not just about preserving a tourist attraction — it’s about safeguarding a landscape that has been integral to Aboriginal culture and life for thousands of years.

Facts About Uluru:

1. Ancient Formation: Uluru is estimated to be over 550 million years old, formed through geological processes that shaped the Australian landscape over millennia.
2. Height and Size: Uluru stands 348 metres high — taller than the Eiffel Tower and has a circumference of about 9.4 kilometres.
3. Spiritual Importance: Uluru is a sacred site for the Anangu people, whose Dreamtime stories and cultural laws are deeply connected to the land.
4. Colour Changes: Uluru is famous for its ability to change colour, particularly at sunrise and sunset when it glows in shades of red, orange and purple.
5. No Climbing: Climbing Uluru has been banned since October 2019, respecting the Anangu’s long-standing request to preserve the sanctity of the site.
6. Ownership and Co-management: The land was returned to the Anangu people in 1985 and it is now co-managed by the Anangu and Parks Australia.
7. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for both its cultural and natural significance.
8. Rock Art: Ancient Aboriginal rock art can be found on Uluru, depicting Dreamtime stories and historical events, some dating back thousands of years.
9. Kata Tjuta: Uluru is not alone — Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) is a nearby formation of domed rocks that is also culturally significant and part of the same national park.
10. Visitors and Respect: Uluru draws over 300,000 visitors annually, and respecting its cultural significance is vital to preserving its integrity for future generations.

Uluru is far more than a remarkable natural formation — it is a living testament to the enduring culture and spiritual connection of the Anangu people. As spring approaches and Australia’s landscapes begin to bloom, there’s no better time to visit or learn about Uluru, keeping in mind the importance of preserving its cultural and environmental legacy. By exploring Uluru respectfully, we not only witness one of Australia’s greatest natural wonders but also gain insight into the rich history and cultural traditions that define this sacred land.

Learn more about Muru Mittigar Cultural Training and Education Programs for schools — contact our office at (02) 47 300 400 or info@murumittigar.com.au.