Red Earth Cultural Immersion

Read their daily journal of the Red Earth Cultural Immersion here:

First day on Country: Tuesday 23 September

By Year 10 students Isaac M, Dylan W, Dylan R, and Henley M

“Today was a day filled with new sights, sounds and a deeper connection to the land. We flew out from Sydney early this morning and touched down at the Uluru Airport, where the vastness of the desert landscape hit us right away.”

“After the hike, we made our way to camp back on the bus and set up our swags under the sprawling, open sky. We all sat quietly, taking in the vastness of the land and the quiet power it held, reminded of the deep cultural significance this place holds for the local Aboriginal peoples.”

Day Two: Travel to Kulpitharra

By Hugo M (Year 9)

“We started with an early wake up at 5.45am, walking up to the camp lookout point to admire the Central Australian sunrise, the sky inscribed with soft hues of red and gold blanketing the ever-stretching environment.”

“After nine hours of driving, we finally reached the campsite, the feeling of excitement being evident in the cabin. At the campground we were greeted by Billy and his family, an Aboriginal elder sharing his culture with other communities and teaching the ways of the Traditional Owners.”

Day Three: Maku and more

By Luke Z (Year 9)

“We went hunting for maku (witchery grub). This experience was very educational and enjoyable, learning and practising our maku-hunting skills.”

“After lunch, we set up our painting area. While painting, we were taught by Keturah about integrating rock formations and nature in our stunning artworks. Later, we collected firewood for cooking the kangaroo tails and maku. The maku tasted like scrambled eggs and a bit of popcorn and was surprisingly tasty.”

Day Four: Culture and language

By Year 10 students Isaac M, Henley M, Dylan W and Dylan R

“We hiked to one of Billy’s sacred places, which was a watering hole where Billy grew up with his family. This spot meant a lot to Billy and his family, and we were lucky enough to be the first outsiders to have seen this magical place full of stories, dreams, and good times.”

“The group thoroughly enjoyed learning their favourite words that they can now all say in Luritja! Some of the words were difficult to pronounce but after a few quizzes and some practice we were off and speaking to Billy in his own language.”

Day Five: Kings Canyon

By Hugo M (Year 9)

“Today was a fun and lively day for the group as we moved to a new campsite and said goodbye to Billy and Keturah, who had spent the last three days with us teaching about First Nations cultures and their way of life. We thanked Billy and Keturah for their incredible hospitality and for sharing their deep cultural knowledge with us, which left a lasting impression on everyone.”

“After our farewell, we began a long three-hour road trip to Kings Canyon. Following was the highlight of the day, which was the hike through the canyon. This began with a steep 30-minute stair climb that had most of us using both hands and feet to make our way to the top. Once we reached the summit, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the canyon. The vivid reds and oranges of the rock formations contrasted beautifully with patches of greenery peeking through the cracks.”

Day Six: Uluru

By Year 9 students Hugo M and Luke Z

“Standing before Uluru was something else entirely. Massive. Timeless. It almost didn’t feel real. We joined a guided tour of the Mala Walk, led by a member of the Anangu people, the Traditional Owners of the land. His voice carried both strength and gentleness as he shared stories and teachings passed down for generations.”

“Looking up at the stars later, I couldn’t help but feel small, but in the best kind of way. There’s something powerful about being here, in this ancient place, surrounded by friends, stories, and sky.”

Student Reflections

Aidan S (Year 9)
“I really enjoyed searching for and eating bush tucker, as well as the amazing land we were hosted on and shown around.”

Year 9 students Heman Z, Luke Z and Hugo M
“We really enjoyed learning the traditional ways of hunting for bush tucker and doing artwork with Keturah. We were taken to sacred and special places by the Traditional Owners who were hosting us. We loved sleeping under the stars, a unique and special experience for us all.”

Luhain S (Year 9)
“I loved learning about the traditional culture and eating traditional foods. The kangaroo tail was definitely new to me and I learned so much from these experiences.“

Dylan W (Year 10)
“I learned so much and had a great time. It was fun listening to all the stories around the campfire, learning about our hosts and their life On Country.“

Oliver C (Year 9)
“I am grateful for the sharing of knowledge about hunting and gathering, as well as visiting secret waterholes. I am especially grateful for Keturah because Billy ate all our grub and Keturah did not!”

Dylan R (Year 10)
"I was thankful for Billy, Traditional Owner of the land we stayed on, for hosting us, sharing his knowledge, and showing us some of the sacred places. I really enjoyed the lessons and the land around us."

Max W (Year 9)
"It was a great experience. I appreciated learning about the amazing culture and language. I enjoyed trying new bush tucker foods, including kangaroo tail and the honey ants, they were tasty! The land is beautiful, and I feel very grateful."