New indigenous experience, Sunrise Journeys, opens at Uluṟu

The early morning sensory experience transforms the desert landscape into a giant canvas the size of three football fields (200m by 300m), as a modern Indigenous artwork is interpreted into a kaleidoscope of colour and sound using state-of-the-art animation technology that showcases the artistic expertise of Aṉangu — the Traditional Owners of Uluṟu.

The two-hour story telling experience sets the scene for nature’s most spectacular show — the dawn of a new day as Uluṟu glows fire-ember red. 

Central to Sunrise Journeys is a bespoke painting created by three renowned female Aṉangu artists — Selina Kulitja (Maruku Arts), Denise Brady (Kaltukatjara Art), and Valerie Brumby (Walkatjara Art). 

Denise Brady, Kaltukatjara Art, says of the Sunrise Journeys collaboration: "Our hearts burn with passion to share our Country and knowledge with the world. We have created Sunrise Journeys to invite people into our culture and share our way of life."

The group’s creative efforts have been brought to life by renowned visual experience team Mandylights.  At a sustainably constructed open-air amphitheatre, six 30w lasers, seven 12kw projectors and 30 bright field lights work in tandem to tell a spectacular visual story. Meanwhile a state-of-the-art audio-surround system with spatialised audio tracks gives audiences the sensation of being completely immersed or surrounded, as they would in a movie theatre.   

The modern yet culturally rich encounter expands on Ayers Rock Resort’s commitment to community engagement, leadership and respectful tourism. The company set an industry benchmark for Indigenous collaboration and respecting Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property (ICIP) with the launch of Wintjiri Wiru in May 2023, and Sunrise Journeys continues this commitment.

Matt Cameron-Smith, CEO of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia (operators of Ayers Rock Resort, Uluṟu): “Sunrise Journeys elevates our commitment to authentic, meaningful and responsible cultural tourism. It’s a real honour and privilege to be able to work with leading artists of the region and share their unique connection to the natural environment.”

Commencing 1 August 2024, the daily, two-hour Sunrise Journeys experience is priced at AUD$125 per adult and AUD$75 per child. It includes return coach transfers and a seasonal breakfast.