Designed as a relaxing, afternoon respite after a morning’s exploration — particularly during warmer months — this 1.5-hour experience is offered daily at Ayers Rock Resort’s luxe accommodation option, Sails in the Desert, starting at $75 for adults and $45 for children.
Sunrise Journeys – the all-new immersive Indigenous laser, light and sound show that celebrates connection to Country – has premiered in the spiritual heart of Australia, Ayers Rock Resort, 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.
Art, Nature and Culture – A Modern Homage:
A deep understanding and appreciation of the natural environment is intrinsic to Aṉangu culture.
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).
Titled Ngura Nganampa Wiru Mulapa, which translates from Pitjantjatjara to English as ‘our Country is truly beautiful’ the painting depicts a modern telling of the artists’ shared connection to these lands.
During Sunrise Journeys, this painting is interpreted on the desert landscape using laser, light and video projections, while narration from the artists themselves enhances guests’ understanding of the rhythms of the natural world.
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 accompanying musical score is composed by local Aṉangu musician, Jeremy Whiskey, from Indulkana community in the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara-Yankunytjatjara Lands.
Cutting-Edge Tech in the Outback
The group’s creative efforts have been brought to life by Australian visual experience teamMandylights.
World-leaders in light artistry, the organisation has illuminated iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge as well as creating the large-scale ‘Dark Spectrum’ installation for Sydney’s Vivid 2024.
As one of the world’s most remote locations, the landscape of Uluṟu brings both unique challenges and opportunities for technological artistry.
At a sustainably constructed open-air amphitheatre, six 30w lasers, seven 12kw projectors and 30 bright field lights work in tandem to tell the 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.
“When the audience witnesses finches emerge from the bush plants, a flock of cockatoos rise in laser lights, and the rippling lines of dry creek beds and sand dunes, they are seeing elements from the original artwork brought to life with the latest animation technology,” says Richard Neville, CEO, Mandylights.
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,” says Matt.
The two new experiences are just more options for a visit to Uluṟu, with over 100 tours and experiences available includingWintjiri Wiru – the award-winning nightly show that sees 1000 drones to tell an ancestral chapter of the Mala story; Field of Light by world renowned artist Bruce Munroe and the recently hatted dune-top fine-dining experience, Tali Wiru.
“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.”
“For thousands of years, art has played such an important part in telling Aṉangu stories and keeping culture strong. Artwork painted in this region now hangs in galleries all over the world, so we’re thrilled to be able to showcase this piece in such a unique way – here, in its desert home.”
The 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, with the 2024 menu featuring Quandong Chia and Coconut Pudding; Smoked Kangaroo, Vintage Cheddar and Bush Tomato Croissant and Australian Chai tea.
Sunrise Journeys is timed conveniently before flight schedules to allow guests to fit in a morning tour even on departure day.
Australian Native High Tea
Also debuting at Uluru on is the new afternoon culinary experience celebrating Indigenous flavours from Central Australia and beyond —Australian Native High Tea.
Guests can enjoy Lemon Myrtle Northern Territory Barramundi Tart, Yulara Salt Bush Caramel Tim Tams and Wild Rosella Flower Mousse, paired with fine teas from Blak Brews—recent winners of ‘Australian Food Stars’ with Gordon Ramsay — coffee and Australian sparkling wine.
For more information, visit your local travel agent,www.ayersrockresort.com.au or phone 1300 134 044.
