26 June 2025
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia is proud to announce a vibrant program of events at Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru to commemorate the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week.
From 6-13 July, guests are invited to immerse themselves in a week-long celebration honouring the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly the Anangu of Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Country - the Traditional Owners of the land on which Ayers Rock Resort operates.
This year's theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, emphasises the importance of empowering future Indigenous leaders while paying tribute to the enduring legacy of their ancestors.
Ayers Rock Resort’s NAIDOC Week program serves as a powerful precursor to the 40th anniversary of the historic handback of the title deeds of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to Anangu, to be commemorated on 25 and 26 October 2025 – a landmark moment in the journey of cultural recognition and land rights.
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia CEO, Matt Cameron-Smith says NAIDOC Week at Ayers Rock Resort provides guests with the opportunity to honour and engage with the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture.
"Through storytelling, art, and cuisine, we aim to provide guests with an immersive experience that celebrates the strength, vision, and legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We’ve curated a NAIDOC Week program that platforms some of the best and brightest Indigenous talent while providing opportunities for engaging, learning and understanding – enhancing our year-round commitment to responsible and respectful cultural tourism,” he said.
Throughout the week, a wide range of cultural and culinary activities will be held around the resort for all to enjoy.
Culinary Highlights
Celebrated Indigenous chef Mark Olive of Midden at Sydney Opera House returns to Ayers Rock Resort following his role co-curating the Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner menu. His ongoing partnership with Ayers Rock Resort continues to spotlight native Australian ingredients and elevate Indigenous culinary storytelling on Country.
- Flavours of Country at Arnguli: Throughout NAIDOC Week, Arnguli Grill & Restaurant will feature a specially curated three-course set menu by Mark Olive. This dining experience celebrates native bush foods and Indigenous wines, offering guests a unique taste of Australia's rich culinary heritage.
- Exclusive Dinner with Mark Olive: On Wednesday 9 July, guests will have the unique opportunity to dine with Mark Olive himself. This intimate evening includes the signature NAIDOC Week 'Flavours of Country at Arnguli' menu, complemented by stories and insights from Olive about the inspiration behind each dish and the significance of the ingredients used. Bookings essential.
- Bush Food Masterclass: Join Chef Mark Olive to discover the power of native ingredients in a complimentary masterclass where bushfoods meet tradition, technique, and storytelling. GoCA outdoor amphitheatre on 7, 8 and 9 July, 11am-12pm.
- Jarrah Boy Beer Tastings: Sample unique beers from Indigenous-owned Jarrah Boy Beer, featuring native ingredients like Desert Lime and Karkalla, at the Outback BBQ & Bar on 10 and 11 July, 4pm-6pm.
Art Experiences
- Desert Carvings: Witness the artistry and storytelling of wood carvings by the fire with renowned Anangu artists Billy and Lulu Cooley at the Town Square Circle of Sand on 12 and 13 July, 1-4pm.
- GoCA Artists in Residence: Experience the energy of Iwantja Arts at the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA) with bold brushstrokes, strong stories, and contemporary works rooted in Anangu Country and culture from 11am-12pm daily. Guests can also enjoy "Kapati," an afternoon tea with the artists, from 2pm-3pm on Thursday on Thursday 10 and Friday 11 July.
- Sunrise Journeys: Connect with Country and be awakened by a stunning piece of artwork created by three local Anangu women as the desert landscape comes to life each day through laser projection, music, and the natural environment. Bookings essential.
Cultural Events and Activities
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Gather around the waṟu (fire) and immerse yourself in the living culture of Anangu. Join the National Park team on Wednesday 9 July at the Cultural Centre Inma Ground from 10:30am to 2:00pm for a day of culture, connection, and community activities. Learn about traditional working tools used by watiku (men) and minymaku (women), experience traditional inma (ceremonial song and dance) performed on Country, and enjoy plenty of activities to keep the tjitji (children) entertained.
- NAIDOC Markets: Town Square Lawns will host a celebration of community and culture featuring market stalls, food selections, Maruku Arts dancers, local Anangu bands, and more. Sunday 6 July, 10am-4pm.
- Culture at the Campfire: Gather by the fire at the Campground Campfire Circle as Traditional Owners share stories, language, and kinship in a night of connection for all ages. Monday 7 July and Thursday 10 July, 7pm-8pm.
- Next Gen at the Outback: Experience live performances by The Violet Summers, a dynamic Yorta Yorta sibling trio, at the Outback Bar 6, 7 and 8 July, 5pm to 7pm.
- Town Square Activation: Explore a special display offering a glimpse into the depth and diversity of Indigenous culture, celebrating stories, achievements, and milestones for Indigenous rights.
- Indigenous Film Festival: Enjoy a complimentary selection of Indigenous films, including "Charlie's Country" and "Bran Nue Day," with multiple screenings throughout the week at the Arkani Theatre.
For more information about NAIDOC Week at Ayers Rock Resort, including event schedules and bookings, click here.
