Of note, Uluru, is actually about 6 hours away so that will need to be another visit!
The Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist facility – since 1928 the RFDS has provided emergency meducal services to those who live, work and travel throughout Australia. A life size hologram of John Flynn describes his vision, the history and development to now. Really enjoyed the displays including the real time map of planes in the air.
ANZAC Hill-a great view of the McDonnell Ranges, the Ghan at the station, Alice township and the memorial to our soldiers.
National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame- a national museum dedicated to the place of women in history and their contributions to Australia’s heritage.
Alice Springs Reptile Centre- fascinating. Saw Thorny Devils, Goannas, Snakes of too many kinds, Lizards, Geckos and Terry the saltwater crocodile. Impressive knowledgeable operator, humorous as well and Terry was on form.
Had lunch at Alice Springs Desert Park, an area set aside to showcase the desert. The park sits on Mparmtwe, the traditional lands of the Arrente people and is part of the Akngwelye (Wild Dog) story. Unfortunately we did not get to see The Festival of Lights, Parrtjima, currently showing there on the walls of the McDonnell Ranges.
A visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air, that developed in 1951, by maximising the early airwaves of the RFDS, showed similarities to our Correspondence School arrangements albeit without the on-air lessons now of course using the latest technologies. Remote families receive about $15k of gear including a satellite dish to allow connection.
The highlight of our visit to Alice was an outback dinner under the stars at the heritage Overland Telegraph Centre. The Telegraph Station operated for 60 years. A beautiful setting with mellowed stone buildings, gum trees, lights, interpretive displays, history lessons and great dinner set up. There were even camel rides in a tribute to the cameleers and their camels who helped to open up the interior. The camel trains crossed 600 kms across the desert to deliver essential provisions to Alice Springs from Oodnadatta. The railway line from Alice to Adelaide was completed in 1929 and replaced camel trains. The line did not reach Darwin until 2004!
The camel is the symbol of The Ghan. And yes we had a camel ride! We were well entertained during the evening by a band and a fabulous astronomer who was witty as well pointing out planets, stars and the constellations. Awesome.
Another traveller’s view – yes fear of the snakes is real!
