This achievement was marked with great fanfare by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese when he personally attended the 40th anniversary of the Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa handback. He broke new ground by becoming the first sitting prime minister to participate in this critical event. The beautiful ceremony took place at Uluru, Ayers Rock. This hugely important site was carved out of the earth by the Anangu people and it has enormous spiritual significance. The return of title deeds to Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa occurred in October 1985. This event became a historic turning point in the Aboriginal land rights movement, representing hope for recognition and justice for all Indigenous Australians.
The return of Uluru to the Anangu people was one of those historic moments. It recognizes the historical and ongoing relationship Tribes have with their ancestral land. The Anangu thus entered into a 99-year lease agreement with the Commonwealth in 1985. This compact provided for a unique joint management structure that continues to operate today. Uluru is an internationally recognized symbol of Australia, holding a special place in the landscape. It stands today as one of the last powerful testaments to the deep cultural heritage of its traditional custodians.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
The opening Poetry Slam celebration began with a breathtaking sunrise initiative experience of Uluru. This incredible backdrop provided the perfect setting for stirring performances by Indigenous dancers and musicians. Attendees came together to share the beauty of their culture and acknowledge the importance of the land they occupied.
Shaeleigh Swan, the first Anangu woman to manage the park, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to oversee such a sacred site. She stated, “It’s an honour to be in this position, it’s been a great opportunity to reflect.” Her role exemplifies the ongoing commitment to ensuring that the Anangu’s voice is central to the management of their ancestral lands.
Alison Carroll, Senior Counsel for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, was there for the original handback ceremony in 1985. She reminisced on the incredible strides taken since that landmark occasion. She pointed out that the formal acknowledgment of Indigenous land title has played an important role in promoting reconciliation in Australia.
A Powerful Moment in History
In his recent address, Albanese underlined how significant Uluru is in framing Australia’s national story. He remarked that “Uluru stands tall in the story of our nation,” emphasizing its role as a “powerful moment” in land rights history. Albanese acknowledged that “Change is hard, but progress occurs — it doesn’t occur in a straight line, and it’s not easy.” His words struck a chord with many attendees as they honored the successes and struggles of Indigenous Australians.
The Prime Minister connected with the Anangu people through language, stating, “Ngayulu-na pukul-pa kuwari Anangu-ku mantangka tjunguringkula ngaranyi,” which translates to “I am happy to be together [with you] on Anangu land.” This simple act highlighted his personal dedication to ongoing reconciliation and honouring Indigenous culture.
Selena Kulitja, an Anangu elder, recounted her experience meeting King Charles in London earlier this year to celebrate the anniversary. Her journey was a testimony to the world’s awareness of Uluru’s sacredness and the continuing struggle for Treaty and Indigenous rights.
A Vision for the Future
The convening was bursting at the seams with pride over past victories. Perhaps equally important, it gave space for imagining a future based in respect, reciprocity and collaboration. Albanese’s remarks reinforced this vision: “All Australians are welcome here — the whole world is welcome here,” he said. He concluded by affirming that “There is room for all of us,” emphasizing inclusivity and shared stewardship of Australia’s land.
As Ricky Archer, who tours responsibly to preserve Uluru per the traditional owners’ land wishes, recently stated. He highlighted the need for a better partnership between the Anangu and the state and federal governments. This partnership is incredibly important in maintaining the cultural integrity and natural beauty of the site.
