Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has joined the Anangu people at Uluru to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the landmark handback of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. The party marks four decades since the conventional owners were granted title to the sacred site on October 26, 1985, and assumed responsibility for its management.
The anniversary event recognizes a pivotal moment in Australia’s reconciliation journey, acknowledging the deep cultural and spiritual significance of Uluṟu to the Anangu people. the handback followed a decade-long campaign by the Anangu to regain control of their ancestral lands,culminating in a historic agreement with the Commonwealth goverment. Today, the park is jointly managed by the Anangu and Parks Australia.
Alison Carroll, a representative of the Anangu people, expressed her joy at welcoming visitors to the site. “It’s for everybody, to come here and to see this rock and be happy,” she said, as reported by ABC News. She added,”People love to come here.” Carroll highlighted the anniversary as an prospect for travellers to experience the landmark and learn the “sacred stories” surrounding it.
Prime Minister Albanese conveyed his deep honor at being the first prime minister to attend a handback anniversary celebration. “We thank you for your patience, we thank you for your grace, and we draw together in happiness,” he stated, acknowledging the Anangu people’s enduring connection to the land.
The celebrations coincide with the transition from the Northern Territory’s dry season to the wet season.
