Deep in Australia’s outback, weekend ceremonies and celebrations mark 40 years since a symbolic high point for Aboriginal land rights.
The handing back of the great rock Uluru and Kata Tjuta to Traditional Owners in 1985 recognised the spiritual connection of the sites to the local Anangu people.
Also known as Ayers Rock, the anniversary of the sites’ return was marked by King Charles and Anangu representatives at Australia House in London on October 16.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will join anniversary events in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and deliver a speech on Saturday.
He will reflect on the “deep honour” of being the first prime minister to attend a handback anniversary in his address.
“Forty years ago, after decades of exclusion, the Anangu’s rightful relationship with this place was finally recognised,” he will say.
“And the Anangu responded by choosing to share it with all of us.
“Tourists flock to it, rangers care for it. All Australians are welcome here. The whole world is welcome here.”
In a video message to the King, the prime minister described the handback as a milestone in Aboriginal land rights and a powerful moment in the story of Australia.
“Around the world, Uluru is instantly recognised as Australian,” Mr Albanese said.
“In Australia, it stands as a monument to our people’s love for the country and their determination to see justice done.”
The King, then Prince Charles, visited Uluru in 1983 accompanied by Princess Diana.
On October 26, 1985, then governor-general Ninian Stephen handed over the title deeds for the rock to the Anangu Traditional Owners.
They then signed an agreement leasing the land back to the Australian Parks and Wildlife Service (now the Director of National Parks) for 99 years.
Uluru is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is one of the most recognisable natural sites in the world.
Millions of people visit every year, making it one of Australia’s most popular tourist sites.
Celebratory events will be held on Saturday at the sunrise viewing site, including traditional dance performances and a concert featuring local and national musicians.
On Sunday at the Mutitjulu community, Governor-General Sam Mostyn will unveil a plaque commemorating the 40th anniversary of the handback.
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