Alice Springs
Centre of the Outback

Teaching Kids about Bush Tucker, Susan Doolan, Aputula NT

The friendly people of Alice Springs, the weather, the beauty of the town setting because it is a gateway to so many attractions, makes the Alice a must see destination.

Stay at one of the many quality motels, caravan parks or hotels in Alice Springs for a pleasant break from bush camping. Pick up the "Guide to Central Australia" booklet for up to date information and detail on everything there is to see and do in and around The Alice.

Replenish your supplies in the modern shopping centre and pick up a souvenir or two at one of the better galleries.

• My favourite attraction is The Desert Park, a magnificent mini Centralia, featuring all of the different environments and animals of Central Australia. This is a truly representative and informative visitor centre. Don’t miss the Nocturnal House, The Birds of Prey show and the movie.

My other favourites are

• The Strehlow Centre, a fascinating insight into and history of the Centre’s Aboriginal people.

• The Araluen Centre, which features several paintings by Albert Namatjira, the Outback’s most famous aboriginal painter.

• The Transport Hall of Fame features many of the vehicles that played an important part in settling the Outback

Don’t forget to include the attractions in the Eastern MacDonnells in you travels. Ross River, Arltunga, Trephina Gorge and the John Hayes Rock Holes are all well worth visiting.

Then follow the Western MacDonnells to Kings Canyon and Ayers Rock via the Mereenie loop. Don’t miss Redbank Gorge, my favourite.

No one writes much about the Aboriginal people in Alice. Some visitors may be shocked at the sight of drunken aborigines in the streets and in the Todd River bed. Many of these people are from alcohol free “dry” communities. They will come into Alice for a “holiday” now and then to have a drink and let their hair down. Most are gentle people and usually do more harm to themselves than to others.

One of the first Anangu words I learnt was “weeya” which means no! When approached by anyone under the weather I would answer with a firm “WEEYA”.

Be firm but respectful. Remember it is their country you are visiting. I have never had any trouble from aboriginal people in 20 years of visiting Alice Springs.

The Alice has a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Allow plenty of time there and you will certainly enjoy it!

Bush Tucker Australia, unknown artist, APY Lands

Alice Springs to Kings Canyon

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