Celebrations are taking place in the Red Centre of Australia to mark the 40th anniversary of the handback of Uluru to the Anangu people. The return of ownership of this iconic landmark, along with nearby Kata Tjuta, occurred on October 26, 1985. This significant event symbolized a crucial milestone in the recognition of Aboriginal land rights in Australia.
During the initial handback ceremony, then-governor-general Ninian Stephen presented the title deeds for Uluru to the Anangu Traditional Owners. The weekend’s festivities include traditional songs, dances, and artistic displays, reflecting the cultural richness of the Anangu heritage.
Prime Minister Albanese Reflects on Historical Significance
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is participating in the celebrations, emphasizing the profound significance of this event. Speaking at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Albanese remarked, “Forty years ago, after decades of exclusion, the Anangu’s rightful relationship with this place was finally recognised.” He highlighted the Anangu’s decision to share Uluru with the world, inviting tourists and visitors to appreciate its beauty and cultural importance.
The joint management agreement signed in 1985 allowed the Anangu to lease the land back to the Australian Parks and Wildlife Service for a period of 99 years. This agreement followed extensive lobbying by the Traditional Owners for the recognition of their rights and set a precedent for similar land handbacks across the country.
Albanese characterized the handback as “a milestone in Aboriginal land rights and a powerful moment in the story of our continent,” expressing gratitude to the Anangu for their “patience” and “grace.”
Cultural Celebrations and Community Impact
Among those attending the celebrations is Anangu woman Alison Milyika Carroll, who recalls witnessing the handback ceremony alongside her father. “This rock belongs to Anangu and is for everybody,” Carroll stated. She expressed joy at the influx of visitors who come to explore and appreciate Uluru, affirming the importance of sharing their culture with the world.
Shaeleigh Swan, the first Indigenous manager of the national park, described the handback ceremonies as an opportunity to honor the elders and their efforts to secure land rights for future generations. “They really wanted to make change for the land rights for all the grandchildren and the future generations,” she reflected.
As the park’s management continues to thrive under joint stewardship, board member Craig Woods noted that tourism around Uluru has created numerous opportunities for the Anangu community, including the sale of art and traditional artifacts.
The celebratory events on Saturday featured traditional dance performances, a concert with local and national musicians, and an art exhibition showcasing Anangu culture. Children adorned in traditional face and body paint participated in dances, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere at Uluru’s sunrise viewing site.
Millions of visitors flock to Uluru each year, making it one of Australia’s most recognizable tourist destinations. On Sunday, Governor-General Mostyn will unveil a plaque commemorating the 40th anniversary of the handback, further solidifying the significance of this historic event.
