Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia has announced a full week of cultural and culinary programming at Ayers Rock Resort to mark the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week.
Running from 6 to 13 July, the program celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous people, with a focus on the Aṉangu of Pitjantjatjara-Yankunytjatjara Country - the Traditional Owners of the land on which the resort operates.
This year's theme, 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,' highlights the importance of empowering future Indigenous leaders while acknowledging the legacy of their ancestors.
The program also leads into the 40th anniversary of the handback of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to Aṉangu, to be commemorated on 25 and 26 October 2025.
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia CEO Matt Cameron-Smith said NAIDOC Week at the resort is an opportunity for guests to connect with Indigenous culture.
"Through storytelling, art, and cuisine, we aim to provide guests with an immersive experience that celebrates the strength, vision, and legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," said Mr Cameron-Smith.
"We've curated a NAIDOC Week program that platforms some of the best and brightest Indigenous talent while providing opportunities for engaging, learning and understanding – enhancing our year-round commitment to responsible and respectful cultural tourism."
Culinary program highlights include;
Flavours of Country at Arnguli: A three-course set menu by celebrated Bundjalung chef Mark Olive, available throughout the week at Arnguli Grill & Restaurant. The menu features native bush foods and Indigenous wines. Bookings essential.
Exclusive Dinner with Mark Olive: On Wednesday 9 July, guests can dine with Mr Olive and experience the 'Flavours of Country' menu alongside stories and insights into the inspiration and ingredients. Bookings essential.
Bushfood Masterclass: Free sessions with Mr Olive on 7, 8 and 9 July from 11am to 12pm at the GoCA outdoor amphitheatre, showcasing native ingredients, techniques and storytelling.
Jarrah Boy Beer Tastings: Held at the Outback BBQ & Bar on 10 and 11 July from 4pm to 6pm, featuring Indigenous-owned Jarrah Boy Beer and native ingredients such as Desert Lime and Karkalla.
Art experiences include;
Desert Carvings: Live wood carving demonstrations by Aṉangu artists Billy and Lulu Cooley at the Town Square Circle of Sand on 12 and 13 July, from 1pm to 4pm.
GoCA Artists in Residence: Daily sessions from 11am to 12pm at the Gallery of Central Australia with artists from Iwantja Arts.
Guests can also meet the artists over afternoon tea, "Kapati," from 2pm to 3pm on 10 and 11 July.
Sunrise Journeys: A daily early morning experience combining laser projection, music and artwork by three local Aṉangu women, presented on Country. Bookings essential.
Cultural events and community activities include:
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Culture Day: On Wednesday 9 July, the Cultural Centre Inma Ground will host activities from 10:30am to 2:00pm. Guests can join the park team around the waṟu (fire) to learn about traditional tools, experience inma (song and dance), and join children's activities.
NAIDOC Markets: A community market at the Town Square Lawns on Sunday 6 July from 10am to 4pm, with stalls, food vendors, Maruku Arts dancers and live performances by local Aṉangu bands.
Culture at the Campfire: Traditional Owners will share stories, language and kinship at the Campground Campfire Circle on Monday 7 July and Thursday 10 July from 7pm to 8pm.
Next Gen at the Outback: Live music by The Violet Summers, a Yorta Yorta sibling trio, will feature at the Outback Bar on 6, 7 and 8 July from 5pm to 7pm.
Town Square Activation: A cultural display highlighting Indigenous stories, achievements and milestones in rights and recognition.
Indigenous Film Festival: Complimentary screenings at the Arkani Theatre throughout the week, including Charlie's Country and Bran Nue Day.
Further information, event details and bookings are available on the Ayers Rock Resort website.
