Stories : Northern Territory
Respect the Landlord
The Aboriginal people around Alice Springs are the Arrernte, and there are about a dozen different language groups in the Red Centre. The traditional owners are not a tourist attraction and many still live a semi-traditional life. Some sacred sites are restricted and should be respected. You don’t need a permit to travel on public roads within Aboriginal land, but you shouldn’t go off road or camp without permission. Also ask permission before taking photographs and respect Aboriginal ‘dry areas’ that prohibit alcohol. Many indigenous people, while shy, are happy to share their knowledge and custom. Do your own bit towards true reconciliation.
Having lived in Vanuatu for a few years, I believe the racial harmony there is due to white people having the attitude that they are fortunate to be accepted as visitors/residents by the ni-Vanuatu. It’s a difficult concept for many white Australians to grasp – that they are actually visitors/residents in a country that’s been occupied by the Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years. About half of Central Australia is under custody of Aboriginals, and half of Alice Spring’s economy is dependent on the indigenous community.
