In May, Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia will launch more than 1,000 luminous drones at Ayers Rock Resort. 

Called Wintjiri Wiṟu — meaning a ‘beautiful view out to the horizon’ in the local Aṉangu language — the show will tell a chapter of the Mala ancestral story accompanied by narration in the Yankunytjatjara and Pitjantjatjara languages. 

Onlookers will also hear recordings of traditional inma (ceremonies) from the local Aṉangu community. 

“We are honoured that we can share the cultural importance of the Mala story with our guests, through such an illuminating and captivating experience in the spiritual heart of Australia,” Voyages CEO Matthew Cameron-Smith said. 

“As custodians of the land and this part of the Mala story, the Anangu consultation group has carefully guided us on the Wintjiri Wiṟu experience, from conception to launch, to generously share their story with the world.” 

Designed and produced by media architecture studio RAMUS, Wintjiri Wiṟu will illuminate the Central Desert with lights, projections, and lasers, while connecting the earth and sky in the presence of Uluṟu. 

This will be the first time a drone, light, laser, and projection experience of this size will be performed regularly anywhere in the world. 

“We are delighted to be working with RAMUS through their light installations, projections, lasers and incredible drone technology, which coupled with the spine-tingling soundtrack of the Anangu inma, brings connection through a shared memorable experience,” Cameron-Smith commented.  

“We hope the Wintjiri Wiṟu show will nourish visitors’ thirst for a deeper spiritual connection with this very special part of Australia.” 

Take Your Pick From Two Shows 

Two shows will run every night until December with two different experiences to choose from. 

Beginning at sunset, the signature Wintjiri Wiṟu Sunset Dinner starts with welcome cocktails and canapes and views of the sunset over Kata Tjuṯa and Uluṟu. A gourmet dinner hamper celebrating native ingredients and premium Australian wines follow. Once darkness has arrived, the light show will begin. 

A second show, After Dark, is shorter and consists of an hour-long experience with light refreshments. 

The Wintjiri Wiṟu Sunset Dinner is priced at $385.00, while After Dark is priced at $190.00.

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Lead image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia