Palya,
We are proud to share the news that Ayers Rock Resort has proudly achieved both Advanced Ecotourism and Respecting Our Culture Certification to become the first ECO Certified business of 2024.
Furthermore, the certification has been achieved in the year we are marking Ayers Rock Resort's 40th anniversary. Ayers Rock Resort's certification compliments Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre's Advanced Ecotourism and Respecting our Culture certifications. Mossman Gorge is also recognised as a Green Travel Leader for more than ten years of certification.
Operating in some of Australia's most sensitive ecosystems and culturally significant destinations, obtaining Ecotourism certification supports Voyages' goal of ensuring these locations are protected for future generations to experience and enjoy.
Alongside the sustainability initiatives of an onsite solar field, drive-through recycling centre and wildlife conservation programs, Ayers Rock Resort offers respectful and responsible cultural tourism in the spiritual heart of Australia, the iconic Red Centre. Simply by staying at Ayers Rock Resort or experiencing one of Voyages' many tours, unique dining experiences and art, visitors can experience Uluru in immersive ways whilst supporting local communities, contributing to cultural preservation and leaving a low-impact environmental footprint.
A strong commitment to social responsibility means ongoing investment to support the improvement of cultural tourism facilities, as well as Indigenous training and employment across Australia. By visiting Kulata Cafe, at Ayers Rock Resort, guests help to empower a growing Indigenous workforce by providing on-the-job experience for trainees of Voyages'.
The National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA), now in its 11th year, has seen over 650 young Indigenous and Torres Strait Islanders graduate with market-leading qualifications in tourism and hospitality.
Through the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA), remote communities throughout Central Australia benefit from direct and ethical art sales, with 22 Indigenous community Art Centres now showing their artists' works at the gallery.
Cultural sustainability at Voyages also extends yo tours and experiences. Notably, Ayers Rock Resort is home to the ground-breaking Wintjiri Wiru, which sees choreographed drones, lasers and projections take flight to illuminate the desert sky with an ancient Anangu story. Visitors can see and hear, in local Pitjantjatjara language, the ancient Mala creation story, immersing themselves in living history and connecting them authentically to Country and culture.
We look forward to welcoming your clients at Voyages Advanced Ecotourism and Respecting Our Culture certified locations.
Best Regards,
Peter Graham
Director of Sales & Partnerships
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia