9 July 2024
A captivating new documentary on the making of Uluṟu’s cultural storytelling sensation, Wintjiri Wiṟu, will air on Qantas Inflight Entertainment from July 2024 as part of the airline’s special NAIDOC collection.
NAIDOC Week is celebrated in July each year to honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Titled ‘An Ancient Story Takes Flight’, the short film brings viewers behind the scenes of the award-winning show at Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru, which uses 1100 drones and cutting-edge laser, light, and sound technology to tell an ancient creation story of the Aṉangu – the Traditional Owners of Uluṟu.
With Uluṟu as its backdrop, the documentary offers a glimpse into how ancient tradition and modern technology fused together to bring the show to life, and how Aṉangu guided Ayers Rock Resort through the project — setting a new, world-leading standard in respecting Indigenous Intellectual Property protocols and Indigenous consultation.
Matt Cameron-Smith, CEO Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, says: "Uluṟu and Qantas are Australian icons, so it feels like a natural fit for this special film to take flight and premiere on board Qantas.”
“We’re grateful to Aṉangu for allowing us to share their story, and for their guidance throughout Wintjiri Wiru’s phenomenal journey."
The only other place to view the film is the Arkani Theatre at Ayers Rock Resort, from NAIDOC Week onwards. The film screenings will join a suite of NAIDOC events held from 7 July to 14 July, including a Pop-Up Australian Native High Tea, themed dinners, Jarrah Boy beer tastings, markets and live bands.
For more information on Wintjiri Wiru, visit your local travel agent, www.ayersrockresort.com.au or phone 1300 134 044.