Ayers Rock, Northern Territory - Sept. 30

After our sunrise wake-up in the bush, and our hike through the Olgas, we felt we'd had a full day (and one without a shower . . .). It was windy, and our next stop would be Ayers Rock. We were hoping to climb it, but the park folk will close it if the wind is too high. Our fingers were crossed. The temperature was climbing, so after our hike, some salami and cheese sandwiches and plenty of water, we made our way across the desert to the Rock itself.

p.s. $25 per person entry fee to come into the National Park of Ayers Rock. I'm just sayin'.

Anyway, once at the base of the rock I saw two things. First, it was closed due to wind. Second, there would have been no way I could have climbed up, for reasons everyone is well familiar with after reading this blog. The rock is exactly that, a rock that shoots straight up. There is a chain that one hangs on to to go up. My hands are literally sweating just typing this right now! No boulders on the "pathway." No brush or bush along the "pathway" to break a fall. Just sheer cliff drop off if you dropped. Sweat, sweat. Not for me. But the guys, at least were disappointed. Jolyn was quiet in the seat behind! Was she shaking her head to Aaron? Whispering, "I don't think so?" Mouthing, "Darn, I'm disappointed?" I didn't know. I just knew I wasn't going up for nothin'!

To appease his tour group, Mulga took us on a walk along the paths at the base of the rock nearby to sacred areas and discussed mystique and lore surrounding the amazing rock. It is truly incredible, jutting out from the earth with miles and miles and kilometres and kilometres to go before reaching anything in any direction (except for the Olgas and Kings Canyon, but they dwarf in comparison).

We walked and took photos, but it was really hot. We'd hiked the morning, the rock was closed, and we were ready for the visitors' center and a Coke. We loaded up the bus, settled in to make our way for the quenching drinks and necessary postcards.

The rangers turned the signs around and opened the Climb.

Pat and Aaron practically leaped over us to clamour their way out the bus and up that rock. They were among the first of any of the tourists (most had driven on, as it was now 3 p.m or later). They were beat by Mulga's son, Tiger, aged 10. He made it up and down wearing Crocs plenty ahead of anyone. Little Ruby hung back with us, making sure the bus was safe. She'll climb it next year when she's 8. Diantha and Jolyn were the support team and photographers . . .

Now, I'll post some photos, since it's a-maz-ing. But I'll let Pat tell the story. Let's just say Aaron and Pat's faces in the photos say it all!