I dragged my sick and sorry ass off the bed to catch the early afternoon bus, only to inform the driver I was going back to bed and would catch a later bus. That made it too late to do the base walk but I was more than impressed with the short walk it explored. Uluru is stunning and I felt an immediate connection with it. Like an old friend welcoming you with a big hug.

Out of respect for the traditional owners I had no intention of climbing it. There has been a lot of work put in place to provide walks and information around the base and they've done a really good job. It's clearly signposted where the sacred sites are that are not to be photographed.

Once again, the vivid colours really had an impact. Wow! And I was surprised to see so much lush greenery. And the wildflowers, well, I was just tickled pink. I'm also a bit of a sucker for the late afternoon light shining through grasses. My first up close and personal encounter with the rock was very rewarding. (It helped that the cold and flu tabs were kicking in too)

Back on the bus to see the sunset now. The bus drivers throughout the day have all been lovely, however a little bit ironic in the afternoon to have a young Indian bus driver sharing the history of the rock.