As part of the Centenary of Federation Celebrations, one hundred of Australia’s youth from all ends of the country were given the opportunity to travel to Alice Springs, (and represent Australia as Youth Envoys) from September 5-9.

During the first few days we were able to learn about the diverse indigenous culture in Alice Springs, which was a really new and interesting experience.

Our sightseeing included a tour of the west MacDonnell Ranges, where we also had the chance to visit beautiful natural sights including Simpsons Gap and Orminston Gorge. The most amazing sight for me was Standley Chasm, where on either side of you, vibrant orange sandstone slopes rose 80 metres above the ground.

The festival began in the late afternoon of September 8. Thousands of traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander performers entertained the large audience as the sun set on the backdrop that are the MacDonnell Ranges.

Night fell, and thousands of children staged a dramatisation for Alice Springs, the land of the Yeperenye Caterpillar Dreaming story, a mixed ceremony of contemporary and traditional concepts that explored song, dance and culture followed by moving performances by artists such as Yothu Yindi, Christine Anu, Nokturnl, Slim Dusty and so many more.

On the following day more performances could be enjoyed along with artistic exhibitions and workshops. An unbelievable experience.

By Briana Jachin