Chapter 7

Crossing the WA/NT border called for a quick milestone photo — a quiet moment to acknowledge the journey so far. From there, the road stretched long and wide. The drive through Katherine toward Daly Waters carried the marks of recent rain — washouts, rough patches — a reminder to slow down, stay steady, and respect the road, no matter if the speed limit says 130.

After a solid 750km, we rolled into Daly Waters Pub — just as it was recommended to me. And it didn’t disappoint. An iconic outback stop, layered with stories, laughter, and years of travellers leaving their mark. The sign on the way in said it all: “Free range animals and kids crossing.” You can’t rush places like this — they ask you to pause, look around, and take it in.

Then it was back on the road toward Alice Springs, fuel stops along the way (and yes… watching those prices climb). A quick overnight stop to pick up a friend, and then onward to Yulara — where the next chapter of this journey was waiting.

Reflections in Yulara

While waiting a few days for Max to be fixed, I found myself slowing down again, moving between places, but also being present to what Yulara had to offer.

One standout was the Wintjiri Wiru sunset drone show overlooking Uluru — a powerful cultural storytelling experience bringing the Mala story to life through light, sound, and sky. It was breathtaking. One of those moments you feel in your chest.

The days were filled with simple, meaningful experiences — bush walks, star gazing under vast desert skies, learning circular breathing in didgeridoo workshops, painting, bush tucker, and quiet moments in between.

And Uluru… it has a presence that’s hard to explain. You find yourself always looking for it. Catching glimpses from different angles, in shifting light, changing colours. Each view feels like a different story.