Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Larapinta Trek - Day 5 - Ochre Pits and Glen Helen Resort

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The pits consist of several layers of multi-coloured, layered rock that was traditionally used by Australian Aborigines in ceremonies and played an important role in the continent's economy, being traded with neighbouring clans and "countries", in every direction on the continent.


The mine belongs to the Western Arrernte people. Prior to European settlement of the area in 1880, only certain men were qualified to collect the ochre.




It was considered some of the choicest ochre - soft to touch, vivid, with a slight sheen to it. The colours range from gold to crimson.




After the ochre was mined by the Western Arrernte, it was ground and mixed with Emu fat for ceremonial body adornment.


































Glen Helen Resort
Our choice was to do another trek at along the Finke River, which is the oldest river in the world.   OR go to Glen Helen Resort and. if you paid $2.00, you could take a shower.   Since I had not had a shower in 5 days, I went for the shower. 

A campground just outside of Glen Helen...wow, magficient!






Rebecca and Jen sitting in front of the "resort".


around the back of Glen Helen Resort


around the back of Glen Helen Resort






2 comments:

Anonymous said...

This is a long trek you did and I was wondering when is the end but glad you're having fun over there.
- Mas

YankeeGirlInAustralia said...

Is this my biking friend - Mas? I was sad that you went back to home and I wasn't able to say good bye.

I just looked at your website. You are the most incrediable photographer! Wow, I am in awe!!!

To answer your question, it was a long trek....7 days....but, not as long as it is taking me to post the pictures!

It's great to hear from you - stay in touch!