After a leisurely Easter holiday, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge ventured to Uluru, formerly known at Ayer’s Rock, in the Northern Territory of Australia. They embarked on a four hour plane ride to the middle of the country to enjoy the natural wonders of the area.

Uluru was once owned by the indigenous people of the area, but is now a major tourism hub. The main attraction is the rock itself: an ancient sandstone rock formation, which is considered a sacred space by the indigenous people. In addition to Ayer’s Rock, the area features springs, watering holes, rock caves, and prehistoric paintings. Unsurprisingly, the area is listed as an UNESCO world heritage site.

William and Catherine planned this day to get to know the indigenous people of Australia. Australia has a long history, long before British rule, and their rich indigenous culture is a highlight of their identity. The events allow the Duke and Duchess to learn about the indigenous culture and lives of the indigenous people.

National Indigenous Training Academy

The first event of the day took William and Catherine to the National Indigenous Training Academy. The academy trains members of the indigenous communities near Uluru in tourism and hospitality.

Due to the isolated nature of the area, tourism and hospitality are very important trades for locals, especially at the Ayer’s Rock resort. Around 100 students graduate each year, and the National Indigenous Training Academy hopes to employ at least 350 indigenous people within four years. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited the school’s facilities, which are situated in the small town of Yulara. Their Royal Highnesses met with students, staff, and graduates who successfully completed the program.
Kate looked radiant, wearing what looks to be a bespoke version of the Roksanda Illinic Lovina dress (you may remember the same dress worn in gray back in 2011) in a dusty lilac colour that compliments the gorgeous colours of the Australian outback sunset.
She accessorized with her LK Bennett Sledge pumps, McQueen clutch and some Asprey London charms. She was dressed quite appropriately for the scorching desert temperatures .
If you’re finding yourself inspired to pick up a Spring dress in the fetching colour of an Australian sunset, here are some to consider:
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Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre

Immediately following their visit at the National Indigenous Training Academy, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge ventured to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.

William and Catherine viewed a “Welcome to Country” ceremony, performed by members of the local indigenous communities. These people have strong historical and spiritual ties with the area.
The Duke and Duchess also viewed various art displays, created by locals, at the Cultural Centre.
Kate changed into her Hobbs London Gray and White dress previously seen in the lead up to the 2012 London Olympics. She accessorized with her well-loved Imperia wedge heels and was gifted with a gorgeous traditional beaded necklace from the locals.

Afternoon Tea

In traditional British style, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended an afternoon tea hosted by the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory.

It is common on Royal Tours to have an afternoon tea reception, and this was no exception. Many will remember the tea event in Southeast Asia, where Catherine wore an exquisite ice blue dress by Alice Temperley.
William and Catherine both enjoyed the ritual of tea while mingling with locals. It was a great opportunity to meet with the Uluru community.

Walk Around Uluru

For the final event of the day, William and Catherine visited the rock itself – Uluru, formerly known as Ayer’s Rock, is a spectacular rock formation.

William and Catherine looked to enjoy themselves on this event. The rock is known to be utterly captivating, and the excitement was evident on their faces.

At the perfect sunset moment, the Duke and Duchess posed for photos in front of the stunning landscape. These sure-to-be-iconic images will be synonymous with this highly successful tour.

A community guide took the Duke and Duchess on a guided tour along the base of the rock. Their mutual love of nature made this a special event.

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