For years, the iconic landmarks known as Kata Tjuta and Uluru were referred to by the names Mount Olga and Ayers Rock, titles given by European explorers in honor of South Australia’s Chief Secretary, Sir Henry Ayers.

In a series of official celebrations, a group of nine Anangu traditional custodians journeyed to London. There, they engaged with High Commissioner Stephen Smith and had the opportunity to meet King Charles as part of the commemorative events.

King Charles welcomed the Anangu traditional owners at a gathering held at the Australian High Commission in London on Thursday.

Present at the celebrations in Uluru were notable figures such as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Governor-General Sam Mostyn.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Governor-General Sam Mostyn were among those who travelled to Uluru for the celebrations.

It was an “extraordinary place of beauty and spiritual significance for the Anangu people” but anyone who visited felt the significance of a very sacred place, he said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese takes a selfie with Mutitjulu school student Annalisha Buzzacott at Uluru on Saturday. Source: AAP / Sara Maiorino

The Anangu people had been generous, the prime minister said, in welcoming visitors from around Australia and the world.

Mostyn will unveil a plaque commemorating the 40th anniversary of the handback on Sunday.

Historic handover

It was the result of years of lobbying by the Central Land Council and Pitjantjatjara Council to recognise the rights of traditional owners, something the Northern Territory government had consistently resisted.

The territory government had accordingly lobbied for the title to be transferred to them, which the National Museum of Australia says would have resulted in a reduced title for the Anangu and no control in park management.

“And at the same time, recognising the special significance of Uluru to all Australians, and the appropriateness of it remaining as an Australian national park, the Trust will today lease it back to the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service as a national park.”