Alice Springs

Aboriginal girl
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Spent three days in "The Alice," the unofficial capital of the outback that sits close to the geogrpahic center of the nation.  Stayed with my second cousin, and enjoyed the following:

Attending a church service and celebration at an aboriginal township in Ti Tree.  It was Easter Sunday, and they dedicated a translation of the book of Mark into Anmatyerr, an aboriginal language.  My cousin, along with others, completed, published and recorded the translation.  It was eye-opening to see the grim squalor of the community, characterized by wild dogs, rubbish, simple structures and bedraggled souls.

The Alice

Special event
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Visiting the base of the Royal Flyng Doctor Service.  This institution provides medical services to folks in the outback that would otherwise have no access to care and help.  At the base there is a museum with a video, a tour and interesting exhibits.

Visiting the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve.  Here there are a handful of buildings, including the old stationmaster's residence, telegraph office and stables.  The surrounding area was pleasant, with surprisingly green lawns, and shin-deep "springs" set against red, bouldery hills.

The township
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Playing nine holes of golf at The Alice Springs Golf Club.  In between shots, I paused often to admire the contrasting colors of the fairway greens, sky blues and desert yellows and reds.