This morning we are good in time and ask Flight Watch for an earlier start time than shown in our flight plan. At 7:30 local time the Tower has not opened yet (which is no problem for an IFR takeoff in Australia). So we get in touch with Flight Watch on the ground. First we are happy about the fact that we get clearance for the more favorable runway 06L with the associated standard instrument departure procedure (SID). We are put on standby because Flight Watch had to sort out the re-routing for us. Instead of the SID to the east we get 6 Waypoints which should bring us on course. Unfortunately, this re-routing is without any logic, because now we fly first in easterly direction, then to the Indian ocean in westerly direction and then finally when reaching 5000ft to the east. … this could have been solved easier and with less delay time.

Approaching Ayers Rock airport we have already left the frequency of Mebourne Centre and contacted Ayers Rock Tower. We get the permission to follow the Scenic Route around Ayers Rock and the Olgas before we land (this route is published in the IFR approach maps as special services). Flight Watch is not informed about our plan and awaits nervously our time SAR Cancellation Request. We contact them once again on their frequency and are able to explain the delay.

We are just in time to check with the Hertz rent-a-car counter (the last still open counter at 15:30 o'clock!) to hire a car. We are a bit surprised about the notification that we may drive only from sunrise to sunset: night drives forbidden because of mad camels. In Australia there is the worldwide biggest population of wild camels and it is a mating season. Hence, no assurance covers damages with camels during darkness. After we see such a hopping camel on the street, we understand what the insurance is talking about.

Whether during sunrise or sunset or during the 11 km walk around the Ayers Rock, over and over again the monolith with his constantly changing colors and forms fascinates. The second day with mountain hiking in the Olgas becomes really strenuous. The Australian "Hi" (a waving movement of the hand along the head) we adopt real fast. Flies are everywhere and constantly are to be scared away.