We bump and swerve our way along the short cut from Uluru to Amata. It's a two hour drive south and we're racing the setting sun.
Gav says we don't want to get stuck out here in the dark.
The road is rough but the scenery is breathtaking.
We pass Uluru, an impressive and spiritual place no matter your denomination.
The sheer size of Uluru makes you feel insignificant and the late light reveals her true beauty.
Soon we’re crossing an endless flat plain covered in bushy grass and a scattering of thin trees. The rusted car carcasses resting on the side of the road are constant reminders of the respect you must pay this path of red rock and sand.
The red dust billows behind the back of the car. Gav is the driver and DJ. April Sun in Cuba is blaring. It's such a good driving tune.
There's plenty of time to talk and we cover a lot.
I learn about Gav's indigenous heritage and what it means to him. He recounts stories told to him by his grandfather and great grandfather. We talk reconciliation, the treatment of indigenous people past and present, and the frustration around our nation's reluctance to acknowledge and celebrate the most ancient culture.
We come across an elder from Amata who's out hunting with his wife. He instantly recognises Gavin and is quick to show us what he's caught. He holds up a bush turkey. He tells us it's a little skinny but still good eating.
As the sun sets behind the mountain ranges we pull into Amata. We head straight to the footy oval and watch the Amata Bombers train. No grass, witches hats or drills here. It's pure footy. The Coach bounces the ball in the centre square and away they go. Kick a goal. Repeat.
They're quick, athletic and love snapping a goal. The only time training stops is to retrieve the footy and to get the odd dog off the field.
The players come and chat to Gav. Gav appears to know them all by name and asks about their chances this season. They're optimistic. They made finals last year and played well over the pre-season. They believe they can go even further this season and make the Grand Final.
Like most remote towns, the Amata Bomber football club is its heart and soul of the community. The team is about to upgrade its oval and facilities. It will be huge for the town and the locals are excited. I get asked to bring the Essendon team up for the official opening next year. They understand I won't be able to bring the team, and I think I have the perfect person to surprise them. I’m sure Kevin Sheedy will make space in his diary.
