In this week’s Great Australian Walks, presenter Susie Youssef sets out on a journey through South Australia’s Flinders Ranges. Her trek includes a visit to Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre known as Ikara.
The episode begins with a sacred walk led by Traditional Owner Izzy Patterson, who deciphers ancient rock engravings for Susie. These engravings reveal the deep cultural history of the region, although the walk also highlights the damage caused by vandalism, which has led to restrictions for public access.
Susie continues through the rugged landscapes, tracking dry riverbeds and admiring red gum trees that stir personal memories. Along the way, she meets a former Afghan refugee, now settled in Australia, who shares his unique connection to the cameleers who traversed the Flinders Ranges in the mid-1800s.
His reflections on identity and belonging provide a thoughtful perspective on his integration into Australian life, and how he balances pride in his Muslim, Afghan, and Australian heritage.
Produced by SBS, Great Australian Walks airs weekly at 7:30pm on Thursdays.
