Outback Queensland is set to play host to an Aussie bucket-list experience like no other when the 135th Birdsville Races return this September 1-2.
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Tickets to the iconic racing carnival are now on sale through www.birdsvilleraces.com with event organisers promising another exhilarating year of punting, celebration and top-notch racing competition at the “Melbourne Cup of the Outback.”
A two-day racing pass starts at $60 and trackside hospitality options featuring a gourmet outback feast are available.
“The Birdsville Races offer up a unique slice of Australian culture and experience that you really can’t find anywhere else in Australia or the world,” said Gary Brook, Vice President, Birdsville Race Club.
“Being remote is what makes the event so special – seeing the horses kick up the red desert dust and the coloured silks of the jockeys as they thunder around the track is truly spectacular.”
More than 7000 racegoers of all ages come for a two-day, 13-race program, as well as a jam-packed schedule of outback entertainment and activities. Supported by Tourism and Events Queensland the races see many visitors arrive from the beginning of August – setting up camp early to enjoy the region’s yabby races, street parties and various other events that lead into the big Friday and Saturday race days.
Birdsville transforms into a buzzing hive of activity with film and comedy nights, live music, cocktail parties and Fred Brophy’s famous travelling boxing troupe.
“The Birdsville Races is so much more than a race meet; it’s a destination carnival and celebration of the outback that offers something different for everyone – in a completely unique environment,” Mr Brooks said.
“Where else in the world would you find thoroughbred horseracing, gourmet food, music, comedy, film, fashion, boxing, tent cities, charity fun runs and true-blue Aussie pubs and bakeries? And all more than 100 kilometres from any major metropolitan town of city centre.”
The 2017 Birdsville Races will continue to support the Royal Flying Doctor Service, hosting a 6.1km fun run to fundraise for the vital service.
In 2016, the races achieved 121 acceptances to the field. History was made when Perth-based jockey Kayla Cross rode to victory on the Heather Lehmann-trained Moore Alpha – the first time an all-female jockey-trainer duo had won the Birdsville Cup in 134 years.
Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
