The pub and the pie shop are already very much under starter’s orders as the iconic Birdsville Races gets under way today.
As ever, grey nomads will be well represented among the estimated 7000 punters who have descended on the tiny outback Queensland community, which has a permanent population of just 115. This year marks the 135th anniversary of the 13-race, two-day event which is headlined by tomorrow afternoon’s $35,000 Birdsville Cup.
Birdsville Race Club vice-president Gary Brook told 9 News the event was a ‘bucket-list experience’ for people in the racing industry, punters and spectators alike.
“That’s why we’re all still out here kicking up the dust some 135 years on,” he said. “Last year was challenging with the rain, but the forecast is all clear for blue skies and warm weather – and we’re looking forward to hosting a great meet.”
Of course, with so many visitors in such a tiny community camping is pretty much the only way to go … but some rules still do apply.
Police will be using an official ATV high-performance off-road vehicle that can be driven in any type of terrain to ensure that nobody is camping where they shouldn’t.
“We are patrolling the Big Red desert as people are not allowed to camp as the land is private property,” said Constable Samantha McCall. “Patrols are conducted of the desert and the Big Red Dunes on sunset when campers are most likely to settle for the evening … the Big Red Dune is patrolled every evening as tourists get bogged quite regularly.”
Campers who are looking for a stop overnight are asked to try the flats on Eyre Developmental Road where all camping is free.
This year’s Birdsville Races will again support the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
• Have you been to the Birdsville Races? What memories do you have of the experience? Comment below
