#1
Peter Murphy
2009-02-02
This is a getaway I've always dreamed of doing, it's a real bit of Australiana, and not that far from home.
Images courtesy of Tourism Queensland (No.1-2 & 4) and Birdsville Races (No.3)
It’s a very exciting event that makes the population of Birdsville swell from 100 to 6000, but each year the Birdsville Races just keeps getting bigger and better.
Held annually in September, this famous race attracts people from all over Australia and the world. Half the fun is just getting there. Make your journey all part of the adventure and stop in Windorah en-route for a bush party complete with unique yabby racing.
Be sure to book accommodation for your stay though, or prepare to sleep under the stars. The town books out quickly and it’s yet another adventure just finding somewhere to sleep. Greyhound Australia have their own camp ‘Tent City’, almost as famous as the race itself. You’ll find pilots and passengers, that have flown to town, just roll out their swags and sleep under the wing.
You’ve already had the time of your life and the races haven’t even started yet.
Getting there:
Birdsville is located 1600km west of Brisbane. The racecourse is 3km south of Birdsville. Greyhound bus service operates a shuttle throughout the day.
Further information:
Windorah Yabby Races are held the Wednesday before the weekend Birdsville races.
Ph 07 4656 3063
Tours leaving Brisbane: Greyhound Australia Tour
Ph 1800 801 294
Ph 07 3356 3767
Birdsville Tourist Information Office, Wirrari Centre, Billabong Boulevard, Birdsville
Ph 07 4656 3300
#1
This is a getaway I've always dreamed of doing, it's a real bit of Australiana, and not that far from home.
#2
Not only was the weekend itself completely unforgettable with everyone being so friendly and the weekend itself so well organised, but the road trip out there was spectacular in itself!!!
#3
We have been there and I would definately recommend visiting here so get in your nice airconned car and visit these holidays.
#4
This is uniquely Australian and is a must see when visiting Qld, I highly recommend it.
#5
I have heard reports on the Birdsville races and apparently it is a must do just for the atmosphere.
#6
An epitome of Australian history and culture, a must do for a week of fun. Any chance of a yabbie salad though, maybe after the Wednesday races?
#7
One of the most eye opening experiences for a city born 18 year old to have. The vastness of outback Australia can only be truly realised once you are there. People's attitudes change for the better, with the beauty of the land and its isolation.
#8
This was a fantastic trip with a great bunch of mate. Had an excellent time! The trip out and back through places we would not otherwise visit was well worth it, even for the scenery alone. What makes the event special is that everyone is there for a good time, why else travel that far?
#9
There is more to the Birdsville races than just horseracing. The diversity of people who are all there to have a great time. There is plenty to see & do from just having a coldie in the iconic pub to attending the Ball & dance on each night. Some people don't even see any races, they are happy to experience the fun & frivolity around the town, airfield & campgrounds. I have been out twice by coach & the whole experience starts for me the moment i hop on board. I enjoy stopping in the outback towns enroute & meeting fellow travellers heading out for the same weekend experience. Gotta do this at least once in your life.
#10
This race meeting is certainly on my to do list as well as the Windorah yabby races it is something I am really looking forward in seeing and something that everybody should go and look at.