Witness the Spectacle

About the Famous Races

Learn where it all began, who is behind it all, and what happens on the big day.

Other Activities

The Birdsville Races are about so much more than just the centrepiece race day event. From live entertainment to fun runs to fashion and beyond, there’s plenty for everyone.

The Annual RFDS Birdsville Races Fun Run

Get a team together, support a great cause and have fun!

2023 Race Program

Click each section below to reveal race details for each day of the carnival.

Friday 1 September 2023

Full details of each race and prize money for Friday’s race program are available on the Racing Queensland website. 

Nominations Close 11am, Wednesday 23 August 2023
Weights Declared 3pm, Monday 28 August 2023
Acceptances Due 10am, Tuesday 29 August 2023
Jockey Declarations 10am, Tuesday 29 August 2023
Final Scratchings 7.30am, Friday 1 September 2023
Saturday 2 September 2023

Full details of each race and prize money for Saturday’s race program are available on the Racing Queensland website.

Nominations Close 11am, Wednesday 23 August 2023
Weights Declared 3pm, Monday 28 August 2023
Acceptances Due 10am, Tuesday 29 August 2023 
Jockey Declarations 10am, Tuesday 29 August 2023
Final Scratchings 7.30am, Saturday 2 September 2023
Bonuses

 

SIMPSON DESERT RACING CARNIVAL BONUSES (payable by Clubs):

  • $4,000 for leading horse(s) will be distributed as follows: 1st $3,000, 2nd $1,000 to the owner/s of the horses which have accumulated the most points in the 2023 circuit (Betoota, Birdsville & Bedourie). To be eligible for the Bonus, horses need to start at least once in each location. Points will be distributed: 1st 6 points, 2nd 4 points, 3rd 2 points, all other starters 1 point. In the event of one or more horses accumulating the same number of points, the Bonus will be divided equally.
  • $1,500 to leading Trainer and Jockey (paid by Club) to the Trainer/Jockey that has the most winners at the 2023 circuit (Betoota, Birdsville & Bedourie). To be eligible for the Bonus, Trainers/Jockeys must have participated at least once in each location. If there is a tie, it will be then decided on a countback (most seconds, then most thirds).

BIRDSVILLE RACES BONUSES & REBATES (payable by Club):

  • $150 Trainers Travel Rebate per horse per start.
  • $300 per Jockey participating at Birdsville.
  • $1,000 Trainers Double Bonus (maximum 1 per Trainer) plus a further $1,000 if a Trainer wins both day feature races (Open Sprint & TAB Birdsville Cup).

$1,000 to the winning Trainer based on most wins over the two day Carnival; $500 to the winning Jockey based on most wins over the two day Carnival. If there is a tie, it will then be decided on a countback (most seconds, then most thirds).

The Betoota and Bedourie Race Programs are available on the Queensland Racing website: 

 

OBE Pavilion

The Birdsville Race Club is pleased to offer visitors a luxury outback dining experience available on both race days.

Limited in number these OBE Pavilion hospitality packages will provide:

  • Clear fronted marquee with full views of the track
  • Gourmet dining featuring OBE Organic produce
  • Exclusive trackside access
  • 4.5 hour beer and wine package
  • Complimentary race book
  • Sky Channel coverage
  • Live entertainment between races

Our on course chef will tantalise the taste buds of guests in what is without question the finest dining in Birdsville during race week and an opportunity not to be missed.

Event Sponsors

Strategic Partner
Gold Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Preferred Travel Advisor