How To Get to the Birdsville Races

Published by on February 12, 2025

What Makes the Birdsville Races Special?

The Birdsville Races aren’t just an event—they’re an Aussie bucket-list experience like no other. Every year, this tiny town on the edge of the Simpson Desert transforms into a racing and entertainment hub, attracting thousands of adventure-seekers, punters, and racing enthusiasts from all corners of the country. If you’re ready to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the outback and experience two days of thrilling outback horse racing, this is your sign to start planning your Birdsville Races adventure.

How to Get to Birdsville

While our packages include your event access, campsite accommodation and incredible experiences once you arrive, you’ll need to make your own way to Birdsville. And that’s all part of the adventure! Here are your options:

By Air:

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Birdsville. Several charter flight services operate specifically for the event, departing from major cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. If you have access to a private aircraft, Birdsville’s small airport welcomes plenty of fly-in visitors each year.

By Road:

For the true outback adventurer, a road trip to Birdsville is the way to go. Depending on where you’re coming from, here’s what your journey could look like:

From Brisbane: A 1,600km road trip that takes you through Charleville, Windorah, and some of Queensland’s most iconic outback landscapes.
From Adelaide: Around 1,200km via the legendary Birdsville Track—one of Australia’s most famous 4WD routes.
From Alice Springs: A 1,000km trek through the heart of the desert, perfect for those who love off-the-grid adventures.
From Melbourne: A 1,900km journey through the heart of Australia, traveling via Broken Hill, Tibooburra, and Innamincka before reaching Birdsville.

Races Roadies

As a Birdsville Races ticket holder, you’ll receive free membership to the Birdsville Races Roadies—your ticket to an unforgettable outback adventure! Join the official pilgrimage from your state (QLD, NSW, VIC, SA) to this legendary race meet, where you’ll connect with fellow travelers, forge lifelong friendships, enjoy exclusive Roadies Rewards, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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What's Included in Our Package

Once you arrive, let us take care of the rest. Our Birdsville Races packages ensure you experience the best of the event without the stress of planning. Here’s what you can expect:

2-Day General Admission Access:

Experience all that a traditional race meet has to offer in the dramatic and dusty desert landscape of the Australian outback! Enjoy general admission to the iconic Birdsville Racetrack on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 September.

Pre-Erected Camping Accommodation:

Enjoy 3 nights’ campground accommodation right in the middle of town, including a pre-erected tent, stretcher bed, mattress, linen pack, sleeping bag, and camp chair, with access to shared toilet and shower facilities.

RFDS Birdsville Races Gala Access:

Join us for a night under the stars in support of The Royal Flying Doctor Service at the RFDS Gala held at the Birdsville Racetrack Marquee. Enjoy canapés, 8 bar tickets for beer, wine, spirits, soft drinks, and live entertainment.

Entry to Fred Brophy’s Famous Boxing Tent:

Fred Brophy is the last boxing tent showman in the world, and his Boxing Troupe has become an iconic part of the Birdsville Races. Join the crowd (or enter the ring, if you dare!) on Friday night for a truly unique entertainment experience.

OBE Pavilion Hospitality:

Enjoy a clear fronted marquee with full trackside views, a seated buffet lunch on Friday with a cocktail style lunch on Saturday, 4.5-hour beverage package including beer, wine and soft drink, and live entertainment between races on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 September.

Why You Can’t Miss This

Whether it’s the thrill of the race, the charm of Birdsville’s legendary pub, or the adventure of getting there, the Birdsville Races offer an experience you won’t find anywhere else. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s an outback tradition that has to be lived to be believed.

Keen to tick this off your bucket list? Secure your Birdsville Races package with Sportsnet Holidays today and get ready for the ultimate outback racing experience.