Birdsville Races

We went this year had a good time WE camped out along the way into town if you don,t need power this is the best as the park was crowded . Water available in the town The races were fun and we met some nice travellers there

I went last year and passed through during the beginning of race week this year as well.

Whether it's good or bad depends on what you're into - It was probably a bit tamer than I had expected - I gather that there was a fatality a year or two back and now it is policed fairly heavily. Main crowd when I was there this year seemed to be grey nomads, but that might have been because it was early in the week.

The race itself is well set up with a large galvanised iron roof providing plenty of shade with good ventilation.

As far as facilities go, it is well set up with a camping ground in the town (bookings req'd) and food supplies, bakery, cafe etc. There is unlimited camping available along the river, which is a short walk to town.

I would go again, but with hindsight would not drive any substantial distance just for the races - the trip itself would have to be worthwhile.

Hi There We went in 2002 and had a ball. We are non-drinkers but still had a great time. We flew in, and slept in a swag under the wing of the plane it was great. Got there 2 days before the races, stayed 2 nights and flew out and home. Camping by the creek just out of town would be great but Ruth's hospitality at the caravan park cant be passed by, mind you she will be busy. The races are fun but the boxing tent is THE BEST $20 I ever spent, and wathcing two guys emerge from their swags under the Pub verandah Sunday morn a treat. As awas the guy "swimming" down the gutter full of empties. I am going back driving this time, and reckon it'll be great then too.

MM

We went this year and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, we have been around many parts of Australia and Birdsville really surprised us, it was just not what we had pictured in our minds. The lush green sports oval in the centre of town, the large bakery, museum and information centre were top shelf. The road from the East is 300km of rough , stony track, but if driving to the conditions can be done safely and with no damage, even towing an on-road caravan. If you intend towing a caravan you need to install a comprehensive stone guard, as the stones thrown up by the towing vehicle can make a mess of the caravan. I made my own with shadecloth and where it fitted (above the A-frame we didn't get a dent, but there was a little damage below the shadecloth. I have a plan for an additional protecvtor for next time. You also need to look under the van and see if anything is susceptible to stone damage, eg. hoses from water tank etc.

There are heaps of camping areas along the river, but the dust or mud and PRICKLES are a real problem. We intended staying along the river, but our friends opted to stay at the caravan park with Ruth, as we also eventually did and do not regret it. The only problem at the caravan park is that there are only a small number of powered sites and they go a week before the main event. If you need a generator, it can only be used between 9am and 2pm. The amenities and the closeness to the town and attractions was well worth it. The race day was also a good experience, partly because we actually won $5. We could see most raced through the dust.

Although we did not travel the Birdsville track to the South, I believe it is much better than the road to the East through Windorah. This event is a must do for an Aussie traveller.

Brian DJ

We went this year and really enjoyed it all. We travelled up the track from south early in the week before the races. Plan to stop at Mungerannie and enjoy the pub and camping. At Birdsville we camped out of town on the river and it was fantastic. Expect heat, wind, dust etc but great cool nights. The town has sort of carnival atmoshphere and is worth a trip each night even just to get more water. I suggest collecting firewood before arriving as it is scarce and even though it is sold in the town it is expensive. Races are fairly tame compared to stories I had heard. Still one of the best experiences we have had overall and the people we met camping will remain friends. Police breath tested me every day it seemed so expect to become on first name terms with them. On the upside of the police presence they regularly patrolled the camp areas and this was a comfort. We will return at some point.

there are public toilets and showers in the town One set of loos where you get water Servo has a shower as well Bakery has a loo and a great quandong pie
You can always get the campers friend a porta loo very handy.
If you put down shadecloth the prickles sweep off easily get a piece of cleared dust ground and hardly any at all