Saddle Up for the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival 2025!

Set to commence on 30 August and run through to 13 September, the Simpson Desert Racing Carnival is a quintessential celebration of outback Australia's rich racing heritage. Spanning three towns as iconic as they are remote—Betoota, Birdsville, and Bedourie—the annual carnival offers a unique insight into country racing and vibrant community spirit, backdropped by the vast and breathtaking landscapes of the Simpson Desert.​ 

Betoota Races—Reviving a Ghost Town

Springing to life annually for just this and one other event, locals lovingly refer to the Betoota festivities as the ‘Race that Resurrects a Ghost Town’. Kicking off on 30 August, Betoota racegoers can expect six thrilling races complemented by live entertainment, raffles, and the ever-popular Fashions on the Field competition. Attendees of the family-friendly event are encouraged to immerse themselves in the unique charm of the all-but-abandoned area—and for those seeking a deeper connection with the landscape, camping at Browns Creek offers a real-deal outback experience under the expansive night sky. 

Birdsville Races—The Melbourne Cup of the Outback

If you haven’t done your dash in Betoota, the carnival moves on to Birdsville for races on 5 and 6 September. Often dubbed the ‘Melbourne Cup of the Outback,’ the Birdsville Races attract approximately 6,000 attendees each year, with the two-day program featuring a 13-race lineup of horses competing for the prestigious TAB Birdsville Cup. Beyond the racetrack, attendees can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including Fashions on the Field, performances by legendary tent boxer Fred Brophy's troupe, live music at the Birdsville Hotel, a fun run, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Gala Party, food vendors, and a grand auction. The Birdsville Races are internationally renowned in the racing industry, and a highlight of the Simpson Desert carnival. 

Bedourie Races—Racing for a Cause

The carnival culminates on 13 September in Bedourie, with the event dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients. Attendees are encouraged to dress in pink to align with the cause and get ready for an energetic program of music and revelry running in tandem to the races themselves. When you’re not getting amongst the trackside action, local attractions like the restored historic Mud Hut, the Dust Storm Sculpture on Herbert Street, and the 22-person thermal spa filled with Great Artesian Basin mineral water are yours for the discovering. Camping facilities are available at the racecourse, and the Bedourie Tourist Park provides accommodations for those wishing to stay awhile. 

Better still, the current $450K Cars for Cancer prize package could get you all the way out there with unmatched capability and comfort. Featuring a Custom Toyota LC Military GXL, levelled-up with over $180K in mods, plus an Austrack Talawana X15 Hybrid Offroad Camper and $100K in Gold Bullion, this prize package is truly built to break FREE. Don’t miss your chance to WIN and support this great cause… secure your tickets today!

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