Birdsville Races 2025 – Outback Spirit, Red Dirt Glory and Unforgettable Moments

Birdsville Races

A Legendary Outback Race Meet

The thrill of the chase returned to Birdsville as Day Two of the 143rd Birdsville Races thundered down the famous red dirt track. Against a backdrop of endless blue skies and the Simpson Desert horizon, thousands of punters dressed in race day glamour packed the rails to witness one of Australia’s most iconic outback events. With more than 6,500 attendees across the two-day carnival, this year’s races proved why Birdsville continues to capture national and international attention.

 

The TAB Birdsville Cup – A Historic Victory

The jewel of the meet, the $60,000 TAB Birdsville Cup, was claimed by Testator Silens, ridden by rising star Bailie Baker, who only began racing in June. The victory carried special significance, as the horse is owned by a syndicate of Queenslanders including long-time Birdsville bookmaker Gary Peoples, Diamantina Mayor Francis Murray and rugby league legend Chris ‘Choppy’ Close.

Trainer Clinton Austin celebrated a remarkable double, adding the Fred Brophy Farewell Handicap to his Cup victory. In a historic first for the race meet, three female jockeys filled the top three Cup positions, with Bailie Baker ahead of Emma Bell on The Driller and Hannah Phillips on Scorched Land.

 

A Showcase of Talent and Determination

Birdsville Races

The 143rd Birdsville Races attracted record entries, with trainers and jockeys travelling from every corner of Australia, including Tasmania, represented for the first time in race history. While the Keys brothers’ horses didn’t secure a win, their journey of more than 3,200km from Tasmania to Birdsville epitomised the spirit of the event.

The carnival also saw strong performances from female trainers, with Toni Schofield crowned leading trainer and Sarah Robbins securing three wins, marking an inspirational comeback after losing her motorhome and riding gear in a devastating fire earlier this year.

 

Farewell to a Birdsville Icon

This year marked the end of an era with Fred Brophy’s retirement from his legendary travelling boxing tent, a staple of the Birdsville Races for 43 years. The final race of the carnival, the Fred Brophy Farewell Handicap, was a fitting tribute to the outback showman.

Although Brophy is stepping away from the ring, he promised Birdsville will remain close to his heart, declaring he and his wife Sandi will return for the social side of the races. His farewell marked a poignant chapter in the long history of this unique event.

 

Colour, Fashion and Community Spirit

Beyond the track, Birdsville dazzled with Fashions on the Field, where racegoers showcased colour and creativity. Awards went to stylish entrants from across Australia and even as far as Spain, adding an international flair to the outback celebration.

Guests in the OBE Organic VIP marquee enjoyed premium hospitality, while the atmosphere throughout the grounds reflected the warm camaraderie and community pride that define the Birdsville Races.

 

A True Outback Experience

Birdsville Races

The Birdsville Races are more than a race meet—they are a cultural phenomenon. With a $330,000 prize pool, national television coverage via Sky Racing, and support from Tourism and Events Queensland, the event continues to grow as a must-see fixture on Australia’s sporting and cultural calendar.

For those seeking an unforgettable outback adventure, the Birdsville Races combine world-class racing, unique entertainment, and the iconic red dirt landscape of Queensland’s Simpson Desert.

For more information about upcoming race meets and travel to Birdsville, visit www.birdsvilleraces.com.

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