Birdsville’s red dust track green for first time in years

Seeing the current condition of the Birdsville racetrack is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But it will be back to its usual state by the time punters converge for the famous races.

THE famous dusty Birdsville racecourse is the greenest locals have seen it in decades, but it will be a different story in just two months when the iconic race is held.

Recent floodwaters and rain in the surrounding Channel Country have made the racetrack in the middle of Queensland’s Simpson Desert unrecognisable.

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Birdsville Race Club secretary Jenna Brook walks on the greenery of the Birdsville racetrack. Picture: Jess Scott

However, Birdsville Race Club Vice President Gary Brook said the thousands of punters who are set to travel to the outback for the famous event on September 6 won’t get to see the rare sight.

The more barren environment at last year’s Birdsville Races. Picture: Salty Dingo

“Come September, the horses will be galloping on dirt again,” Mr Brook said.

“The desert is an unforgiving environment, and despite us coming into comparably milder winter weather, the harsh conditions will mean the greenery is long gone by the time the Races are on.

“But the red dust kicked up by the horses is an awesome sight to behold in person — and it’s a big part of what makes the Birdsville Races experience so special and sought-after,”

Mr Brook said seeing the track in its current condition is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The Outback is green after floodwaters from Channel Country.

“The usually barren track is about as green as a desert track could ever be at the moment. It’s amazing to see.

“I grew up in Birdsville and have never seen the racecourse as green as it is now.”

Birdsville Race Club president David Brook said the track hadn’t had any grass on it for seven years.

“To have a flood over it like this, it’s been the first time since 2011,” Mr Brook said.

Steeds kick up the dust at last year’s Birdsville Races. Picture: Salty Dingo

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