THE red earth of outback Queensland is set to come to life with the thundering of hooves, as the annual Birdsville Races draws thousands of people to the bush for a day at the track.
The country's most remote horse race will be held on September 2 -3 when the small township of Birdsville - population 115 people - welcomes more than 10,000 race goers.
The two-day event, held in support the Royal Flying Doctor Service, consists of a 13-race program, and has a prize pool of $200,000.
With dirt as far as the eye can see at the race-track, the only flashes of colour on race day are the jockey silks and fashion on the field.
MEANWHILE........
Carnival Cruises has shortened its odds ahead of this year’s Melbourne Cup cruise, adding Cup-winning jockey Wayne Harris to its already strong field of onboard talent.
Harris, who recorded more than 2000 wins during his career including a Cup victory on Jeune in 1994, will join well-known race caller John Tapp onboard Carnival Spirit’s 2016 Melbourne Cup Carnival cruise to share stories from their decades in the industry.
The duo will offer entertaining and informative presentations about Australian racing and will also provide expert tips and advice ahead of the ‘race that stops a nation’.
During the six-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney to Melbourne, guests will also be able to enjoy a variety of special themed events including a fashion presentation hosted by popular television presenter Erica Davis of Sydney Weekender, in partnership with Australian fashion designer Karen Gee who has dressed the likes of television personalities Samantha Armytage, Melissa Doyle and Lisa Wilkinson.
Carnival’s Melbourne Cup cruise departs Sydney on October 30 and features three days of racing festivities in Melbourne, including the Emirates Melbourne Cup and – exclusive to cruisers on Carnival Spirit – admission to Crown Oaks Day.
On sale until August 29, fares start from $949 per person quad share and from $1699 per person twin share with a bonus $200 onboard credit per cabin.
Fares include general admission tickets into Flemington for the Emirates Melbourne Cup and Crown Oaks Day races, transfers on Cup day (November 1), plus onboard meals, entertainment and activities.
13-31-94, www.carnival.com.au
