Birdsville Cup carnival gets prize money boost

The legendary Birdsville Cup meeting will reach new heights in 2025, with prize money soaring to a record $330,000—marking a 10 per cent overall increase for Australia’s most iconic outback race carnival.

Among the notable boosts is a 20 per cent hike in stakes for the Birdsville Cup itself, which rises from $50,000 to $60,000, making the race even more attractive to connections willing to travel to the remote Queensland town.

A brand-new feature race has also been added to the program: the Big Red. This $40,000 open quality sprint over 1000m is named after the striking 40-metre-high red sand dune located just 35 kilometres from Birdsville and will add significant prestige and prize money to the opening day of the carnival.

The inclusion of the Big Red nearly doubles the prize pool for the first day of racing and aims to attract more trainers to the outback event, held during the first weekend of September each year.

Racing Queensland acting chief executive Lachlan Murray expressed his excitement about attending the 2025 edition of the event.

“We are proud to continue our support of the Birdsville races, a meeting that epitomises everything that is so special about country racing in Queensland,” he said.

Beyond increased prize money, the Birdsville Race Club is also expanding its support for participants by offering improved travel rebates and additional incentives for jockeys and trainers. A $5000 bonus will be awarded to any trainer who can complete the Big Red–Birdsville Cup double.