Quirky Aussie Events

There is no better way to meet the locals than to join in at one of the many colorful festivals, lively sporting events or indulgent food and wine celebrations, which occur across Australia throughout the year. Here are a some of Australia’s more unique events.

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Imparja Camel Cup

Alice Springs. NT - The quirky, annual Camel Cup attracts visitors to Alice Springs from all over the world. While camels may have a reputation as dedicated 'ships of the desert', these magnificent beasts are certainly not short on personality. Racing them can prove a nightmare for riders and handlers but fantastic viewing for spectators. Entertainment is assured, with nine races scheduled around the dusty outback track throughout the day.

Henley on Todd

Alice Springs. NT
This annual charity event has developed a real cult following and attracts visitors and competitors from all over Australia and overseas. Features waterless boat races and warship battles all held in the famous dry bed of the Todd River, where human horse power propels bottomless boats amid much good humour and good grace.

Birdsville Races

Birdsville QLD
The Birdsville Races is not just a horse race, but the Outback social event of the year. A $AUD100,000 prize pool, whip cracking, boxing tent, Ringers Dance and Stockyard Ball, are all part of the race weekend. The Birdsville Races brings more than 6000 visitors to this tiny Outback town with a usual population of just 120. Located between the sands of the Simpson Desert and the plains of Sturt’s Stony Desert, Birdsville is the starting point of the famous Birdsville track, which stretches all the way to Marree in South Australia

World Lizard Racing Championships

Eulo, QLD
Eulo is a fascinating outback township where, each year, they hold the world lizard racing championships. Held at a specially-built racetrack. The event starts with a lizard auction and features a five-race program.

Win your wife's weight in beer

Singleton’s, NSW
Australian men, throw your mothers, daughters, sisters, aunties, wives and even mothers-in-law over your shoulders and run as fast as your little legs will carry you. And if you win there, the prize is your wife’s weight in beer! This bizarre event is in its third year and is now a regular part of Singleton’s annual Integra Countryfest, featuring alongside a Ute muster, rodeo, dog high jumps (which are surprisingly watchable) and loads more fun of a distinctly Aussie nature.