The Desert Races...with camels?
The Boulia Cup is an annual event that began in 1986 and sees the tiny of town of Boulia, with a population of 300 swell to around 3000.
Boulia is located 300 kilometers south of Mount Isa and 1450km northwest of Brisbane. The town is known for its association with the Min Min Light, a strange spectral light that can appear and disappear randomly.
The Min Min Encounter in Boulia is a unique theatrical experience incorporating animatronics and fibre optics in its displays. The encounter is a tribute to the long honoured art of the bush yarn, all based around the famed Min Min Light phenomenon.
And most recently the success of the Boulia Camel Races has aided in putting Boulia "on the map" and camel racing in the forefront of peoples minds.
A growing sport in Australia, camel racing is a well established industry in the Arab States, seeing prize purses in the millions of dollars. In Australia, the Boulia Cup 2007 carries a prize of $25,000, which makes it one of the richest in Australia. It takes place on the 3rd weekend in July each year.
This event is three nights and two days of entertainment, family fun and, of course, camel racing. Events include the barrel race on horseback, bull riding, wild camel tagging, twilight camel races, a Ute muster, live music, fireworks and more.
Saturday sees the heats of camel races that lead up to the main event of The Camel Cup run over 1500 meters.
Further Information:
Boulia, QLD
Mac Air fly to Boulia
one way
From $320 ex Brisbane
1300-622-247
Prices correct at 10/3/08. Prices include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Boulia Camel Races
18,19,20 July 2008
Weekend Pass
Adult $30
Day Pass
Adult $10
Kids under 15 Free
www.boulia.qld.gov.au
Prices correct at 3/3/08. Prices include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Boulia Rodeo Grounds
Selwyn Road, Boulia
Queensland, 4829, Australia
(07) 4746-3386
The Min Min Encounter
(07) 4746-3386
www.boulia.qld.gov.au
Open Times:
0830 to 1700 Monday to Friday
0900 until 1400 on Weekends and Public Holidays
Hours are extended in the peak season (April to September)
Entry Costs:
Adults: $12
Kids over 4, Students and Concession $7.70
Family $30
