URGENT UPDATE: The Keys brothers—John, Ken, and Robert—have just made history by representing Tasmania at the iconic Birdsville Races for the first time in its 143-year history. Traveling over 3,000 km from Melbourne and Tasmania, the horse trainers showcased their bond and passion for racing at this beloved outback event in Queensland.
On Saturday afternoon, Robert Keys’ horse, Wholesome, finished eighth in race five, with John’s Native Clan and Ken’s Anointed Lad placing tenth and twelfth, respectively. The highlight of the carnival, the $60,000 Birdsville Cup, was won by Testator Silens, in which Birdsville local and Diamantina Shire Mayor Francis Murray holds a stake. Remarkably, this was the first Cup where female jockeys claimed the top three positions, led by Bailie Baker.
Robert Keys humorously reflected on the sibling rivalry, stating, “Third last would be good enough.” The brothers’ love for horses began in their childhood on a King Island farm, where they rode ponies to help with farm work. John fondly recalled riding his pony, Pixie, into town to visit his teenage sweetheart, Heather. Their shared memories and childhood experiences bond them deeply, driving their connection to the sport.
Thousands of attendees flocked to Birdsville for this annual racing event, making it a bucket-list destination for friends and families. The Birdsville Races have become a cultural phenomenon, drawing crowds eager to witness the excitement and camaraderie it fosters.
Crowds gathered outside the Birdsville Hotel each night during the race weekend, captivated by the thrilling action in the Fred Brophy boxing tent. This year marks the final appearance of Brophy’s boxing troupe at Birdsville after 43 years of entertaining racegoers. At 73 years old, Brophy expressed mixed emotions about retiring: “If you haven’t been to the Birdsville Races, you haven’t been anywhere in Australia. You don’t know what you’re missing out on.”
As the dust settles on this year’s races, the Keys brothers and countless others will reflect on the enduring friendships and unforgettable memories created in Birdsville. With the excitement and nostalgia still fresh, all eyes will be on next year’s event, promising another thrilling chapter in the Birdsville Races saga.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to cover the aftermath and community impact of this year’s Birdsville Races.
