Bendigo had a taste of the Birdsville Races in February with the inaugural Birdsville races in Bendigo Day. The Diamantina Shire sponsored two races and were represented by Brian Mooney and Barbie Walker.

Birdsville Races Showcase was taken out by La Bella Roo and the Simpson Desert Carnival Handicap was taken out by Georgia's Boy.

Many former attendees of the Birdsville Races attended the Birdsville Reunion dinner and race day.