'It's in our blood': the ties that bind in Birdsville

The Birdsville Races, held on the edge of the Simpson desert, began in 1882 as a meet for stockmen. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)

Race horses come from every corner of Australia, a cavalcade of caravans converge in the desert and a tiny outback town suddenly bursts at the seams.

But none of those major logistical challenges appear to faze Birdsville Race Club vice president Gary Brook.