ORGANISERS of this year’s Isa Rodeo are confident the event is the biggest in its 56-year history.
Mount Isa Mines Isa Rodeo Manager Ms Natalie Flecker said this year’s rodeo had exceeded all expectations.
“I’m hoping it’s going to be the biggest ever,” said Ms Flecker.
“Obviously it takes a week or so for final numbers but we’ve had huge crowds, an amazing atmosphere, the best competitors and stock in Australia. We've had clear blue skies and sunshine – perfect for one of the biggest outdoor rodeos in the world.”
The bucking bulls prevailed on Sunday for the finals in a stunning finale to the three-day world class rodeo, with the best cowboys in the country unable to outride the bulls on the day, with not one lasting eight seconds (riding time) in the Open Bull Ride.
It meant former Mount Isa cowboy Mark Lamberth won the event after his 84 point ride on Spin To Win on Saturday night.
The largest and richest rodeo in the southern hemisphere wrapped up in spectacular style after the Open Bull Ride, the final event of the three day rodeo.
Isa Rodeo Arena Director Steve Hilton also confirmed this year’s rodeo was the best held here in Mount Isa for years. “The bulls won the day (on Sunday),” said Mr Hilton.
“The stock (bucking bulls and broncs) were outstanding, the cowboys had to ride to earn their money,” said Mr Hilton, who hasn’t missed an Isa Rodeo in 39 years.
The rodeo is unique as a not-for-profit event run by Mount Isa’s two Rotary Clubs, which managed a 700-strong team of volunteers to help run the massive event, according to Ms Flecker.
“Once again we’ve had incredible support from the locals, our naming sponsor Mount Isa Mines, all the sponsors and of course from Rotary – it’s a huge team effort to make the event the success that it was,” she said.
Thousands of rodeo-goers watched a spectacular day of finals action with the famous Isa Rodeo buckle won by champions including Michael Maher (Open Saddlebronc), Matthew Makinson (Open Bareback), Heath Nichols (Rope & Tie), Errol Frame (Steer Wrestling), Kelly WEstlkae (Ladies Breakaway Roping), and Jo Caldwell (Ladies Barrel Racing).
For more images of the thrills, spills and great times from the Mt Isa Rodeo click on the photo below.
Held from August 7 to 9, the world-famous rodeo has raised millions of dollars over its 56 year history for local charities as diverse as the Royal Flying Doctor’s Service, the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC), North Queensland Rescue Helicopter Service, the Laura Johnson Home and BUSHkids community health organisation.
This year’s event featured entertainment by The Wolfe Brothers, Caitlyn Shadbolt, Mick Lindsay and Tania Kernaghn and Fred Brophy’s Outback Boxing Troupe.
Photos: Pictures: Ann Britton (annbrittonphotography.com.au).
