Normanton held one of their biggest events of the year last weekend, drawing competitors and spectators from across Australia to the annual Rodeo and Campdraft.
Now in its 41st year the event continues to be a success not just for the committee and the competitors, but the wider community as well.
A large portion of the proceeds from the event are invested back through charities and sporting groups each year. After re-investing in infrastructure improvements the committee was able to donate $40,000 in 2015.
At last year’s 40th Anniversary event record prize money was handed out in the Open Saddle Bronc, Open Bull Ride, Ladies Barrel Race and Open Draft, which was replicated this year.
Competitors from down South travelled the long miles for a share of the $10,000 on each of the rodeo events and the $15,000 up for grabs in the open draft.
Ben Hall made it an impressive nine open draft wins at Normanton on Foot Acre, and also claimed second on last year’s winner Classy Dove.
Kelly Woodhouse from Townsville took home the Ladies Barrel Race buckle, while Mark Walsh of Winton claimed the Open Saddle Bronc win, and also rode the Feature Horse, Mick Sypher’s Sitting Bull who backed up last year’s performance as Best Loaned Buckjumper.
David Mawhinney of Gympie, made the long trip worthwhile, taking out the Open Bull Ride, the Steer Wrestling and the All Round Champion Cowboy buckles.
Photos courtesy of Purple Fairy Imagery.
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