An Australian record of well over 400 athletes competed at the Bundalong Rodeo on December 27.
An Australian record of more than 400 competitors vied for prizes across a range of events, including roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing, in front of an estimated crowd of more than 4,000 people at the successful Bundalong Rodeo on Saturday, December 27.
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Chief organiser and Rivers Ranch owner Brett Butler said the event, held at his custom-built rodeo arena, exceeded all expectations.
More than 4,000 people enjoyed the atmosphere at the successful Bundalong Rodeo on Saturday, December 27.
“It was another amazing event with record entries and fantastic ticket sales,” Mr Butler said.
Competitors travelled from around the country, delivering some outstanding performances throughout the day.
“We saw some of the highest scores ever recorded in the broncs, with top performer Angus McTavish from Tamworth scoring 86 points on his horse, Charlie Brown,” he said.
“In the bull riding, scores of 89 and 90 points were recorded. Two open riders and four novice riders successfully completed a full eight-second ride.”
Mr Butler credited the high-quality performances to the livestock supplied by Eddy Gill of Gill Brothers Rodeo Company.
“They have the best rodeo stock in Australia, and they will return for our Australia Day long weekend event,” he said.
Local cowgirl Tup Forge from Oxley, the current World Women’s Ranch Bronc Riding Champion, claimed her first-ever APRA event title.
There were some high scores ever recorded in the bronco events.
The after-party also proved popular, with Australian music icon Shannon Noll entertaining the crowd.
“He sang his heart out and definitely didn’t disappoint,” Mr Butler said.
Mr Butler said the growing popularity of the rodeo events, estimated to contribute around $5 million to the local economy each summer, continues to strengthen.
Two open riders and four novice riders successfully completed a full eight-second ride in the bull riding.
The next rodeo at the Bundalong arena will be held on Sunday, January 25, over the Australia Day long weekend.
As a major drawcard for the Bundy B Fest, popular Australian country singer-songwriter Wade Forster will headline the after-party, alongside DJ Willie Pake and Travis Sinclair.
Australia Day long weekend Bundy B Fest action will feature extreme bronc riding, bull riding, breakaway roping and more. Tickets are available via the Bundalong Tavern website or Facebook page.
