Sport
12 October, 2026
Bullride puts on a show
SAVANNAH in the Round was bucked into gear by the Great Northern Bullriding Series last Thursday night, which attracted another crowd of around 5000 people looking to witness all the action.
With just a two-hour time slot to fit in nearly 70 buck outs, stubborn bulls and injuries to riders and bullfighters provided plenty of adversity for show organisers.
However, the last ride of the night finished with all but a minute to spare, marking another successful GNBS event at the Mareeba festival.
An injury to bullfighter Blayne Johnson saw event organiser and former bullfighter Nathan Brown strap on his gear to aid in keeping the riders safe.
Meanwhile, a busted gate on one of the chutes caused for a couple of surprises when two bulls managed to burst out throughout the night, giving everyone in the arena a right scare.
Event director Peter Brown agreed it was a tricky night but he was pleased with the result.
“It was a good show. There were a lot of injuries but that’s just the game they play I guess. But all in all, it was a really good night,” he said.
“And to lose a bullfighter, that’s tough. We’re just lucky we have Nathan travelling with us.”
All eyes now turn to the grand finale in Atherton on 7 November.
“After tonight, I think all the standings except for the Open changed. So that’s going to make for an interesting Finals,” he said.
“Braydo (Wellby) is looking a sure chance of winning the Open, but all the others, they could win or lose on the night, just like that.”
ROUND WINNERS
Open Bullride – Braydon Wellby
Novice Bullride – Shane Dyer
Junior Bullride – Dakota Struckel
11-U14 Mini Bullride – Paydon Anstess
8-U11 Mini Bull – Scout Murray
