Community & Business
18 May, 2023
Chillagoe Rodeo poised to be the biggest in history
ORGANISERS have elevated the popular Chillagoe Rodeo to the next level, with the 2023 event set to be one of the biggest in history with a record number of competitive events and a mouth-watering amount of money up for grabs.
The rodeo will take place this Friday and Saturday and attract competitors and their families from across the region including many station managers and owners as they get together to socialise.
There will over 40 events at this year’s rodeo, from open bull rides to saddle bronc, steer wrestling, barrel racing and more, with close to $25,000 in prize money up for grabs thanks to sponsors.
Kids will also be able to enjoy a best dressed and colouring in competition at this year’s rodeo.
After many years, the Chillagoe Rodeo has be-come affiliated with the region’s leading bull riding authority – the ABCRA North Queensland Zone – and riders competing in the bull rides will be able to earn points towards the national title.
Chillagoe Rodeo Association secretary Kate Knowles said the previous committee’s efforts was a major reason why this year’s rodeo would be huge.
“The previous committee did an amazing job of getting the rodeo back on its feet so we actually have money to work with now and we can host these bigger events,” she said.
“We couldn’t really get out of the last committee exactly how many they had through the gate but I know they ran out of alcohol, so that is a good indication. It will be good to have the rodeo back to how it used to be, what we all remember it being.
“The Chillagoe Rodeo has always been the town’s social highlight of the year.”
There will be a live band playing both Friday and Saturday night, the bar opens at 5pm until mid-night on Friday and 10am to 12pm on Saturday. Tickets for this year’s rodeo are available at the gate with free camping available.
