Sport
6 October, 2026
Cowgirl takes out FNQ title
MAREEBA cowgirl Nicole Quinn has capped off a strong rodeo season after taking out the All Round Cowgirl, Steer Undecorating Champion and Barrel Race Reserve Champion titles at a recent FNQ finals event.
Quinn recently attended the Australian Bushman’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association (ABCRA) FNQ Zone Finals at Bartlett Park, Townsville where she picked up her three end of season awards.
The spoils were shared, however, with her horse Peely also picking up an award for Steer Undecorating Horse of the Year. He earnt his award for having the most competitors either win or place on his back throughout the year.
Quinn said coming away with achievements like these definitely made all the effort worthwhile.
“The rodeo circuit involves a lot of travel, time away from home, long weekends, training and plenty of ups and downs, so just making the finals is rewarding in itself,” she said.
“To then come away with an end-of-year title is really special because it’s recognition of the consistency and effort you’ve put in over the entire season.
“I’m proud of what I achieved, but I’m also thankful for my family and friends who supported me throughout the year, and of course the horses that make it all possible. Not every weekend goes your way, so when all that hard work comes together at the end of the year, it gives you a real sense of achievement.”
This isn’t the first time the local cowgirl has proved her talent. In 2022, she won her first All Round Cowgirl title, Open and Rookie Steer Undecorating titles, and Peely was awarded Steer Undecorating Horse of the Year and Novice Barrel Horse of the Year. Then in 2023 she took out the All Round title again along with the Open Steer Undecorating title.
Quinn currently sits inside the Top 15 nationally, which will qualify her for the ABCRA National Finals in Tamworth in January.
“That’s something I’m really proud of because we don’t have the same number of rodeos available to us up here compared to down south, and that gives them more opportunities to earn points and money,” the 32-year-old said.
“So to be sitting in the Top 15 despite that is really rewarding and I’m looking forward to competing against the best in Australia.”
