Entertainment
3 July, 2024
COWPOKES KICK OFF RODEO TIME
It was boot-scooting fun over the weekend with the annual Cowpokes competition kicking off the 2024 Mareeba Rodeo.
The afternoon at the rodeo grounds was filled with excitement and enthusiasm as young cowboys and cowgirls showcased their general knowledge skills and special talents.
This year’s junior cowgirl was Yun Liao and junior cowboy was Geng Liao. Azaleah Hastie was named the senior cowgirl, while Levi Joe Cash Agius was named the senior cowboy.
The 2024 queen entrants also made their debut on the day.
TEN young women from all walks of life have accepted their iconic white boots and hats and are gearing up for the 2024 Mareeba Rodeo Queen Quest.
Mia Phillips, Caitlyn Parsons, Sallie Kaczmarek, Manvir Kaur, Taimarna Hastie, Emily Curcio, Olivia Nicholls, Brianna Jones, Brianne Lorna Alexander and Jordana Giacometti have all taken on the challenge to be named Rodeo Queen or Princess.
During the week leading up to the rodeo, the young entrants will spend time in the community visiting an aged care home and donating money to community organisations as well as attending the Rodeo Ball on Saturday night.
Mareeba Rodeo Association president Peter Brown said he was very impressed with the calibre of this year's entrants and hoped each girl learns something new during the quest.
“They are all very friendly girls and every year, they start off super shy and quiet but then as time goes by, they really grow within themselves and make friendships for life,” he said.
“This competition is also about them getting out there, meeting new people, and doing something that isn’t normal – putting themselves out there.
“The shy girls quickly become the outgoing and confident girls and at the end of the day, we may only end up with one queen but also have a great group of community-minded confident young ladies in the community.”
The Mareeba Rodeo Queen and Princess will be crowned after the downtown parade on Friday 12 July.
