Sport
29 June, 2026
Shephard, Malone on show
TWO of Mareeba’s most talented bull riders will be showcasing their skills in front of a home crowd when the PBR makes its way to Cairns this weekend.
Mareeba’s Kurt Shephard, the current Australian Gold Buckle holder, and Leith Malone, the “firecracker” PBR Origin debutant, will both be competing for a share in over $50,000 in prize money at the PBR Australia 2026 Monster Energy Cairns Invitational.
Just a matter of weeks ago Malone was instrumental in Queensland’s PBR Origin Series win. At the second round in Brisbane, he climbed aboard Turbo knowing his state needed one final statement, and the young cowboy delivered.
His pressure-packed 84.25-point ride sealed the victory, sending the crowd into celebration and ensuring the Origin shield would return north of the border.
“Cairns PBR has definitely been the event I’ve been most excited about for this year – it’s basically my hometown show for me. So that being said, a lot of friends and family will be in the stands cheering on,” Malone said.
“Going off the PBR Origin Series events, there’s no better atmosphere than competing in the entertainment centres.”
Meanwhile, Shephard took out the Grand Finals event in Townsville last year, earning his first ever PBR Australia Championship and walking away with $100,000 and a coveted gold buckle.
Also confirmed for Cairns is Queensland’s newest star, Ethan Coster. He too was pivotal in the Maroons’ success, with the Miriam Vale rookie backing up his Newcastle heroics with another standout performance in Brisbane, finishing two-from-three.
Thirty elite cowboys have entered the competition, all chasing valuable championship points in a bid to secure a spot at the $150,000 PBR Grand Finals in Townsville this November.
“With the PBR Australia season heating up, every ride, every second, and every point counts,” PBR Australia managing director Glen Young said.
“The Cairns Invitational is where legends are made. This is more than a competition, it’s a battle of grit, heart, and bull power. The crowd can expect an unforgettable night filled with edge-of-your-seat drama and world-class athleticism.”
The event will be held at the Cairns Convention Centre this Saturday from 7pm, with an official PBR afterparty at the Reef Hotel Casino following the entertainment. For more information or to purchase a ticket, visit www.pbraustralia.com.au
