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Australia! Get Ready to Rodeo! Mount Isa Mines Rodeo Kicks Off in Days

Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra

Buckle up Australia:

The legendary Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra is just days away!!

 

When the gates open this Friday August 8 to the legendary 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra, something very special will begin in the Queensland Outback, almost 2,000km from Brisbane. On the famous red dirt of Buchanan Park, the bulls and broncs and barrel racers will make history as the rodeo begins a new era, one now in community hands.

 

Media to note: daily VNRs and editorial imagery is available. 

 

From record-breaking prizemoney to returning rodeo royalty from right across the country and iconic new partnerships, the 2025 Mount Isa Rodeo is galloping toward one of its most exciting years yet.

 

Organisers have confirmed that every single event—from saddle bronc and bull riding to steer wrestling and barrel racing—will offer more prize money than ever before. That means higher stakes, fiercer competition, and a serious drawcard for the country’s top riders.

 

While the rodeo veterans bring the grit, it’s the next generation that’s lighting up the arena. The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is witnessing a phenomenal surge in junior competitors—young guns who ride with the heart of champions and the hunger to prove themselves on the famous red dirt of Kalkadoon Arena at Buchanan Park. Add to that the unstoppable rise of women in rodeo, whose strength, speed and skill are rewriting the playbook.

 

The 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo takes over Buchanan Park, Mount Isa, from August 8–10, and promises three unforgettable days of grit, glory, and red dirt pride. Tickets are on sale now. The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships is proudly supported by the Queensland Government. The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

 

Will the Reigning Champions Return?

With the richest prize pool in the event’s 66-year history now up for grabs, fans are asking one big question: will the 2024 champions return to defend their titles?

 

All eyes are on All Round Cowboy Terry Evison, who dominated last year with a powerful performance in the Open Steer Wrestling (11.80 secs), and All Round Cowgirl Ellysa Kenny, who showcased all the hallmarks of a rising star. They’ll face fresh challengers, but their names are etched into the red dirt of Isa now — and the crowd will be watching closely. In the Open Bull Ride, Braydon Wellby proved why he’s one of the nation’s best, racking up a massive 168 points. The Open Saddle Bronc saw Clayton Braden claim the buckle with 164 points, while Luke Higgins took top honours in the Bareback with 161 points.

 

Sisters-in-arms Wendy and Leanne Caban lit up the Ladies Barrel Race, coming in at 34.909 and 35.414 seconds respectively — a thrilling duel for top spot. In the junior and mini ranks, rising rodeo royalty showed the future is bright. Bronzon Mara-Skellern conquered the Mini Bulls (11–14 years) with 73 points, Jayden Kenny blitzed the Junior Breakaway Roping with 3.40 secs, and Matty Ahern rode to victory in the Junior Bull Ride with 130 points.

 

And in the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, the raw talent was undeniable. Jed Farrington (Katherine) took out the Bull Ride (71 pts), Luke Metcalf (Western) won the Bareback (69 pts), and Kimba Fien (Injune) claimed the Saddle Bronc (72 pts). Local hope Jack Mullins thrilled the home crowd by taking out the Junior Steer event with 65 points.

 

HISTORY:

Back in 1959, the first Mount Isa Mines Rodeo offered just over £500 in prize money—a mighty sum for its time, but a whisper of what’s on offer now. Since then, it has grown to become the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of the most prestigious anywhere in the world. The 2025 event confirms its status as a juggernaut of the sport, drawing riders, fans, and media from far and wide.

 

Here’s what’s new in 2025:

 

Record-Breaking Prize Pool
All open events at the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo now have a $15,000 purse, with 2^nd Division Events at $2,000 and Junior events $500.00. The Indigenous Rodeo Championships now has a $2000 purse for Senior events and $500 for Junior. The competition will be fierce, the talent elite, and these famous buckles are more coveted than ever.

 

Rodeo Returns to Community Hands
Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra is owned and led by the people of Mount Isa. A passionate new community board is behind the reins, and 2025 marks the beginning of a new era grounded in local pride, legacy and connection.

 

Entry Prices Slashed

In a major win for fans, families, and the future of the event, entry prices have been slashed. Adult day entry is just $50, kids aged 8–17 are $20, and children under 7 get in free. Pensioners are just $35, and the brand-new Family Pass offers incredible value at $120 for two adults and three kids.

 

Akubra Named Presenting Partner
Two legends unite! Iconic Australian brand Akubra has officially joined as a Presenting Partner of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, bringing a proud history of Outback craftsmanship to the greatest show on dirt.

 

Sam Thaiday Joins as Indigenous Rodeo Championships Ambassador
NRL legend, proud Indigenous man and community champion Sam Thaiday has been announced as the first ever ambassador for the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, helping shine a national spotlight on this powerful celebration of culture, courage and connection.

 

The Return of ELVIS & Little Egypt
Buckle up for a red dirt reunion! Legendary stallion Elvis, with bloodlines traced to the famous Carandotta horses, and his daughter Little Egypt, an eight-time Australian Bucking Horse of the Year, will be back in Mount Isa thanks to stock contractor Eddie Gill and the Gill Bros crew. A fan favourite and bucking royalty.

 

NEW Events Hit the Program -
The Eli Donovan Memorial Local Station Buckjump will celebrate local jackaroos and jillaroos who work the land and the Local Steer Ride will give emerging riders from the region their moment in the red dirt spotlight.

 

Cowgirls in the Capital Cocktail Brunch

An unforgettable new event making its sparling red dust debut in 2025. Happening Saturday 9 August, from 10:30am to 12pm at the brand-new Cattleman’s Bar, this glorious brunch gathering brings women together to connect, celebrate, and raise a toast to the Isa Rodeo – all with a side of sparkle, sass and sisterhood. Proudly presented by Yelvertoft and Granada Stations, the event promises a blend of cocktails, country music, and community pride. Guests will enjoy two complimentary cocktails to get the party started (bar open after that – giddy-up!), individual canapé boxes packed with gourmet bites, live entertainment by Chelsea Woodard, and the best view of the rodeo action on the famous Kalkadoon arena. Tickets are just $25 per person (rodeo gate entry not included). Tickets — Mount Isa Rodeo

 

The Back Paddock – A New Vibe Zone
Introducing The Back Paddock – the ultimate chill-out zone featuring local legends, rising stars, musicians, buskers, poets, dancers, puppeteers and more. All acoustic, all family-friendly, and all-out fun. Performances across Saturday and Sunday.

 

Fan-Favourite Luke Geiger Returns
Much-loved rodeo troubadour Luke Geiger is back by popular demand, performing on both Friday and Saturday nights. His soundtrack is the heartbeat of rodeo week—and the perfect way to kick back after a day in the stands.

 

Mount Isa Mines Rodeo
Dates: August 8–10, 2025
Location: Buchanan Park, Mount Isa
Tickets & info: www.isarodeo.com.au

Key Facts:

Mount Isa Mines Rodeo
Dates: August 8–10, 2025
Location: Buchanan Park, Mount Isa
Tickets & info: www.isarodeo.com.au

Contact details:

Kath Rose on 0416 291 493 or email [email protected]