The world's oldest competing cowboy returns to Isa Rodeo at 95 years old, to ride again

Mount Isa Mines Rodeo

BOB RIDES AGAIN: the world’s oldest competing cowboy returns to Isa Rodeo at 95 not out!

At 95 years old, Bob Holder from Cootamundra, NSW, isn’t slowing down — in fact, he’s saddling up once again for the legendary 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra.

He’s the world’s oldest professional competing cowboy and he’s once again making the epic 4,400-kilometre round trip (yes, you read that right) to Isa with his equally legendary daughter, champion barrel racer Kerrie Holder, from their home at Cootamundra in Southern NSW. Images here

A true icon of the sport, Bob has competed in rodeos for an astonishing 79 years and still competes in the Rope and Tie Team as the Header at Isa Rodeo.

Last year, Bob was honoured with a one-of-a-kind, custom-crafted Over 90s Header Buckle — the only one of its kind ever created and awarded anywhere in the world.

If Bob were an Olympian, he’d be Ariarne Titmus, Michael Phelps, and Simone Biles all rolled into one — humble, unbeatable, and inspiring generations with every ride.

Bob has been to thousands of rodeos across the country, but says there’s nothing quite like Isa. “Isa Rodeo is the one to ride at, to be at,” he said.

"Never give up, keep practicing, and keep on riding," Bob says to young riders who look up to him. And they all do. When Bob rides up to the arena, riders of all ages and stages part the way for him. For he really is rodeo royalty.

With a permanent place in the Australian Rodeo Hall of Fame, Bob remains one of the sport’s most enduring figures — not just for his competitive fire, but for the camaraderie and character he brings to every arena.

ABOUT THIS LEGENDARY RODEO: When the gates open on 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 and a thousand miles from ordinary. 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.

From record-breaking prizemoney to returning rodeo royalty from right across the country and iconic new partnerships, the 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra 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.

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.

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

Kath Rose

0416 291 493

[email protected]