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The iconic Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, renowned as the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere, is set to make history as it transforms into a grand nine-day festival. From Saturday, August 5th, to Sunday, August 13th, the Australian Outback will come alive with exhilarating rodeo action, top-tier music performances, and celebrations marking 100 Years of Mount Isa.
For over six decades, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo has been a highlight for the region, drawing cowboys and cowgirls from across the country to vie for the coveted buckles. This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring reigning rodeo champions defending their titles, fresh talent rising to claim victory, and junior riders showcasing their skills in world-class competitions.
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CEO of Isa Rodeo Limited, Natalie Flecker, expressed her excitement, “Famed as one of the most electrifying events in the country, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is on the bucket list of many, has won numerous awards, and generated millions of dollars in economic benefit to Mount Isa, Outback Queensland, and Queensland. Now, there’s even more reasons to come and more reasons to stay!”
A Star-Studded Lineup
One of the main attractions of the festival is the incredible music lineup, boasting renowned artists who will grace the stage with their performances. On Thursday evening, Jessica Mauboy will captivate the audience during the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships.
The festivities will continue on Saturday night with Aussie rock royalty, The Angels, supported by rodeo favorite Luke Geiger. Friday night will feature The Screaming Jets and O’SHEA, supported by Furnace and the Fundamentals. And to top it all off, the one and only Darryl Braithwaite will star in the Isa Street Festival on Wednesday, August 8th.
Embracing Indigenous Art and Culture
Last year’s groundbreaking Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships will make a powerful return, celebrating indigenous riders and their achievements. To honor this momentous occasion, organizers commissioned a stunning artwork titled “Kalkatungu Country” from local Kalkatungu artists Cungelella Art. The artwork will be featured in posters, merchandise, on shirts, and showcased in a fashion event during the Opening Ceremony.
Glenda McCulloch, founder of Cungelella Art, described the significance of the artwork, “The country is very tough and rugged, the heat has twisted and folded back on itself, and the ochres have been pushed up from the depths with gold and silver and many other minerals which gives us the most unique mineral belt in the world.”
An Array of Festivities
The Mount Isa Rodeo Festival will offer a diverse range of activities and events for attendees to enjoy throughout the nine days. Highlights include the glamorous Bell and Moir Toyota Rodeo Arena Ball on August 5th, the Isa Rodeo Hall of Fame BBQ Dinner on August 8th, and the Isa Street Festival featuring Darryl Braithwaite on August 9th.
How Much Is the Price Money for the Mount Isa Rodeo?
There is $300,000 on offer for the Mount Isa Rodeo. The 2022 event saw 956 entrants turn up to try and take the prize money home.
The Specifics:
What: Mount Isa Rodeo
When: Saturday 5 August to Sunday 13 August
For more information and to book tickets, visit Isarodeo.com.au.
