What’s Happening?
The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships will return on Sunday, 10 August 2025, as part of the final day of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo — Australia’s largest rodeo event.
Now entering its fourth year, the Indigenous Championships have grown into a nationally celebrated showcase of First Nations talent, attracting riders, artists, and fans from across the country. Nominations for the 2025 event are now open, with an additional drawcard announced: a free Indigenous Rodeo Clinic to be held on Thursday, 7 August 2025, open to Indigenous competitors from juniors to adults.
The free clinic is designed to develop skills, confidence, and connections for emerging rodeo athletes and is led by three of the sport’s most respected names.
Why It Matters
This event is more than a competition — it’s a platform for empowerment and cultural recognition. The Championships provide First Nations cowboys and cowgirls the opportunity to compete at the highest level while being mentored by champions who share their cultural heritage and understand their unique journey.
Mark ‘Tommo’ Thompson, Chair of the Mount Isa Rodeo Community Board, said the return of the event demonstrates the depth of talent in Indigenous rodeo across the country: “To see the level of skill, commitment and interest from our Indigenous riders — particularly the young guns coming up through the ranks — shows this sport is in great hands.”
He added, “We’re proud to announce and host a free Indigenous Rodeo Clinic on Thursday August 7.”
Local Impact
Townsville, as North Queensland’s largest regional centre, has long supported rodeo, horsemanship, and regional sport. The free Indigenous Rodeo Clinic offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for local Indigenous youth and adults to train under elite rodeo professionals, in preparation for competition or simply to gain confidence in the sport.
It also presents an inclusive pathway for Townsville-based riders to represent their region and culture on a national stage, supported by mentors who understand the challenges and aspirations unique to Indigenous communities.
The event also creates positive ripple effects — from youth development and cultural pride to regional tourism and economic activity.
By the Numbers
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The 2023 Indigenous Rodeo Championships generated $1.79 million in direct and incremental spend for the Mount Isa economy.
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The broader event brought $1.3 million into the Queensland economy, according to Tourism and Events Queensland.
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The event won GOLD at the Queensland Tourism Awards (Festivals & Events category) and received the Queensland Reconciliation Award for Partnerships alongside Mona Aboriginal Corporation.
Zoom In:
The 2023 Indigenous Rodeo Championships were a thrilling display of raw talent, determination and sportsmanship:
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Jed Farrington (Katherine) took out the Bull Ride with 71 points.
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Luke Metcalf (Western) dominated the Bareback event with 69 points.
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Kimba Fien (Injune) claimed victory in the Saddle Bronc with 72 points.
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Jack Mullins, a local crowd favourite, won the Junior Steer event with 65 points.
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In Steer Wrestling, Mount Isa’s own Layne Creer (27) edged out Cordel Gosbee (19) to claim the buckle.
Zoom Out:
The free clinic on 7 August will be led by three standout figures in the rodeo world — all proud Indigenous leaders:
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Donovan Rutherford: A Kalkadoon cowboy, national rodeo champion, and PBR (Professional Bull Riders) star, Donovan has been competing since childhood.
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Jake Curr: Donovan’s lifelong mate, PBR Rookie Champion, and respected rider who began his career at six years old on poddy calves.
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Darryl ‘Chongy’ Chong: A proud Waanyi man and six-time Australian Champion Protection Athlete, Chongy is known not only for his arena heroics but also for his deep commitment to mentoring the next generation.
These mentors will guide participants through everything from technical skills and safety to confidence-building and community connection. The clinic is designed to be accessible, practical, and culturally affirming.
📍 Location: Mount Isa Campdraft Grounds
📅 Date: Thursday, 7 August 2025
🕘 Time: 9:00am to 3:00pm
👥 Eligibility: Open to all Indigenous competitors – juniors and up
📧 To register: nominations@mtisarodeo.com.au
What to Look For Next?
With tickets on sale now for the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo (8–10 August 2025 at Buchanan Park), spectators and fans can expect another record-breaking celebration of sport and culture.
For Townsville’s Indigenous riders and rodeo families, this is the time to step forward, nominate, and connect with legends who have walked the same path. The clinic and Championships are a rare opportunity to be part of something that’s bigger than the sport — it’s about community, legacy, and pride.
📲 Stay up to date via the official Mount Isa Rodeo Facebook page.
