mount isa mines rodeo
legendary since 1959
history
HALL OF FAME
The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo isn’t just Australia’s biggest rodeo, it’s a legendary event with a history as bold as the outback itself.
1959:
The first-ever Mount Isa Mines Rodeo was held at Kalkadoon Park. A group of visionary locals wanted to put Mount Isa on the map with an event celebrating the region’s rugged spirit, cowboy culture, and mining community. The inaugural rodeo drew huge crowds and instantly established itself as a must-see event.
1960s–1970s:
During this period, the rodeo expanded to include more events like bareback riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. Prize money was introduced, attracting competitors from across Queensland and helping to professionalize the sport.
1980s:
The rodeo began drawing competitors from interstate and international riders. Night rodeos under lights became a crowd favorite, adding to the festival atmosphere. Legendary riders such as Greg Ward, Clinton Ward, and John “Jock” Turner left their mark on the arena.
1990s:
The rodeo developed into a full festival experience, including parades, street entertainment and family-friendly activities. Spectator numbers grew significantly, solidifying the rodeo as a major cultural event in Mount Isa.
2000s:
The rodeo became the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and richest, with prize money reaching new heights and international competitors joining. Iconic figures like Bob Holder, Errol Hodge, and Mick Hays became household names during this era.
2022:
A landmark year in the rodeo’s history, the first Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships were held, highlighting First Nations riders and their exceptional horsemanship. This addition recognised the deep cultural roots of Indigenous participation in rodeo and added a celebrated new dimension to the festival.
2025:
In 2025, a new community-driven rodeo board took over the management of the event, bringing fresh vision and energy. Under this leadership, the rodeo celebrated its heritage, showcased elite competitors and further elevated Mount Isa Mines Rodeo on the national stage.
Today, more than 60 years later, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo continues to break records and create memories, drawing crowds of over 25,000 people each year. It stands as a proud symbol of outback culture, community spirit, and the place where legends are made.
For over six decades, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo has produced legends, competitors whose skill, courage and outback spirit have defined the event. From the early pioneers to today’s champions, these riders and personalities have left their mark on Australia’s most iconic rodeo.
Historic Legends
Jack Ward: One of the rodeo’s earliest stars in the 1960s, Jack was known for his fearless bull riding and dedication to growing the sport in Mount Isa.
Colin Hodgson: A standout bronc rider in the 1970s and 1980s, Colin helped raise the rodeo’s profile across Queensland and beyond.
Greg Ward: A bull riding champion of the 1980s, Greg’s high-adrenaline performances became the stuff of rodeo legend.
Clinton Ward: Celebrated for his consistency and skill in multiple events, including saddle bronc and bareback riding, Clinton left a lasting legacy in the arena.
Errol Hodge: Dominating steer wrestling in the 1990s, Errol’s sportsmanship and technical skill made him a fan favourite.
Bob Holder: Often referred to as one of Australia’s greatest rodeo riders, Bob Holder’s legendary career spans decades, inspiring countless rodeo enthusiasts and setting the benchmark for excellence in the sport.
Mick Hays: A versatile competitor in the 1970s and 1980s, excelling in both bull riding and bronc events, known for his daring style and competitive spirit.
Norman “Norm” Smith: A pioneer of rodeo roping events, Norm was instrumental in formalising competitions and mentoring young riders in the early decades.
Tommy McKenzie: Famous for his bareback riding in the 1960s and 1970s, Tommy became an early crowd favourite for his daring techniques.
Les “Dusty” Harper: Known for his contributions to both the rodeo and community, Dusty was a standout in bronc and bull riding events and helped grow the event’s festival atmosphere.
John “Jock” Turner: A 1980s bull riding champion whose fearless style and championship wins made him a household name in Australian rodeo circles.
Indigenous Rodeo Champions
Since the launch of the Indigenous Rodeo Championships, First Nations riders have become a cornerstone of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo:
Trevor “Trev” Munroe: Renowned for his incredible horsemanship and multiple championship wins.
Luke Wallis: Celebrated for his dynamic performances and role in inspiring the next generation of Indigenous rodeo riders.