Organisers are promising the most action-packed Weipa Rodeo in the event’s 19-year history when chutes fly open at Andoom Oval on 23-24 August, 2024. Photo: Supplied.
Competitors and spectators will have to hold onto their hats and strap themselves in when the chutes fly open for “the most action-packed event in the Cape” on 23-24 August.
The Weipa Rodeo will celebrate its nineteenth birthday when thousands of people converge on Andoom Oval for the two-day event later this year, with organisers promising a line-up befitting the milestone.
Weipa Rodeo Association (WRA) president Reuben Slingo said he believed the speed of competitors – both two- and four-legged – in the arena was one of the biggest keys to the event’s success and longevity.
“We pride ourselves on having a very quick time between gate pulls,” he explained.
“This keeps the event non-stop action from the minute you walk in and sit down, until the last beast bucks and it’s time to kick back with a cold one and listen to the live music.”
While rodeos are commonplace across rural and remote Australia, the Weipa showcase differs in that the WRA committee purchases and provides all the safety equipment competitors need, meaning cowboys and cowgirls can show off their skills without a major financial outlay.
“Junior and senior riders borrow the committee’s safety equipment and to the best of our knowledge, we are the only rodeo association that offers this to their riders,” Mr Slingo said.
“This community-focused succession planning initiative helps ensure the future of the event through nurturing current and up-and-coming rodeo athletes.
“With rider nominations from all over the Cape and beyond, the Weipa Rodeo is focused on inclusion for all and each year, we have a strong focus on not just putting on one of the largest and most exciting events in the Cape, but giving back to the community and supporting worthy causes.”
When asked what his favourite event was, Mr Slingo flagged the Cape of Origin, while wife and WRA secretary Chrissy Slingo said the novelty events for kids were a personal highlight.
In the Cape of Origin, each region will be mentored by a captain and compete in teams as they vie for a share of the prize pool and the coveted Cape Of Origin buckle in open bull ride, novice bull ride, ladies bullock rider, saddle bronc rider, mini bull rider and barrel racer events.
To continue the success of one of the largest community events in Weipa, Ms Slingo said the WRA committee had put the call out for sponsors and volunteers as planning ramped up.
“The Weipa Rodeo Association is a non-profit group, run entirely by volunteers and largely funded by generous sponsorship from local businesses,” she said.
“Without these sponsors and volunteers, the Weipa Rodeo would not be the success it is.
“Each year, we aim to put on a bigger and better event, and we are very grateful for the continued support of previous sponsors, and welcome any new sponsors to reach out and become a part of the Weipa Rodeo.”
For more information about getting involved with the 2024 Weipa Rodeo as a sponsor, email [email protected].
The Weipa Rodeo Association is calling for sponsors and volunteers to help make this year’s event the best ever. Photo: Supplied.
