Nominations for the 19th Weipa Rodeo open online on 1 July, with almost 200 competitors expected to battle bucking beasts when the chutes fly open in August. Photo: Cape York Weekly.
Competitors are gearing up to put their reputations on the line when nominations for the 2024 Weipa Rodeo open on 1 July.
Weipa Rodeo Association (WRA) president Reuben Slingo said the nomination process would be completely online this year, with almost 200 riders expected to battle for western Cape York rodeo glory.
“In 2023 we had 172 nominated riders, many of whom competed in multiple events over the weekend,” he said.
“We would expect around the same numbers this year.”
While it remains to be seen which rodeo stars will be making the northern pilgrimage to compete in the 19th anniversary of the event, Mr Slingo announced which professional riders would be skippering the teams for the much-anticipated Cape of Origin.
“Our pro riders and the captains for the Cape Of Origin event are Eli Hunter, Braydon Wellby and Anthony Ryan,” he said.
“Our bull fighters this year are Joel Fabiani, Leith Malone, Jared Borghero.”
Andoom Oval will be transformed into rodeo central on 23-24 August for the event, with thousands of fans expected to attend over the two days.
Mr Slingo explained the speed of competitors flying out of the chutes was part of the key to keeping spectators engaged.
“We pride ourselves on having a very quick time between gate pulls,” he said.
“This keeps the event non-stop action from the minute you walk in and sit down, until the last beast bucks.”
To nominate for the 2024 Weipa Rodeo, visit the event website from next Monday.
