SADDLE UP FOR HISTORY:
2025 MOUNT ISA MINES RODEO ANNOUNCES RECORD PRIZE POOL
Mount Isa, Queensland – The call’s gone out across the country: Mount Isa is upping the ante. In a move set to send ripples through the rodeo world like a record-breaking barrel race, the iconic Mount Isa Mines Rodeo has announced the biggest prize pool in its 66-year history—making the 2025 event a record-breaker already. IMAGES HERE
Organisers have confirmed that every single event—from saddle bronc and bull riding to steer wrestling and barrel racing—will offer more prize money than ever before. That means higher stakes, fiercer competition, and a serious drawcard for the country’s top riders.
Big bucks mean big names—and even bigger rides and runs. All open events at the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo now have a $15,000 purse, with 2nd Division Events at $2,000 and Junior events $500.00. The Indigenous Rodeo Championships now has a $2000 purse for Senior events and $500 for Junior.
“Bigger prizemoney means the best of the best will ride into town, bringing their A-game, their grit, and their wildest rides. It also means tougher bulls, bolder broncs, and edge-of-your-seat action for fans,” said Mark ‘Tommo’ Thompson, Chair of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo Community Board. "This is raising the bar," he said. “It’s about attracting elite talent, giving local and visiting fans the greatest show on dirt, and honouring the rodeo’s incredible legacy as we write the next chapter—led by locals, for locals.”
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell, said: “The iconic Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is an event that shines the light on Outback Queensland. It brings in visitors, fans and riders from across the country, and increasingly from across the globe - all keen to walk in the famous red dirt, and watch an Australian rodeo unlike any other.”
“This year visitors can experience a rare side of the Outback — when it comes spectacularly to life following the floods of April. While Mount Isa wasn’t affected by the floods, the surrounding regions were, giving drive tourists the opportunity to witness a once-in-a-lifetime kaleidoscope of colour paving the way to Isa!”
While the rodeo veterans bring the grit, it’s the next generation that’s lighting up the arena. The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is witnessing a phenomenal surge in junior competitors—young guns who ride with the heart of champions and the hunger to prove themselves on the famous red dirt of Buchanan Park. Add to that the unstoppable rise of women in rodeo, whose strength, speed and skill are rewriting the playbook.
A long way from 1959...
Back in 1959, the first Mount Isa Mines Rodeo offered just over £500 in prize money—a mighty sum for its time, but a whisper of what’s on offer now. Since then, it has grown to become the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of the most prestigious anywhere in the world. The 2025 event confirms its status as a juggernaut of the sport, drawing riders, fans, and media from far and wide.
Here’s what’s new in 2025:
- 🥇 Prize money increased across every single event—more incentive, more prestige, more legends made.
- 🎟️ Daily entry prices slashed; new affordable family passes introduced.
- 🐎 The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships returns for its fourth year, now on Sunday morning before the Open Finals.
- 🎤 Rodeo legend Luke Geiger is back to rock Friday and Saturday night.
- 🍔 Lower food and drink prices, because good times shouldn’t break the bank.
- ⛺ Affordable camping options for the full rodeo experience under Outback stars.
Will the Reigning Champions Return?
With the richest prize pool in the event’s 66-year history now up for grabs, fans are asking one big question: will the 2024 champions return to defend their titles?
All eyes are on All Round Cowboy Terry Evison, who dominated last year with a powerful performance in the Open Steer Wrestling (11.80 secs), and All Round Cowgirl Ellysa Kenny, who showcased all the hallmarks of a rising star. They’ll face fresh challengers, but their names are etched into the red dirt of Isa now — and the crowd will be watching closely. In the Open Bull Ride, Braydon Wellby proved why he’s one of the nation’s best, racking up a massive 168 points. The Open Saddle Bronc saw Clayton Braden claim the buckle with 164 points, while Luke Higgins took top honours in the Bareback with 161 points.
Sisters-in-arms Wendy and Leanne Caban lit up the Ladies Barrel Race, coming in at 34.909 and 35.414 seconds respectively — a thrilling duel for top spot. In the junior and mini ranks, rising rodeo royalty showed the future is bright. Bronzon Mara-Skellern conquered the Mini Bulls (11–14 years) with 73 points, Jayden Kenny blitzed the Junior Breakaway Roping with 3.40 secs, and Matty Ahern rode to victory in the Junior Bull Ride with 130 points.
And in the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, the raw talent was undeniable. Jed Farrington (Katherine) took out the Bull Ride (71 pts), Luke Metcalf (Western) won the Bareback (69 pts), and Kimba Fien (Injune) claimed the Saddle Bronc (72 pts). Local hope Jack Mullins thrilled the home crowd by taking out the Junior Steer event with 65 points.
Will they return in 2025 to go back-to-back, or will new names rise to claim rodeo glory on the richest red dirt in the Southern Hemisphere? One thing’s certain — it’s going to be one helluva ride.
The 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo takes over Buchanan Park, Mount Isa, from August 8–10, and promises three unforgettable days of grit, glory, and red dirt pride. Tickets are on sale now. The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships is proudly supported by the Queensland Government. The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
Mount Isa Mines Rodeo August 8 to 10
Tickets on sale: https://admin.mountisaminesrodeo.flicket.io/
Media Information:
- For interviews, imagery and vision, contact Kath Rose on 0416 291 493 or [email protected]
- For Media Accreditation to the event, as above.
Contact details:
- For interviews, imagery and vision, contact Kath Rose on 0416 291 493 or [email protected]
- For Media Accreditation to the event, as above.
