Legends Lead the Way: Rodeo Greats Back Indigenous Talent in Isa
Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships Returns
Free Indigenous Rodeo Clinic Announced
In just four years, the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships has grown into a multi-award-winning event — one that unites riders, artists and fans, celebrates the extraordinary talent of First Nations athletes, and generates serious revenue for the region. Nominations have officially opened, with the exciting announcement of a free Indigenous Rodeo Clinic, led by two of the country’s top cowboys: Donovan Rutherford and Jake Curr. Images here
This year, the Indigenous Rodeo Championships will be held on the morning of Sunday August 10, ahead of the Open Finals — making for an action-packed finale to the three legendary days of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo.
Last year, raw talent was on full display: Jed Farrington (Katherine) took out the Bull Ride with 71 points, Luke Metcalf (Western) claimed the Bareback with 69 points, and Kimba Fien (Injune) rode to victory in the Saddle Bronc on 72 points. Local hope Jack Mullins thrilled the home crowd by winning the Junior Steer event with 65 points. Steer Wrestling was dominated by Mount Isa cowboys, with 27-year-old Layne Creer taking the coveted buckle ahead of 19-year-old Cordel Gosbee.
Mount Isa Rodeo Community Board Chair Mark ‘Tommo’ Thompson said he hopes Indigenous riders from across the country will nominate and make the journey to ‘Isa. “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 said. “We’re proud to announce and host a free Indigenous Rodeo Clinic on Thursday August 7.”
Leading the clinic is proud Kalkadoon cowboy, national rodeo champion and PBR star Donovan Rutherford, alongside his lifelong mate, PBR Rookie Champion Jake Curr. The pair have been riding together since they were six years old, starting on poddy calves and rising through the ranks to take on the best in the country — and win. They’ll be joined by six-time Australian Champion Protection Athlete and proud Waanyi man Darryl ‘Chongy’ Chong, whose involvement in Mount Isa Rodeo is legendary, as is his commitment to mentoring and guiding the next generation of riders. Together, Donovan, Jake and Chongy will lead riders through the fundamentals of rodeo — from skills and safety to confidence and connection — helping to build not just talent, but a stronger, more inclusive future for the sport.
To nominate for the Indigenous Rodeo Championships: [email protected]
Riders looking to take part in the Indigenous Rodeo Clinic can register at [email protected]
Date: Thursday 7th August 2025
Time: 9am start – 3pm finish
Location: Mount Isa Campdrafts Grounds
Who: open to all indigenous competitors juniors & up
About the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships
The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships has received national acclaim, winning GOLD at the Queensland Tourism Awards in the Festivals and Events category, and the Queensland Reconciliation Award for Partnerships alongside Mona Aboriginal Corporation. Research from Tourism and Events Queensland shows the 2023 event generated $1.79 million in direct and incremental spend for the Mount Isa economy, and $1.3 million for Queensland.
Mount Isa Mines Rodeo August 8 to 10 at Buchanan Park, Mount Isa
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The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships is proudly supported by the Queensland Government.
The Mount Isa Rodeo Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
Contact details:
Kath Rose on [email protected] or 0416 291 493
