New financing sees return of Mount Isa Rodeo

The Mount Isa Rodeo has returned this weekend, boosted by funding from the Queensland Government under a new partnership with the Mount Isa City Council.

Placed into voluntary administration with massive debts in October 2024, the Queensland Government stepped in with additional funding through the Council to support the ongoing viability of the Rodeo, which has been on the Queensland events calendar for more than 60 years.

Commencing yesterday (Friday 8th August) and running until tomorrow, this year’s Rodeo features a variety of events, including bull riding, saddle bronc, bareback, steer wrestling, rope and tie, barrel racing and breakaway roping, along with live music, food stalls and a beer garden.

Tomorrow morning will showcase the Indigenous Rodeo Championships, highlighting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent in rodeo sports.

Speaking yesterday, Mount Isa Mayor, Peta MacRae said the Council was grateful for the partnership with the Queensland Government that will help support the ongoing viability of the famous Mount Isa Rodeo which is a huge economic and tourism drawcard for the region.

Mayor MacRae stated “we are grateful for the financial support we received from the Government which has ensured this year’s Rodeo will be the best yet, bringing together more than 22,000 locals and visitors in this wonderful place we call home.”

Attending the official opening of this year’s Rodeo, Queensland Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the Government was proud to support the Mount Isa Rodeo, commenting “(our) Government’s funding support and new partnership has given the iconic Mount Isa Rodeo financial security to be able to ride into its 66th year with this year’s event expected to be bigger and better than ever.

“We are proud to be able to officially open this year’s event with the more than 22,000 attendees and visitors set to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for the region and support local jobs.

“The (Queensland) Government has been able to breathe new life back into the Mount Isa Rodeo, which was on the brink of collapse, and send a strong message to Queenslanders that the Government backs outback tourism.”

Also attending the opening, Queensland Minister for Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation, Andrew Powell said the locally-run event was a hit with both locals and visitors, adding “iconic outback events like the Mount Isa Rodeo are major tourism drivers, with people travelling from around the world and the rest of the country to join in the unique atmosphere.

“Our visionary 20-year tourism plan, Destination 2045, includes a special focus on attracting and continuing events like these, so people have even more reasons to visit our amazing state.”

First held in 1959, this year’s event, being held at the city’s Buchanan Park, is expected to top $10 million in regional economic benefits.

The liquidation of the old Mount Isa Rodeo Ltd company remains ongoing but is expected to be finalised later this year.

Images: Events at past editions of the Mt Isa Rodeo.