Tourists spend record $12.24 million at 2019 Isa Rodeo

New data shows tourists spent a record $12.24 million in the local economy at this year’s 60th Anniversary Mount Isa Mines Rodeo – $500,000 more than in 2018.

Advising that the overall attendance figure had surpassed 2018’s previous record, with attendance of 39,933 over the four-day event, generating more than 64,000 visitor nights, Queensland Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones stated "to see this event attract record crowds and break visitor expenditure records is a great coup.

“Events are crucial when it comes to growing our tourism industry. That’s why we’re investing heavily in this industry and supporting operators to grow their events.

“Earlier this year the Premier declared 2019 the Year of Outback Tourism. This was proof of the government’s focus to grow outback tourism. The fact that we’ve seen strong growth in this sector in 2019 is a testament to the fact that the government's strategy is working.”

Mount Isa Mines Chief Executive Natalie Flecker said the Isa Rodeo was committed to delivering a world-class experience in Outback Queensland, commenting "it has been a very challenging year for our region and of course, for many other parts of Australia.

“We are thrilled to not only maintain the 20% increase in attendance for the past two consecutive years, but also to achieve an increase in 2019, our 60th year.

“We are already working on the 2020 rodeo and would love to welcome even more visitors to Outback Queensland for this truly iconic event.”

Flecker acknowledged the support of Tourism and Events Queensland, naming rights sponsor Mount Isa Mines and other loyal sponsors was instrumental to the event’s continued success, noting "we are very proud to have directly donated more than $5 million back to our community plus provided the major fundraising platform for many local community groups and charities over the years.”

Adding that the rodeo provided significant economic benefits for local businesses and community groups, Mount Isa Mines General Manager of Health, Safety, Environment and Community Maryann Wipaki explained "in 2019, more than 35 local community groups benefitted from the opportunity to provide services at the rodeo, providing for self-sustaining community fundraising, enterprise development and industry diversification.

“We’re proud to be the naming rights sponsor and acknowledge the success of this iconic event and the benefits it brings to the region.”

The Mount Isa Mines 60th Rodeo was held from 8th to 11th  August 2019 and included the return of the popular international challenge featuring North American competitors and entertainment lineup including John `The Voice’ Farnham live in the arena, as well as Birds of Tokyo, Lee Kernaghan and Casey Barnes.

The 62nd Isa Rodeo will be held from 9th to 12th  August 2020.

Isa Rodeo holds the Australian Tourism Award for Festivals and Events – winning Gold (2018), Silver (2017) and Gold (2016).

Image courtesy of Outback Queensland