If you’ve got what it takes to conquer Australia’s most famous red dirt, now’s your chance. Nominations are officially open for the 67th Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra, with Australia’s toughest cowboys and cowgirls invited to saddle up and battle for the country’s most coveted buckles in what promises to be one of the biggest rodeos yet.
From 7–9 August, Buchanan Park will once again become the beating heart of Australian rodeo, as almost 800 of the nation’s elite competitors descend on Mount Isa to chase glory, a share of the largest prize purse in the event’s 67-year history, and the chance to etch their name alongside the legends of the sport.
Fresh from a record comeback event in 2025 that attracted more than 16,000 spectators, organisers expect another blockbuster year, with accommodation across Mount Isa already nearing capacity as visitors plan their pilgrimage to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest rodeo. The nation’s best riders are expected to return to defend their titles against the legendary bucking horses and bulls of master stock contractor Eddie Gill, whose world-renowned stock has helped cement Mount Isa’s reputation as one of the toughest and most respected rodeos on the Australian circuit.
Mount Isa Pro Rodeo Community Board Chair Mark ‘Thommo’ Thompson said the countdown had officially begun. “The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo isn’t just another stop on the circuit, it’s the ride every cowboy and cowgirl wants to win,” he said. “The buckles awarded here are the most recognised and respected in Australian rodeo, and they’re sought after by riders right across the country and increasingly from overseas.”
“When you combine the best stock in Australia with the country’s best riders, you get something pretty special – faster times, bigger rides, and eight-second battles that people talk about for years. It’s a total coup for spectators, we can guarantee a bucket list experience!”
Mr Thompson said 2026 would also usher in an exciting new era for the sport. “We’re thrilled to introduce the inaugural Ladies Bronc Series, featuring 12 of Australia’s elite female bronc riders. Women’s bronc riding has a rich history in Australia, and it’s time these incredible athletes had their own stage at the country’s best rodeo.”
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell MP said the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo was one of the great regional events that showcased the very best of Queensland. “The Mount Isa Rodeo is everything that’s great about regional Queensland as it brings people together, attracts visitors from across the country and gives them a reason to experience the best of the North West,” Minister Powell said.
“When thousands of people come to Mount Isa, local businesses benefit because hotels fill up, pubs and cafes get busier, tourism operators welcome more visitors and local jobs are supported. The Crisafulli Government is backing events like this because don’t just create great memories, they create real economic opportunities for regional Queensland. “Queensland is the home of the holiday, and we’re making sure more people discover everything the North West has to offer by backing the events that put our regions on the map.”
Last year’s champions set an extraordinary benchmark. Tamworth’s Daniel Rogan conquered the Open Bull Ride, while Ben Rasmussen (Nevertire, NSW) claimed the Saddle Bronc title and Victorian Jarrod McKane dominated the Bareback Bronc.
The timed events were equally competitive, with Tom Willoughby (Victoria) winning the Steer Wrestling, Katina Matthews (NSW) taking out the Open Barrel Race, Heath Nichols (NSW) claiming Rope and Tie honours, and Campbell Hodson (Queensland) and Kia Clarke (NSW) combining to win the Team Roping.
One of the stories of the weekend belonged to twin sisters, Melissa and Stacey Wilburn—better known to Australians as the breakout stars of Travel Guides—who finished first and second in the Breakaway Roping, marking the first time the sisters had achieved the feat together.
Now, a new crop of challengers has the chance to write their own chapter in Mount Isa rodeo history. Nominations are now open. The red dirt is waiting.
ABOUT Mount Isa Mines Rodeo – it is the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the biggest in the world. It’s where champions return to defend their titles, rising stars carve their names into history, and eight electrifying seconds can feel like an eternity. For three adrenaline-fueled days, Mount Isa in Outback Queensland comes alive with the raw power of bull riding, bronc busting, barrel racing, roping and more, as the world’s toughest cowboys and cowgirls battle for some of the most coveted buckles in rodeo. Since 1959, the red dust of Mount Isa has risen beneath hooves, boots, and the roar of the crowd. The rodeo is the heartbeat of Outback Queensland, and an event that welcomes riders and fans from all over the globe.
2026 MOUNT ISA MINES RODEO presented by Akubra
Fri 7th August – Sun 9th August 2026
Buchanan Park Events Complex, George St & Sutton St, Mount Isa QLD 4825
Website and TICKETS ON SALE NOW: www.mountisarodeo.com.au
The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
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