Well over 300 competitors are set to arrive for the three-day event, which has more than $45,000 in prize money and trophies up for grabs, including $25,000 in prize money for the open draft.

The big weekend kicks off on Friday, March 19 and includes a rodeo, campdraft, team penning, polocrosse, stockman's challenge and performance horse sale, as well as plenty more for Giddyup-goers to get up to.

President of the Giddyup committee, Kate Lenehan, Gundagai, said entries have been pleasing and the team penning books are already closed.

"We have had a tremendous response - it is not only the quantity of the entries but also the quality of the competitors we have managed to attract, which is so pleasing," she said.

"At this stage it seems the weekend will be a great success, which is very pleasing for all the people that have put in so much of their time and energy."

Those who aren't keen on participating can watch all the excitement, browse the generous amount of trade displays of saddlery, clothing and jewellery, watch information and entertainment presentations or take advantage of the food and hospitality booths. Australian Idol 2008 runner-up, Young's Luke Dickens, will wow the crowd when he performs on Friday evening, and supporting act Lachie Cossor Band is sure to get the crowd pumped.

The Gundagai community will benefit from the three-day extravaganza, with any surplus set to go back into the town to improve facilities.

n Adult ticket prices range from $15 for Friday only to $50 for a three day pass ($8 to $25 for children 10-15 years) with a three-day family pass available for $130.

For more information visit

www.gundagaigiddyup .com or phone (02) 6944 1888.