THE Rock is home to one of Australia’s most established rodeo stock contracting businesses.
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Yet it is possibly more than 10 years since the last rodeo was held in the town.
And according to John “Happy” Gill that event featured rough stock, without timed events.
The upcoming event on December 16 will be held within eye shot of the paddocks where famous bucking stock including High Flying Akubra graze.
For Mr Gill it’s a terrific opportunity for the town, and for southern NSW.
Each year the Gills load up the truck and cart stock to far flung regions in Queensland, NSW, South Australia and Victoria.
In fact the amount of kilometres travelled would be enormous.
So Mr Gill said it was an ideal opportunity to run something local.
The event will be held in the precinct of The Kings Own Hotel on the Olympic Highway.
Mr Gill said the aim was to bring family entertainment to southern NSW and at the same time raise funds for charities including Legacy, The Rock Men’s Shed, the local State Emergency Services and Rural Fire Service.
Entries aren’t open yet but already competitors including Australian champion saddle bronc rider Brad Pierce had pledged their support.
He will be joined by well-known Cody Angland and Ben Hall who are both know for their outstanding ability in the rough stock events.
“This is something we have been wanting to do for a long time,” Mr Gill said.
Although it is a limited events rodeo Mr Gill said there would be opportunities to see champion stock and accomplished competitors in team roping, saddle bronc, bull riding, bareback and barrel racing competitions.
And because the event was scheduled before the traditional Christmas run of rodeos it meant there was a possibility to lure competitors from throughout Australia.