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Everything You Need to Know About the Mount Isa Rodeo

Everything You Need to Know About the Mount Isa Rodeo
on 01 July 2021 in Events & Entertainment

Mark your calendars for the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere. Happening this 12 August to 15 August 2021, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo springs back in action.

Where the romantic Australian Outback meets the true grit of the Mount Isa mining town, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo brings forth a moment where “east meets west and man meets beast”.

Acting as Australia’s richest rodeo prize pool, the event attracts a strong 750 competitors from all over Australia and the world. The competition is tough, with events competed in an open air arena over the course of 4 days, offering non-stop rodeo action for everyone. 

Back that with quality live entertainment, street parties, Outback market and food stalls, the Mount Isa Rodeo guarantees fun and excitement for everyone. 

Don’t miss out on your chance to experience a legend that continues since 1959, Mount Isa Rodeo tickets are on sale now. Gates are open on Thursday 12 August at 8am and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 13-15 August at 8.30am.

The Rodeo action

It’s fast, it’s furious, and it’s dangerous. The bull riding event of the rodeo is a highlight not to be missed. The challenge of every rider is to hold on with one hand while staying on a bucking Bull for at least 8 seconds.

Both rider and animal are judged, the rider for his style and ability to stay on, and the bull for his ability to buck the rider before time’s up. The challenge is to keep his free hand free, for any touching means instant disqualification.

The saddle bronc event is about synchronising spurring actions with a horse’s bucking and stay on for at least 8 seconds. Similar to the bull riding, the rider is judged in style and is disqualified if he touches the horse or saddle with his free hand.

Bareback bronc involves only a handle and leather pad with the rider challenged to stay on for 8 seconds. The same rules apply as the saddle bronc. 

Other rodeo events include steer wrestling, rope and tie, team roping, ladies barrel racing, ladies breakaway roping, and poddy rides. 

Mount Isa Rodeo Live entertainment 

The magnificence with the Mount Isa Rodeo goes beyond the rodeo itself. With live entertainment and rodeo rock concerts playing it up throughout the event, you will be constantly entertained. 

Featuring the likes of Guy Sebastian supported by country rock artist Casey Barnes, Friday 13 August promises a rocking night. On Saturday night, 37 time Golden Guitar winner and country rock legend Lee Kernaghan will be hitting the stage with classic performances including “Boys from the Bush”, “Australian Boy”, “The Outback Club” and more.

Party up at the Isa Hotel

Official Hotel Partner of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, the Isa Hotel has big plans to celebrate the event in style – ensuring that the party does indeed go on. 

With a full suite of programs and events happening at the Isa Hotel throughout the week, the prelude begins on Tuesday 10 August where the Mount Isa City Council will host the Isa Street Festival and Street Parade from 6pm. Take in the sights and sounds of the shows, the floats, and the variety of stalls selling local creations and food. Live entertainment will be supplied by the one and only Aussie legend, Darryl Braithwaite. 

Wednesday 11 August to Saturday 14 August is when the action happens. With the party continuing in the Isa Hotel car park, you won’t want to miss out on the ongoing fun. Try your luck on a mechanical bull ride, don a pair of boxing gloves and take on a boxer from Fred Bropht’s Boxing Troupe (if you dare), and dance to your heart’s content with live DJ spin tunes every evening from 9pm to late. 

For food, head to the Rodeo Bar & Grill for a true western cowboy experience at an Aussie Outback Steakhouse. Featuring delicious premium meats grilled just the way you like it, the ultimate Mount Isa Rodeo is one that doesn’t forget about the Isa Hotel’s Rodeo Bar & Grill. Book a table to avoid disappointment or call (07) 4749 8888 instead.

Oh, and if you’re an avid fan of the Isa Rodeo and want to collect some awesome merchandise, the Isa Hotel has its very own limited edition Mount Isa Rodeo merchandise range. From caps to stubby coolers and more, get your merch from the Redearth reception team.

Where to stay in Mount Isa for the Mount Isa Rodeo

For those who need Mount Isa accommodation during the Mount Isa Rodeo, check in at the Isa Hotel for a great experience. We say experience because booking a stay with us isn’t just about sleep – after all, we’re the official hotel partner of the 2021 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo. This means plenty of rodeo themed excitement throughout your stay. 

And, we’re also just a stone's throw away from the event, meaning you can get to the action and back in just a heartbeat! 

Banner image credit: Stephen Mowbray