The Bidgee Big Bash Jackpot was held for the second time recently, running at the Narrandera Rodeo Grounds.

The event is run by the Team Roping Association and attracted competitors from all over NSW as well as South Australia and Victoria.

According to the event organiser Melanie Drysdale, they hope to continue to run the event every year.

“This is our second time running and we do hope to keep running it,” Mrs Drysdale said.

“There is just a lack of events in our area, we’re passionate about it and want to see things go forward and give people somewhere to go.

“It also brings money and eyes into communities where the events are run but also a social side for people that are passionate about it and use it as a getaway.”

The event costs the TRA over $30,000 to bring it together and cover costs of feed, vouchers, fire pits and much more.

There were over 150 contestants who competed in six different events held over the weekend with organisers noting that this year’s event was definitely bigger than the last. Standout competitors included the hi-point cowboy of the weekend Josh Symes from Leeton who won the steer wrestling, open team roping and 12s team roping.

Others included Nilma North’s Georgie Kapeller who was named hi-point cowgirl of the weekend and Hayden Litchfield from Tabbita who claimed junior cowboy.

The events on the day included open team roping, 12s 10s; 8s divisional numbered roping, steer wrestling, breakaway roping, barrel racing, dummy ropings and junior barrel race.

The Narrandera Rodeo Committee catered for the event providing meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner over the weekend. 

This article appeared in the Narrandera Argus, 22 June 2023.