Entrants from across Australia flocked to Hay Showgrounds. There they threw their hats in the ring to compete for buckles and impressive cash prizes.

A huge crowd came forward to enjoy the 72nd Hay Rodeo, and the hours of good family entertainment.

Not only did children enjoy free face painting, they were enthralled by the trick rider.

Succulent and simple fare was on offer, with rave reviews about the steak sandwiches.

Every aspect of the rodeo was organised with precision, with very short lines to every part of entertainment and refreshment.

One of the many highlights of the evening was the ride for charity.

Six team members from the Transgrid / Electnor accommodation camp on the Cobb Highway – known as Camp 4 – put their collective hands up to be country cowboys for a night.

They all rode a steer in the name of charity.

The pro and the rookie: The rider on the left was one of the pro rodeo entrants, however Josh Smith (right) rode his first steer, for charity, as one of those raising funds for the Ward Family appeal. Photos: The Riverine Grazier / Margie McClelland.

Despite never riding before, the eager volunteers wanted to raise funds for Matt Ward’s home renovation costs.

Hay Rodeo committee passed buckets around the crowd on Saturday evening.

Further fundraising efforts have been organised within the camps and will continue for weeks to come.

Matt sustained an injury several months ago, to his C4 vertebrae, and is recovering at the Prince of Wales Hospital. He is expected to remain in the spinal unit for many more months and extensive renovations to the family’s home will be required.

Winners of rodeo events are as follows:

Bareback Bronc ride: Jarrod McKane. Steer Wrestling: Warren Norton. Rope and tie: Shane Kenny. Team Roping: Header Dylan Litchfield, Heeler Hayden Litchfield. Breakaway roping: Tyra Spring. Barrel race: Anna Hamilton. Second division Bull ride: Riley Bradshaw. Junior Barrel Race: Brandy Durbridge. Junior Steer Ride: Joseph Foxlee. Second Division Bareback Bronc Ride: Thomas Kohlhagen. Second Division saddle bronc ride: Riley Bradshaw. Open Steer Ride: Xavier Connally. Bull Ride: Dylan Wier.

See all the photos in the issue.
This article appeared in The Riverine Grazier, 5 March 2025.