There hasn’t been a rodeo in Woodenbong for at least 23 years.

Renai Pearce and John O’Reilly are about to change that.

“I heard the guys talking about it at the pub, how good it was to have a rodeo,” Renai said.

Woodenbong was once well known for its rodeos.

In 1964, the Australian Rodeo Championships was held there.

On July 19, the rodeo is back at Woodenbong Showground.

“It’s good for business because it brings people to town,” John said.

All profits from the rodeo will go to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

“This is about bringing the town together,” Renai said.

There will be the usual rodeo events with past riders coming to see the rodeo after its long hiatus to see the NRA top bucking bull and Bulls & Broncos.

There will be a bar, hot food, live music by Country Mud at 9pm and an auction.

It is cash only for the auction. There have already many donations from local businesses.

Prizes have come from Brown and Hurley, Stuart Brothers Butchers, Richmond Valley Meats, Amanda’s Hair & Beauty, Foodworks Woodenbong, Bundaberg rum, Woodenbong Chemist and Woodenbong Post Office.

Reani and John need volunteers for setting up and putting down. Call 0419 155 101 if you can help.

Woodenbong Men’s Shed members will be running the gate. Tickets are cheaper if you buy them before July 19 online here.

Prices are: $20 for an adult, $35 a family, $10 kids. Camping is $20 a night.

On the day at the gate, you can buy tickets $25 for an adult, $45 for a family.

See you at the rodeo in Woodenbong on Saturday, July 19. Gates open 3pm. Rodeo starts 4pm.

This article appeared on indyNR.com on 5 July 2025.