By Alana Mitchelson
The Bunyip Rodeo attracted record entries and has proved itself a worthy rodeo event, according to volunteers.
It attracted 115 entries – more than double last year’s inaugural event.
Bunyip Rodeo Group Committee president Kasey Wilson said there were also about 1000 more visitors this year.
“We had 115 entries. That’s a lot of cowboys and bull riders,” she said.
“I think a lot of people weren’t sure if we could put on a good show but with social media these days, word spread so quickly that it was a huge success.
“I think it’s been popular because it’s something a little bit different. There’s not another rodeo event in such close proximity to the Bunyip area.“
Ms Wilson said that being an afternoon event, the rodeo attracted many families.
There were rides for the kids, food vans and Bunyip Market on Saturday 21 January from 11am.
She said the camping ground had filled up over the weekend and that the Bunyip hotels were busy.
“That flowed through to Garfield too.
“It’s run as a not-for-profit event by volunteers and all money raised is directed back into the community.”
Volunteers thanked sponsors for their support, which enabled the organisers to raise the prizemoney to attract more entries.
The winners were as follows:
– Open Bull Ride: Bailey Woodard;
– Second Division Bull Ride: Bailey Woodard;
– Open Bare Back: Luke Higgins;
– Open Saddle Bronc: Cooper Thatcher;
– Second Division Saddle Bronc: Tanna Ireland;
– Ladies Barrel Race: Leslee Moore;
– Junior Barrel Race: Dana Johnson;
– Junior Bull Ride: Dylan Richardson and Kelsey Pavlou; and
– Local Barrel Race: Jacqui Burns.
