About
EST. 1970
Where it all began
The Mt Garnet Rodeo as we know it today was established in 1970, beginning as a community fundraiser for the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children.
What started as a way for locals to come together for a good cause grew into an annual tradition — bringing competitors, families and visitors to Mt Garnet for a weekend of rodeo action and country hospitality.
More than five decades later, that same community spirit remains at the heart of the Mt Garnet Rodeo.
From wartime rodeos to generations of local competitors — the tradition runs deep.
A RODEO HISTORY THAT RUNS DEEP
RODEO IN MT GARNET — 1943
Mt Garnet’s connection with rodeo stretches back well beyond the event we know today.
During the Second World War, thousands of Australian troops were stationed and training throughout the Atherton Tablelands. Historical photographs held by the Australian War Memorial capture the 7th Australian Division Rodeo held at the Mt Garnet Racecourse on 18 July 1943, with servicemen gathered around the grounds to watch the action.
Records show rodeo and race meetings continued at Mt Garnet during the war years, including another event involving the 9th Australian Division in 1944.
These photographs offer an incredible glimpse into a tradition that has been part of Mt Garnet for generations.
Giving Back
SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY
The Mt Garnet Rodeo Association is proud to give back to the community that continues to support us.
Over the years, funds and support from the rodeo have contributed to local causes and community initiatives, including:
LOCAL FAMILIES
Providing financial assistance to local families when they need it most.
LOCAL SCHOOLS
Supporting Mt Garnet State School and helping local children participate in opportunities such as school camps.
DISASTER RELIEF
Contributing to drought and flood relief efforts when rural communities are doing it tough.
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Supporting organisations including the Rural Fire Brigade, local SES cadets and other important community initiatives.
Every person who buys a ticket, volunteers their time, competes, sponsors the event or comes along for the weekend helps us continue that tradition of giving back.
Same ground. New stories. Stronger together.
A TRADITION BUILT BY GENERATIONS
The Mt Garnet Rodeo Association is proud to give back to the community that continues to support us.
Over the years, funds and support from the rodeo have contributed to local causes and community initiatives, including:
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE RODEO
Our Committee
The Mt Garnet Rodeo doesn’t happen by itself.
Behind the chutes is a dedicated committee of local people who volunteer their time throughout the year to keep the rodeo tradition alive.
From maintaining the rodeo arena, yards and public seating to organising competitors, sponsors, volunteers and everything needed for rodeo weekend, there is an enormous amount of work that happens long before the gates open.
Together with our volunteers, sponsors and supporters, the committee is proud to continue an event that has become such an important part of Mt Garnet.
