Rodeo riders head for town

The toughest sport on dirt will arrive in Dunsborough next weekend as rodeo riders from around the nation take part in three hours of action in the ultimate battle of man against beast.

The Rodeofest is the first event of its type to take place in Dunsborough and is set to showcase saddle bronc, bareback, barrel racing and juniors’ steer rides.

Landowner and event organiser Darren Travers said he had planned to run a rodeo on his property for years and was excited to partner with Rodeofest Australia to bring an event to Dunsborough which was “raw and totally different”.

“We’ve never had a rodeo here although it’s perfectly fitting for the area,” he said. “So I think it really hit off because both of us are family men and putting on an event that’s not just a music festival or gig was really important to us.”

Mr Travers said the action-packed event would create a high-energy, adrenaline-filled experience for crowds.

“It’s like going to the speedway, you don’t want people to get hurt but you’re waiting for the crash,” he said.

“People want to feel the adrenaline that the riders feel and want to see the guys fall off and hit the ground — it’s all a part of it.”

Rodeofest promoter Rod Caddies said more than 50 bull riders would participate, with the top 10 riders in Australia also set to enter the arena.

Mr Caddies said spectators and riders were also expected to travel from Broome, Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Geraldton for the event.

“A lot of money will be spent in the community for accommodation, food, fuel and everything they (participants and spectators) spend on the weekend,” he said.

“It brings people from outside of town, but is also something for locals to enjoy.”

Mr Caddies said the Dunsborough Rodeofest had been well received online, with camping options selling out within two days and nearly half the event tickets sold.

Local food vans, stalls and country clothing venders and a VIP tent will be available with an urban cowgirl best fashion on the dirt prize also up for grabs.

Beer, wine, pre-mix or bubbles will be available from ‘the bull pit’ fully licensed bar and country-pop musician Ray Ryder will perform at the rodeo’s close until midnight.

The event will take place on Saturday, December 10. For more information or to buy tickets, visit dunsboroughrodeofest.com.au.