By Jess Baker
Warwick’s famous Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft will return in October, with organisers determined to raise the bar after last year’s Covid-induced cancellation.
Often referred to as the ‘Melbourne Cup’ of campdrafting, the Warwick Gold Cup boasts more riders and more prize money than any other campdraft in Australia.
The Rodeo is also highly anticipated each year, but perhaps never more so than in 2021 following its year-long hiatus.
Teilah Mckelvey of the Warwick Show and Rodeo Society said plans are in motion to ensure the 2021 event, which will be held from 25 October to 31 October, is better than ever before.
“This year we will continue to host the APRA National Finals, where Australia’s top cowboys and cowgirls will compete for their titles,” she said.
Teilah said the society is eager to welcome competitors back to the arena for the Gold Cup Campdraft after what has been a few tough years of drought and water security issues.
“We can’t wait to invite visitors to our region to enjoy some good old country hospitality, enjoy the spectacle that is the Rodeo and Campdraft and kick up the dust into the night with live entertainment,” she said.
She said events across the region have experienced a massive spike in attendance since Covid-19 regulations were relaxed, and the Warwick Show and Rodeo Society is hoping the 2021 Rodeo and Campdraft will garner similar attention.
Last year was the first year the Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft had been cancelled in more than half a century.
Previously, the Warwick Show and Rodeo Society had only ever pulled the plug on the event in 1965 due to extreme drought and, before that, during World War II.
The event is known to draw crowds in excess of 30,000 people, as well as riders and horses from across the country, in turn generating significant economic activity.
More than that, it has provided people an opportunity for reprieve during times of drought, bushfires, and – more recently – Covid-19.
Teilah said the society’s events and marketing team is working closely with Queensland Health to ensure the event is Covid-safe.
Tickets will be available in early June via the Warwick Show and Rodeo website, with pre-purchasing encouraged as spaces are limited in accordance with Covid-safe requirements.
More information about the event, including ticket release dates and prize money payouts, will be shared to Warwick Show and Rodeo Society’s Facebook and website warwickshowandrodeo.com.au/.
