The 2025 MAC Copper/CSA Mine adrenaline-pumping Rough Stock Rodeo attracted more than 215 entries on Saturday and, combined with an enthusiastic crowd and very warm weather, it made for a very memorable event.
The Beeza Memorial Open Bareback perpetual trophy was won by Gunnedah rider Dee Heinemann with a good score of 77 points while Brock Adams was second, after recording a 71 point ride.
Billy Nell, with a score of 78.5 points edged out Bailee Selten (78) to win the Bull Ride.
There was a tie for first place in the Saddle Bronc Ride with Jason Carlon and Oliver Wiggins both finishing with 68 points.
Tom Day and Brayden Ross, with 63 points each, tied for first place in the Novice Saddle Bronc.
First placed in Novice Bareback was Hamish McLean with 67 points while Jack Lees, with 64 points, was second.
The Novice Bull Ride event was won by Brayden Oddy (with 73 points) while following closely on 71 points, was second placed Simon Timmins.
The Ladies Barrel Race was won by Michelle Potter on Baby D with a time of 18.085 seconds ahead of Skyla Wicks and Scampa (18.117).
Charli Banaghan won the Women’s Ranch Bronc Ride with 65 points.
Brianna Learmonth and Fame is Easy finished in front in the Novice Barrel Horse Race with 18.414 ahead of Jodi Kilmartin and Bullet who finished second with 18.55.
In the Juniors grades, Cooper Craig was first in the 14-U18 years Junior Bull Ride, with 77 points, Brock Hamilton came in second on 75 points.
The 14-U18 years Juvenile Barrel Race was won by Gabriella Phillips with a time of 17.826 while Hannah Fulton was second with 18.131.
Kenzie Litchfield won the 11-U14 years Junior Barrel Race with a time of 18.618 while Charlize Selmes was second on 18.815.
James Ross won the 11-U14 years Junior Steer Ride with 60 points.
The 8-U11 years Barrel Race was won by Indi Potter with a time of 19.096 over second placed Maya Bandy with 19.356. In the 8-U11 years Junior Steer Ride, Blake Abbott was first with 62 points while second place was a tie between Brysen Bull (61) and Levi Craig (61).
A few locals also competed, including Chris Deighton, Daniel Pagett, Levi Prince and Charlie Miller however none completed their ride to earn a score.
They were however all very entertaining!
