Rodeo whips up fun

The bulls charged, horses bucked and lasso's whipped last weekend as more than 74 riders took part in the Onslow Rodeo in front of more than 800 people.

Riders came from as far as Derby, Broome, Halls Creek and Perth to compete for a total prize pool of $22,300 with $2500 up for grabs in major events and $1250 in the minor events.

Rodeo vice-president Bob Harris said the event required a lot of money to attract people from all over the State.

Events included the steer ride, steer undecorating, breakaway roping, saddle bronc, team roping, steer wrestling, bareback bronc, rope and tie, barrel course, station buckjump and the ever-popular bull ride.

Spectators enjoyed the new kitchen as food had been served at all previous rodeos out of a tent. Roebourne bull rider Bevan Walley said he loved to bring his family up, participating in the events and meeting the station owners.

“For me I come from the community and you know we got nothing in Roebourne, nothing in Karratha and Wickham as well so having something like this, for me it’s really good,” he said.

Another rider Rhys Morrissey said it was good competition with a lot of riders from Perth and talented locals who can ride well.

The event also raised more than $3000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service through charity rides and fundraising including the security guard doing a bull ride.

Hit N’ Run entertained the crowd later on into the night.

It was a points event with points earned going towards the Australian Bushmen’s Campdrafting and Rodeo Association national final.