Locals spur on Geelong return to Rodeo

PRO RODEO was a resounding success upon its return to Geelong with bigger and better plans already percolating for next year’s event.

The Geelong Pro Rodeo made its return to Victoria’s South West for the first time in more than 12 years, as the community turned out in full force to the Geelong Showgrounds on February 12, according to co-owner of M5 Rodeo Promotions and event organiser Nicole McDonald.

“We have had lot of positive feedback and we didn’t really expect the numbers that we got on the day,” Ms McDonald said.

“Pre-sale tickets only give you a rough guide on what’s going to happen in terms of attendance, but the gate sales on the day kind of blew our hats back a bit. It was fantastic.”

The day’s events included barrel racing, team roping, and steer wrestling, but there were activities for the whole family to enjoy, with musician Gareth Leach providing musical entertainment.

“Cow Kids hour was such a hit, which allowed people who had never done rodeo before or were new to it to get involved,” Ms McDonald said.

“It was non-stop entertainment for the crowds from our junior rodeo that kicked off at 4pm on the day right through to the main events.

“The community of Geelong sure loves their rodeo.”

Ms McDonald said sponsors had already approached her and M5 to sponsor next year’s event, a promising sign as plans start to ramp up for 2023’s event.

“We have our rodeo ready to go in Echuca on February 25, but I’ll be booking dates in for next year’s rodeo in the next fortnight for early February,” Ms McDonald said.

“The only two changes we will look to be implementing for next year will be a bigger deck to accommodate more sponsors and elevated seating on the outside of the Arena to provide better viewing.

“Apart from these two changes, we will keep the format the same.”

Ms McDonald gave a thanked Scope Australia, who were responsible for the sponsor’s viewing deck, and Perry Demolition, who were major sponsors of the event on the day.