The Mount Isa Indigenous Rodeo Championship appears to grow each year, bringing together thousands on Kalkadoon Country to witness the Blak cowboys, women and jarjums high-flying action.
This year's rodeo was a special one, launching the Ah One x Church Family Trans-Tasman Indigenous Rodeo Challenge, paying tribute to the role Blak stockmen and women played in the history of the rodeo.
Injune cowboy and Guggari man Kimba Fien wins the Indigenous Saddle Bronco contest Credit: Stephen Mowbray
The family did this for over 20 years, and became revered for their horsemanship, and the bloodline of these horses, because of George’s care, are still viewed as the best rodeo stock in the country.
Dallas Murphy competed in the 8-10 year age group on the mini bulls Credit: Stephen Mowbray
Proving themselves victorious, team Māori touch home the silverware, but captain of the team Merv Church says the rodeo is a special one for both families.
"We're doing a challenge, but we're brothers at the end of the day," said the 29 year old cowboy.
In a special moment on the night, the New Zealand team performed a powerful Haka in the red dirt arena, paying respect to the riders and Kalkadoon Country.
Māori Cowboys performing the Haka Credit: Supplied
