THE Alexandra Pro Rodeo delivered on its promise of rocking, rolling, fast paced bucking action, with the Saturday night event drawing huge crowd numbers intent on having a good time.
The sixth annual rodeo for the committee, the event has firmly cemented itself on the APRA calendar, with both riders and spectators alike already penciling next year's date – January 13 – in the diary.
"It's always the second weekend in January," said Andrew Embling from the organizing committee.
"We're licensed for 5000 and it was at capacity, and the vibe was amazing.
"We had a couple of cowboys out of Queensland competing on the night riding broncs, and they were in the shoot ready to go.
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"The announcers were puffing them up, and the crowd was right in there behind them all the way.
"When they came out into the arena – the noise from the crowd – the riders just said it made them rise to that next level.
"One of the riders openly said it's the best rodeo in Australia based on atmosphere alone and the location, as the hill creates this natural amphitheatre at the Dame Pattie Menzies Centre."
Andrew said that presale demand for tickets was strong with organisers selling 3500 tickets in the build–up, with 1800 tickets bought online on the day itself.
"It was a great night under the lights," said Andrew.
"And the crowd was absolutely ecstatic, with the majority staying on after for the live music.
"We ran a good sharp four hour rodeo, and I have to say Benalla–based McPhee Rodeo Promotions had their stock in absolutely prime condition.
"They were in such good order and I have to say that is the best bucking I've ever seen.
"Only one bull rider, Sully Malay, managed to make time and he went on to win the buckle."
With the rodeo drawing the same number of contestants as previous years, seven open bull riders competed for the ultimate glory, with Andrew excited about the hype that 2024 is already drawing.
Run by a small committee of volunteers, proceeds are invested back into the community, with the local netball club organizing the barbeque and the football club manning the bar.
"The scouts came in and cleaned up the hill the day after the event.
"It was a massive undertaking but they did a stellar job, and raised $1000 for their club," Andrew said.
"It's the support of our local businesses and community that make the Alex Rodeo such a huge success.
"I'd like to extend a huge thank you to all our sponsors, and in particular mention Sabre Pastoral, the Thornton Butcher, Boost Transport, Lion Nathan and Shire of Murrindindi for coming on board as our major sponsors.
"We couldn't do it without you."
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Sally from Photos by Sally H is an equine photographer based in Cobram, who has been photographing horse events and studs for the last 37 years.
"It's a special office, and I love it," said Sally.
You can check out her website at photosbysallyh.com.au
