Although the Mareeba arena is massive and the show/carnival behind the stands is enormous, the whole rodeo lacked the amtosphere and friendliness of previous rodeos. We found the cowboys quite rude and abrupt at times, and I felt segregated to "tourist" status any time I wanted to look and feel a bit like a cowgirl. It was very hard integrating into the culture of this wonderful institution. A bit disappointing overall, but the actual rodeo events didn't fail to impress.
At the FX Rodeo a year ago, several animals were injured and later had to be put down.... here at Mareeba, the animals held all the cards, and some competitors were severely injured, with several ambulance trips being made and unconscious competitors. It just goes to show how seriously the Qld cowboys take their compeition.
Next time, I'll avoid Mareeba, and any of the larger events, and stick to the smaller rustic events, where locals welcome you with open arms, and invite you to break bread and have a drink with them; and the events include poddy-scruffs and wild horse races which are some of the most entertaining and enjoyable events you'll ever see.
Sorry Mareeba, for all your size and glam, you just didn't fit the bill.
For what it's worth, enjoy the movies and photos - the animals and horses are really first-class!
Some of the competitors...
Even the kids have a go.....
The carnies and fair... and scary clowns...
Big Al entertains the crowd....
A ride that the bull won... and almost took out a clown in the process....
This horse wasn't too happy being stuck in the chute....
The woodchoppers.... big blokes with little arses!!
My birthday brekky.... pasta with basil pesto cooked outside....
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