The Alexandra Pro Rodeo returned with a bang, combining the loved annual event with a fundraiser for bushfire relief.
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Turbo360
Alexandra’s rodeo has returned in style, drawing strong crowds, elite competitors and a powerful show of support for firefighters as the town continues to recover from this summer’s bushfires.
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Event organiser Andrew Embling said the night was a clear success, with over 4500 spectators.
“The whole night went off very well — it was just a great night and everybody seemed to enjoy themselves,” he said.
A revised format, blending rodeo with live music, proved popular with the crowd.
“We were a little bit unsure how people would take the concept, but the public have certainly taken to it,” Mr Embling said.
“Every time the music came on, there were people down the front watching the artists.”
Almost 95 competitors travelled to Alexandra from across Victoria, the Riverina and Queensland, contesting events including bareback, saddle bronc, barrel racing and bull riding.
“To see Jarrod McCain, our Australian champion, come out and win again, was pretty special,” Mr Embling said.
A standout addition was the first‑ever ladies’ bronc ride at Alexandra.
“They did a great job and it was great for the crowd,” he said.
Competitors travelled to Alexandra from all over the country, competing for unique Alexandra Rodeo buckles.
Photo by
Turbo360
The most emotional moment of the night came during a grand entry recognising firefighters and first responders.
“It was a very, very emotional ceremony — not a word was said through it,” Mr Embling said.
“It was about saying a very big thank you to our firemen who fought the fires back in January.
“That was fairly emotional, but it was important to acknowledge what the community went through.”
Despite attracting a younger-than-usual audience, the event passed without incident and delivered a major boost for the town, with accommodation nearly full and cafés and businesses packed throughout the weekend.
Proceeds from the rodeo supported bushfire recovery organisations including Rotary, Lions, Farm Angels and Rural Aid, with volunteers from across the community contributing to the event’s success.
For Alexandra, the rodeo was a celebration of resilience and renewal.
