Friday, April 26, 2013

Ten Days in the Towers

With 10 days of live action,  singing, dancing, busking and bush poetry - this Charters Towers event is set to be the biggest one yet.  This year's festival has more music, activities, food and fair dinkum fun than ever before!

This Charters Towers event punches a country music punch with a full 10 day program of unique Australian activities including Australian Bush Breakfast, Busking Competition, Australian Bush Poets Championship, Country Music Talent Quest, Line Dancers Social, Sunset Markets, Patchwork Quilt Show, Jamboree, Ute Muster,  Family Concert and Anzac Day March all rolled into the week and a half.

Charters Towers Showgrounds Camping Sites:
Powered camping sites available,Toilets and shower facilities

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Harry Redford Cattle Drive

An adventure of a lifetime!

Welcome to the Harry Redford Cattle Drive, the ultimate, authentic, true blue, fair dinkum Aussie outback experience.

Over 19 unforgettable, spectacular days, some of Australia´s most experienced drovers will drive approximately 600 head of cattle by horseback through the twists of the rugged Redford trail, reliving one of the world´s greatest cattle duffing drives known to man.

This 3 week trek takes in some of the most impressive scenery in the Aramac Shire.

How long you go is up to you! Choose from 3 day to 3 weeks or any time in between! For the first week a 6 day minimum applies. You will be instructed how to ride a horse and drive the cattle throughout the day. Horses are provided, matched to riders and spelled during the day for you.

Expect to see spectacular desert country, amazing claypans and the brilliant Mitchell grass plains as your journey takes in 200 kilometres from Lake Dunn (near Aramac) to Muttaburra.

With wide-open rolling plains, natural lakes, historical Aboriginal sites and a sky that stretches from one horizon to the other - spectacular by day and glowing with stars by night.

A land with some of the oldest geology on the planet; it´s a vast, uncompromising land that turns everyday battlers into heroes and legends.

To visit here is to experience the vastness of  Outback Queensland.

Each day the support crew sets up camp, and offers hearty camp oven cooking for you to enjoy. Breakfast, morning smoko, lunch, afternoon smoko and evening meal are provided.

Camping is under the stars and an authentic droving experience.

The team at Outbacknow have had the pleasure and privilege of joining the Harry Redford crew and guest drovers over 2 evenings during the 2012 drive. The atmosphere could only be described as exhilarating around the campfire in the evening. The food was first class and at an impromptu "awards" ceremony the guest drovers (some of whom were repeat guests) from all walks of life agreed unanimously that the Harry Redford Cattle Drive was a highlight of their life, The holiday of a lifetime and many vowed to return.

Friday, May 24, 2013

Blackall Heartland Festival

The Blackall Heartland Festival is an annual celebration from our HEART using ART in a LAND we choose to live.

The festival celebrates multi-arts and multiculutral activities in a very creative way, evolving with community strengths, engagement and committment. The Heartland Festival's vision is to see it progress and grow into a significant event promoting Blackall as the arts and cultural hub of central west Queensland.

Each year the festival is planned and developed with a theme, and last years theme was "Ice on Water".

Friday, May 24, 2013

Never Never Festival

Welcome to the Never Never Festival Mataranka NT

A magical weekend filled with fun for all the family.

A bumper, magical weekend filled with lots of activities for all ages.

The weekend starts on Friday with the Biggest Morning Tea in the picturesque grounds of the Mataranka Store supporting the Cancer, Council Fundraising, Coodardie Brahmans Stud Cattle Auction with Ray White Rural - sale open to the public - on Friday afternoon followed by a family evening of “Walk-Up Bush Yarns and Poetry” and a camp oven stew and damper meal at the Territory Manor. Come and share your poem or yarn or just enjoy those of others as well as being entertained by special guest artist Tim Rickards from Alice Springs.

Saturday a Family Fun Day in the park with fun activities with the KICS (Katherine Isolated Children’s Service), Life Be In It activities, a jumping castle and water slide and be entertained by The Amazing Drumming Monkeys from Adelaide -2 free performances.

The Stockyard Gallery and Garden Café has book signing by local authors and Indigenous artist and author Reggie Sultan will be in residence.

A cricket match at the Sport and Recreation will precede a Gymkhana and Jackpot Bull Ride and be followed by live entertainment with the Baker Bros band from Darwin.

On Sunday a Bush Chapel service will be held in the park and a market at the Territory Manor.

Opportunities for stalls on Saturday and Sunday-and performers on Saturday.

Other activities include a photo competition –entries close April 29 –Theme Boots and/or Hats, Museum and Library open at various times, lots of catering at the venues and two Thermal pools to swim and relax in at any time.

Community Event of the Year  - 2011 Never Never Festival
This award recipient was co-ordinated by the Mataranka Better Half Club committee and brings visitors to our town each year as well as a lot of publicity. A lot of hard work goes into it each year by the locals and each year it is getting bigger and better.

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Hawker Races and Cabaret

The annual Hawker Races are held on the last Saturday of every May. The Club was first registered in 1882, however it lapsed for a period starting in the 1920’s but was reactivated in 1953 and has been active ever since. 

Public interest in country racing has been growing considerably and this was certainly the case for the 2006 Hawker Cup, with over 1000 people attending the day. Not a bad effort for a group of locals who volunteer their time and services to organise the day. Of course the committee relies heavily on donations from local businesses and at present there are over 25 sponsors contributing to the success of the day.

With the Flinders Ranges as the backdrop, the day starts with the Calcutta at 12 noon sharp and reaches a climax with the ‘Northpoint Toyota’ Hawker Cup, an 1800m sprint with a $9000 prize up for grabs.

When the horses aren’t thumping down the track there is plenty of family entertainment including a Children’s Play Centre, a Giant Slide, Fashions of The Field, and various trade stalls including country clothing and woodcraft.

On-course bookies and Sky Racing Channel are available for the serious race-goers.

Full bar facilities are available as well as a Champagne Tent and Wine Tasting.

When the hunger hits you can choose between an outback BBQ, freshly made sandwiches and cakes or hot donuts.

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Landsborough Flock Ewe Show

Muttaburra is one of five communities within the 53677 sq km Barcaldine Regional Council area and is the most remote. Muttaburra is located at the geographical Centre of Queensland about 1.5 hours north of both Longreach and Barcaldine. 

The Landsborough Flock Ewe Show attracts people of all ages including families with children who are well catered for at this very popular one day rural Festival. Visitors from outside the area describe it as a ‘highlight’ and The Harry Redford Cattle Drive has in the past culminated at the Show, swelling the crowd with tourists from out of the area.

This well run event held at the Muttaburra Race Course captures the imagination of locals and visitors alike and gives them the opportunity to attend a day that caters for a variety of interests.  

The main focus of the day is to promote our local industries. Sheep/wool and cattle competitions are held along with extensive displays of farm equipment available for sale together with the latest in technology and work/health and safety, vegetation management & grazing practises by both Government departments & Private enterprise companies.

The Pavilion is a hive of activity with the sale & display of crafts, gifts, soft furnishings, all manner of fashion accessories, jewellery, shoes and hats, photographs, art, and a plant nursery.  It is a worthwhile opportunity for local artists of all disciplines to showcase their wares.

A popular crowd pleaser of the day is the afternoon Fashion Parade and live entertainment at night.

A very small dedicated committee plan, organise & run the day and all work on a volunteer basis.  There is no charge for admittance to the Event.  It has a very typical bush theme & showcases Rural Queensland in a friendly atmosphere, with great pride.  This Event promotes the social, cultural & economic benefits of our Community and has previously won ‘Event of the Year’.

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Katherine Country Music Muster

The Katherine Country Music Muster Association was established to lift the spirits of those affected by the devastating floods in 1998. The association is a non profit organisation where all responsibilities and undertakings are carried out by volunteers of the community.

Come along and enjoy the weekend under the Majestic Mahogany trees at the Katherine Museum on Gorge Road 2 km from the Post Office!!
The Katherine Country Music Muster is non-stop music at one of the best country music festivals in the north.

Throughout the event:

Great Food open all hours

Bar Facilities available

Katherine Country Music Muster Merchandise Tent

Family Day Sunday with Children Activities.

Parking is available on the old air strip adjacent to the Museum grounds. No eskies please as it contravenes our license.

More about Katherine

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Cloncurry Race Day Meet

Cloncurry Race Club has been established since the early 1890’s, and is strongly supported by the local racing fraternity and regional horse trainers. The Race Day caters for the whole family with children’s playgrounds on course, lollydrops & entertainment for the kids. Ladies get involved by entering our Fashions of the Field competition by frocking up on the day.

The best of local and regional horses compete for top prize money...

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

The Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show

Queensland caravan show to showcase latest and greatest

Travel enthusiasts are expected to roll into Brisbane’s RNA Showgrounds in their tens of thousands when one of Australia’s largest caravan exhibitions, the Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show, sets up camp between 5 and 11 June 2013.

Showcasing the latest for holidaymakers and road travelers, the show continues to be staged at Brisbane’s iconic RNA Showgrounds in areas unaffected by the current redevelopment. 

Reflecting the continued popularity of touring holidays across couples, families and retirees, the show will cater for the budget camper through to the deluxe motorhome devotee.

The show will feature nearly 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations, services, and destinations, along with informative and entertaining seminars and displays.

Last year, more than 70,000 people visited the show and organisers are expecting a similarly strong attendance this year with renewed interest in affordable Australian holidays.  

Visitors to this year’s show will also have the opportunity to win a caravan, complete with a tinnie and outboard motor.

Today, there are about 400,000 caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers registered in Australia, making it one of the world’s most caravan-friendly countries. There are 112,000 registered in Queensland alone.

• Queensland Caravan, Camping and Touring Holiday Show

• Wednesday 5 June to Tuesday 11 June 2013

• 10am to 6pm daily - close at 4pm on Tuesday 11th June

• RNA Showgrounds, Gregory Terrace, Fortitude Valley

• Adults: $18, Pensioners: $12, Accompanied School Children: Free (Prices TBC)

• Free trains to operate to the RNA Showgrounds from the Fortitude Valley, Central and Roma Street Stations

Please Note....

Parking is limited at the RNA Showgrounds and it is strongly recomended that you take advantage of the free train services and leave your car at Fortitude Valley, Central or Roma Street Station.

Friday, June 7, 2013

Weipa Fishing Classic

The Weipa Fishing Classic will be held from Friday to Sunday at the Weipa Campus, Western Cape College, Weipa, Cape York, Far North Queensland and offering over $100,000 in prizes this event is well worth a look.

Saturday, June 8, 2013

Tattersalls Finke Desert Race

The Tattersall’s Finke Desert Race is an off road, multi terrain two-day race through desert country from Alice Springs to the small Aputula (Finke) Community. The race crosses the Finke River, believed to be the oldest river in the world 

Saturday, June 8, 2013

Nindigully Pedalling Pink For A Cure

In the South West of Queensland Steve Burns is a bit of a legend in event management circles – he sure knows how to give people a good time.

On Friday May 10 some special people are riding a Quadricycle from Cairns to Nindigully via a heap of towns to raise money for the McGrath Foundation.

Finishing off their journey at the Nindigully Hotel on Saturday 8th June 2013

Please support these wonderful people...

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Mitchell - Maranoa Diggers Races

Maranoa Diggers Race Club

Invites you to the Mitchell Races on Saturday, Long Weekend in  May 

Maranoa Races Day Highlights:

5 Race Program, Bookies & Sky Channel, Entertainment Until Late – DJ John MacFarlane, Fashions On The Field – Adults & Children

Licensed Bar, Bbq, Fish & Chips, Cheese, Biscuits & Champagne, Lucky Patron Gate Prize, Lucky Member Prize

Gates open 12 noon, Courtesy Bus

Saturday, June 9, 2012

The Henry Lawson Heritage Festival

One of Australia’s most famous poets, Henry Lawson is framed by images of the town of Gulgong on the first Australian ten dollar note.

Gulgong is also referenced in much of Lawson’s poetry, in particular ‘Joe Wilson and his mates’ so it is fitting that Gulgong holds a festival in celebration of Henry Lawson’s life and literary works.

Approximately 300kms north-west of Sydney, New South Wales, Gulgong is one of the towns in which Lawson resided as a child. Now, more than a century on, lovers of writing and poetry can celebrate the town and Henry Lawson.

The Henry Lawson Heritage Festival takes place on the June long weekend, and is sure to have something of interest for everyone.

The festival starts off with the ‘Henry Lawson Photography Competition and Exhibition Official Opening Ceremony’, and goes on to incorporate fun and excitement for the whole family - including talks about Lawson’s work, local produce tasting and sales, street markets, bush dancing, old-style children’s games, live entertainment, poetry workshops and guided tours of historic sites and buildings.

Highlights of the festival include; the Henry Lawson Heritage Parade (including marching band, vintage vehicles and festival floats), the Henry Lawson Society Theatre Restaurant and Annual Literary Award Presentations (3 course dinner with entertainment)  and the Country Race Meeting (six races including the Gulgong Gold Cup!)

So, for a weekend full of family fun and culture or to broaden your knowledge of Henry Lawson and his literary works, make sure you come along to Gulgong. Who knows? You could meet the next famous Australian in the making!

Friday, June 10, 2011

Katherine - Barunga Festival

Forget about waiting every 4 years for the Olympics to shape up, just head to Burunga around June for a real sporting experience.  Around 20 indigenous community groups from across the Top End gather to compete, celebrate and catch up.

The groups test compete in traditional sports including spear throwing, fire lighting, playing the didgeridoo. After the traditional competitions are decided, the groups take part in more contemporary competitions. They play Australian Rules football and basketball and race against each other for athletic glory.

And you can experience it too. The festival's organisers have opened this celebration up to visitors, so you get to sample a diverse range of food, watch the sporting competitions and the traditional dances, and learn more about one of the world's oldest cultures.

Barunga Festival is one of Australia's longest running Aboriginal festivals, located four hours away from Darwin.

Held every year over the June long weekend with community people welcoming visitors from Friday until Monday afternoon for the alcohol and drug free event. 

The festival weekend is a unique opportunity to come and be part of a remote Aboriginal community, and share in the Jawoyn culture.

Over the weekend, visitors are invited to camp in the community, be part of dancing ceremonies, share traditional bush tucker, make their own didgeridu to take home, and enjoy the many cultural activities on offer.

Friday, June 21, 2013

Alice Spring Beanie Festival

The 4 day outback event -end kicks off with the opening of Beanie Central Alice Springs N.T, home to over 5000 beanies handmade with love from over 400 beanie makers around the globe, this is where the madness and mayhem of finding that special beanie just for you begins.

On Friday night we celebrate the beanie with a big family fun night, live entertainment, food stalls, and the long awaited announcement and show of the winners of the National Beanie Competition. Then we open the Gallery doors to show you the National Beanie Competion Exhibition in all its glory.

The week-end rolls on with Saturday, Sunday and Monday you can join in textile workshops, Indidgenous basket making workshops, try kangaroo tail, enjoy the homemade cakes at the teashop, childrens craft workshops, and catch up on all the beanies in the exhibition at the Alice Springs Beanie Festival N.T.

See more outback events

Friday, June 21, 2013

Croydon Poddy Dodgers Festival

When first settled in the 1880s Croydon was a large pastoral holding.

Following the discovery of gold in 1885, the town swelled to become a rich, booming, gold mining town and the 4th largest town in Queensland but returned to its pastoral beginnings when gold became scarce by 1926.

To celebrate Croydon’s pastoral heritage Croydon Rodeo & Camp draft Association Inc proudly (and with tongue-in-cheek) present a fun filled weekend each June with the Croydon Poddy Dodgers Festival.

Events Include:

• World Title Wild Cow Milking competition
• Mutton Busting (Kids rodeo on a sheep)
• Greasy Pig Chase
• Team Roping
• Steer Wrestling
• Stockman’s Challenge
• Poddy Dodging Challenge
• Kids Horse Sports Events
• Open Bull Ride
• Junior Bull Ride
• Bullock Ride
• Camp Oven Cook Competition
• Crosscut Saw Competition
• Poddy Ride
• Tug of War

The Sheep Auction and much more rounded out with Mechanical Bull Ride Competition, Themed Fancy Dress Dance and Live Music, Markets, Kids Lolly Drop and Street Parade make for an action packed fun weekend.

Over $10,000.00 in prize money (and a pig) are too be won.

Throw in Free Entry & Camping at the Rodeo Grounds all weekend and you have a hard-to-beat cracker of a weekend.

After the festival why not stay on for a few days and enjoy all that the area has to offer before either taking on the Savannah Way West towards the NT or East to Cairns on the next leg of your Gulf Savannah adventure.

Croydon offers a unique window into its history with the many National Trust and Heritage listed buildings that line the streets as well as being the eastern terminus of the “nowhere to nowhere” (Croydon to Normanton) service of the Gulflander train – a truly unique rail journey.

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Roma Turf Club Rugby Race Day

Combining two favourite Aussie sports - rugby and races, the Roma Rugby Race Day is held in June.

In an effort to co-operate rather than compete for attendance for the regions major sporting events, the Roma Turf Club and the Echidnas Rugby Union club annually combine resources to host the Rugby Race Day.

The day of football and horse-racing attracts a good crowd as supporters as both teams playing in the Western Downs competition turn up in force for the big afternoon which is always followed by some gas heating around the bar to ward off the winter chill and music for post-match dancing.

Friday, June 29, 2012

Kilmore Celtic Festival

Historic Kilmore is located just 60 km north of Melbourne on the Northern Highway (B75). Acknowledged as Victoria's oldest inland settled town. It was a stronghold of early Celtic settlers from Ireland, Scotland and Cornwall, and remains a strong Celtic area until this day.

The Kilmore Celtic Festival is our tribute to these early settlers and we would like to celebrate their influence on the area in a presentation of Celtic tradition, with the emphasis on the fun-filled music and dance which they have left for our enjoyment. One of the many great Celtic Festivals in Australia, it includes folk and Celtic music, markets, musical instrument workshops and dance.

We welcome you to Kilmore, to share with us the pleasure of these traditions in a spirit of friendship and good old-fashioned country hospitality. So, why not rug up and join with us for a truly Celtic winter festival. The festival occurs on the last Sunday of June, around many other folk festivals in Victoria.

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Bedourie Campdraft and Gymkhana

Join the local characters in Bedourie for a full weekend of outback events at the Bedourie Campdraft and Gymkhana. The heart stopping action will take place all day Saturday. Come along and see some of the outback's fine horsemanship over two days of events for the whole family. Food and refreshments available all weekend. Great music and entertainment continues long into the night on Friday and Saturday. Everybody is welcome to join in the fun!

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Duck Creek Picnic Races

GREEN RIVER 'heats up' Nyngan

On what proved to be a chilly winter's day in Nyngan for the Duck Creek Picnic Race Meeting, some hot music from new talent  pumping all of their favourites and even more heat eminating from a crowd of over 1300 cheering home winners and moshing on throughout the night, made for one of outback New South Wales 'scorching' new events.

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Warra Races

These little outback race meetings really give you the feel of true country hospitality and a sense of perhaps stepping back in time, when an event was an event, not some hyped up, marketed big city slicked performance. Dress code is up to you, whether it be jeans and t-shirt or full blown race wear, people are here to have a good day, the only time you will be judged is if you've entered fashions on the field.    

Like all great outback horse racing events, the steakburgers were something else and the beer kept flowing to help wash the dust down.

Saturday, July 6, 2013

Stamford Races and Community Fun Day

With 115 years of experience under there belt, the Stamford Races and Community Fun Day is sure to be a special event for the whole family.

The day includes a Stockman's Challenge, Fashions of the Field, Foot Races, Family entertainment, fun for the kids and of course the races themselves.

For those who would like to stay on, there is live entertainment during the evening.

FREE Camping and Complementary Breakfast on Sunday morning.

Saturday, July 6, 2013

Marree Australian Camel Cup

Visitors flock to Marree for the Australian Camel Cup held on the first Saturday of July each year at the Maree Race Course.

Being the home of the legendary Afghan Cameleers, visitors will experience the traditional dress, food and atmosphere as the descendants of these magnificent animals kick up their hooves.

There is 13 races on the day with live music, pony rides for the kids, donkey racs and heap of fun that will entertain all the family throughout the day.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

Windorah - Bronco Branding & Gymkhana

Windorah - Bronco Branding & Gymkhana

Put this weekend in July aside for a great time at the Windorah Bronco Branding and Gymkhana.

Saturday is the Gymkhana with events for both horse and bikes for all ages as well as adults.

Saturday night will have entertainment on the grounds.

Sunday is the Bronco Branding and stockman's challenge.

There will be camping available on the grounds,food stalls and bar facilities.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

Milparinka Gymkhana

The remote pastoral town of Milparinka about 300kms north of Broken Hill is known for a few things - its gold mining history, heritage buildings and hospitality to name a few, but all that is overshadowed by the Milparinka Gymkhana and Family Day.

Highlights of the day include: the Milparinka Hotel Cup horse races, mens and womens barrel races and "slice the melon". Best described as a cross between jousting and tent pegging but using a machette to slice a suspended paddy melon, this fun outback event has become a hit in the 60+ years that the gymkhana has been held.

There are dozens of outback events to keep you entertained and the kids as well; including toy library and non horse events.

Generous prize money is on offer over the day.

1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Ribbons for all events

Horse events Trophies: U17 - 1st, 2nd and 3rd

Open 1st, 2nd  and Non horse Events trophies for 1st place only                                        

Fully catered with a licenced bar (no byo) and live entertainment on Saturday night this fun day is not to be missed. When you drag yourself out of the swag on Sunday morning there will be a full cooked breakfast on offer to start you off on a couple (or few) days of exploring this fascinating part of Corner Country Outback NSW.

Friday, July 12, 2013

Winton QBOA Opal Festival

Winton QBOA Opal Festival

The Queensland Boulder Opal Association’s Winton Opal Festival brings together miners, buyers, retailers, exporters, jewellers and the public in a social atmosphere to trade, sell and admire Australia's national gemstone.

Program:

A variety of Queensland Boulder Opal will be on offer in all forms – rough, faced, cut and set into jewellery. The trading areas shall start in the Beer Garden of the North Gregory Hotel flowing into the car park where the tailgaters will be set up to do their trading.

Saturday morning also sees the Cobb Lane markets joining in on the trading with a variety of stalls.

A Boulder Opal Jewellery Design Competition will be held for the novice as well as the professional jeweller. A Dress Design Competition is to held again, in which the dress design has to be inspired by Opal. The exhibits in these competitions will be paraded and the winners announced at a Gala Dinner Dance held on the Saturday night as the grand finale of the Opal Festival.

The Boulder Opal Jewellery Design Competition categories:

1. Student/Novice: 1st prize $1,000 Any form of Jewellery up to a retail value of $2,500.

2. Professional: 1st prize $2,000 Any form of Jewellery – retail value is open ended.

The Boulder Opal Dress Design Competition will have two categories from which 10 finalists shall be chosen, and from these a 1st prize of $1,000 will be awarded.

Friday, July 13, 2012

Cloncurry Stockmans Challenge

One of Australia's great horse events, the Stockman's Challenge was the first of its kind in Australia.  Held Annually in July at the Cloncurry Showgrounds, this year is set to be better than ever with fierce competition, a record crowd and plenty of thrills and spills expected to entertain the crowds.

The Cloncurry Stockmans Challenge is regarded as one of the best judges of horse and rider and was formed 20 plus years ago in honour of Cloncurry local horseman and Melbourne Cup winner, Reg Brown, breeder of the famous Nonda Stockhorse. With a record number of entries expected this year, the competition is regarded by many as one of the toughest in the area.

Why the Cloncurry Stockmans Challenge is one of the best:

A quick glance at the long list of major draft winners that have performed at the Challenge over the years, proves that young horses do continue on after competing in this event –and some continue on to be great. There was a lot of resistance to the dry pattern when it was first introduced, yet at the Sydney Olympics Reining, which our pattern has facets of, was demonstrated to the world. Like racing, dressage, showjumping and three-day eventing, reining has given Australian horsemen the opportunity to compete in a truly global sport.

The Challenge has achieved something else: it put dignity back into Australian horsemanship. There is focus, there is professionalism – and there is pride. The youth of today have been the ones to really benefit – and the results are obvious.  Our event now includes the Stanbroke Stockman section included in the Stockman's Challenge for under 30 year old competitors.  This section of the event has doubled in nominations in the space of three years.

Horses have also shown an enormous benefit. Access to new natural training methods throughout the world has proven that force and brutality no longer work. There is a new emphasis on developing both an understanding and a relationship with the horses’ mind – and the results are now flowing back into the Challenge arena.

The Challenge has renewed a sense of pride in a town with remarkable history: Cloncurry is, after all, home to the Flying Doctor, the pedal radio, the legendary Kalkadoon people, Alexander Kennedy – the old cattleman who financed the very first flight of QANTAS – as well as proud mining and pastoral history. Thanks to the event, people in cities continue to recognise the spirit and pride of Outback Australians.

Saturday, July 13, 2013

Bedourie Camel Races

Part of the Western Queensland Camel Festival.

A slice of Camel racing history in outback Australia.

The Camel has come along way from the days of being used as a pack animal by the early Australian explorers in the late 1800's.

In the early 1900's camel racing in the Australian outback came in the form of picnic days.

As the event grew with popularity so did the prize money and the outback towns of Australia now reconize camel racing events and festivals as a major tourist draw card.

So come and join all the fun at the Bedourie Camel Races.

The day will consist of Camel Racing and novelty events that cater for all the family with fantastic prizes up for grabs.

We may even throw in a "Wood Chopping" event if we can round up some volunteers. The festival caters for all with fantastic prizes up for grabs.

Come and enjoy the great food, bar, music and dancing at the Bedourie race track

Sky Channel, Bookmaker Facilities, Southern Races and Race Commentary will be available all day at the track.

And yes....there is FREE camping at the track!

Winton Camel Races         Boulia Camel Races

Saturday, July 20, 2013

Boulia Camel Races

Part of the Western Queensland Camel Festival.

Its Camel Cup Time!

This must-see event at the Show Grounds in Boulia consists of three nights and two days packed with thrilling entertainment, including camel races. The most prominent races are the Quarter-Mile Flyer and the Camel Cup.

The event attracts people from all over the world and the town bursts at the seams with around 3000 people attending the weekend.

The racing weekend kicks off on the Friday evening with a twilight camel race, steer ride and a concert.

Saturday sees the start of the camel race heats to determine which camels will make it into the finals on Sunday to win the silver and gold cups. All throughout the day there is track entertainment of the fun family type, with foot races and other comic events. 

On the Saturday afternoon, there is a rush to the arena to see the Camel Tagging event which has been growing in  popularity over the years and is now one of the major attractions of the weekend.  Monster fireworks light up the night sky  before  another great concert to round off the day.

Sunday morning, tension is in the air for the running of the Boulia Cups, camels, jockeys, trainers and handlers are all hoping that this year will be the one they take home the trophies.

Throughout the weekend there is entertainment in the form of market stalls, childrens amusements, camel rides sky diving, belly dancers and much more. A catered kitchen and a bar operate within the specified hours.

So come along and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere that  is the Boulia Camel Races, you will be glad you did.

Bedourie Camel Races               Winton Camel Races

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Lightning Ridge Opal Festival

The famous outback-mining town of Lightning Ridge will celebrate local culture and character with its annual Opal Festival on  the last weekend in July. The Opal & Gem Expo will have a fantastic range of opal, jewellery, beads and gems from all mining fields and the OJDAA Trade Show will boast some of the world’s best black opal.

Social activities include the spectacular Opal Queen Ball on Saturday, Stallholders’ Wine and Cheese night, International Opal Jewellery Design Awards Opal Trade Show and parties and entertainment jam-packed into the program.

SHOWS &  EVENTS:

$2000 Christine Roussel Award for best carving

In honour of the late Christine Roussel’s inspiring contribution to the opal industry and the craft of opal carving, Michelle and Danny Hatcher are sponsoring a $2000 cash prize for a new award in the International Opal Jewellery Designs Awards Association (IOJDAA)  known as the ‘Christine Roussel Award’.

The Christine Roussel Award will be nominated by the IOJDAA judges. The award will be for the best overall carved piece which can be figurative, abstract, a loose carving or one set in jewellery. The only criteria is that the opal must have an undulated surface.

Michelle and Danny have generously committed to sponsoring this award for future IOJDAA’s. Each year’s winner will be engraved into a perpetual plaque creating an honour roll. When asked what inspired the award, Michelle said, “we wanted to create something that honoured her dedication to the industry and inspired others to continuing levels of creativity and excellence in opal carving.”  

Without a doubt, Christine was instrumental in putting opal carving on the map. Her two decades of experience combined with her passion for opals have seen her work with master jewellers and opal wholesalers to bring to life spectacular pieces. ”Christine had an intimate understanding of opals. She approached each piece with careful consideration to create striking carvings. But above all Christine was an incredibly kind and selfless person who gave her time and expertise to anyone that wanted to learn about opal carving,” Michelle said.

Since 2005, Christine tutored students in opal carving from Lightning Ridge Central School.  She understood that the industry would only continue to thrive if her skills and knowledge were passed on to the next generation. She also actively contributed to the community and the industry in so many other ways. She was on the Opal Advisory Board for over twenty years, the IOJDAA committee for eight years and the Lightning Ridge Swimming Pool Committee for twenty three years.

Christine’s skill as an opal carver has had her receive international recognition in the IOJDAA Awards with consecutive first place awards for both figurative and abstract professional carvings. She consistently raised the bar at each IOJDAA competition with her visionary pieces and beautiful craftsmanship, yet she always remained extremely humble with her accomplishments.

“We believe the Christine Roussel Award will be aspirational to our entrants when designing pieces. It crystallises the purpose of the IOJDAA Awards which is to create innovative freeform and undulating opal pieces,” said Lyn Carney, President of International Opal Jewellery Design Awards Association.
 

ALF  WHITE  NON  PROFESSIONAL  AWARD

DON’T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

As a further incentive this  year  we have a solid black opal mined in the 50’s from the private collection of Alf White.

Alf, who was one of the founders of the Opal Jewellery Design Awards Association passed away last November and his widow and daughter Sue have kindly donated this opal in memory of Alf who had a passion for the non professional jewelers category as he felt that the “Hobby   Jewellers”  were a huge source of untapped talent and were the backbone necessary for our industry to progress.

Click on the "download info sheet" for the 2012 Program of Events
 

Friday, July 26, 2013

Australian Festival of Chamber Music

Saturday, July 27, 2013

Quamby Rodeo

Quamby All Sports Association would like to welcome you to it’s Annual Rodeo held on the last weekend in July .  A true outback experience for everyone from the very young to the young at heart.  An speaking of hearts there will be plenty of heart stopping action plus thrills and spills aplenty !

All the usual rodeo events are on display with competitors of various abilities trying their hand at Bull Riding, Bronc Riding as well as timed events such as Steer Wrestling and the Barrel Race.

Quamby is not just about the grown up’s - free entry for children and free kids entertainment all day, plus junior events such as mutton busting and a poddy calf ride give the juniors a chance to don their spurs and chaps for some excitement of their very own.

With the kitchen and bar open all day there is no excuse to get hungry or thirsty and it’s your chance to taste some great home made food with fresh beef from the local stations.  After all the fun of the rodeo is over there is more to do with the famous night time auction with some seriously good items up for grabs, from art work to 4x4 accessories and sporting and outdoor equipment.  The party goes on late into the night with a disco in the dust.

From humble beginnings in 1997 the Quamby All Sports Association has gone from strength to strength with the annual family day and rodeo being the major event of the year.  The aim back in 1997 was to provide a fun and affordable family day out with any profits from the day being invested back into the local community. 

This is still the aim of the Quamby All Sports Association and we are proud to have been able to support some great local charities over the years.

In 2012 Quamby All Sports Association won the Cloncurry Shire Australia Day Community Event Of the Year award.  An honor which the whole committee were extremely pleased to receive

Roll out your swag, pitch your tent, or hook up your caravan because free camping is available for the weekend with hot food and hot showers available on Friday night, all day Saturday, and Sunday morning.

With professional rodeos in both Cloncurry and Mt Isa in the weeks following the Quamby rodeo, it’s the perfect way to get a laid back and fun introduction to the sport of rodeo, catch up with old mates, make new mates, have a laugh, have a beer, and above all else have fun with family and friends.

Saturday, July 27, 2013

Winton Camel Races

Part of the Western Queensland Camel Festival.

Holding the tradition at Winton Camel Races

Camel racing is a great tradition in the bush and the Winton races have something for everyone.

For one day jam packed with fun and entertainment including an 8 races program including the Winton Camel Cup, with gates opening at 10am till late.

This year we have a Motor Bike challenge with the 2009 wheel stand competition champion riding 1.1km on his back wheel; Ross Oakhill has set a high bench mark to beat!

Along with the Wheel Stand Challenge there will be Motor Bike Barrel Races and Bending Races with three age classes to enter in; 8 and under, 9 – 14 years and Opens.

Over $12,000 in cash and prizes to be won! Get ready for some rip roarin' one day only desert action.

Watch as these unpredictable yet magnificent ships of the desert battle their way down the dusty straight of the outback to the finishing line.

Bedourie Camel Races       Boulia Camel Races

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Advertise your Ballarat Event or Festival Here

Friday, August 2, 2013

Curry Merry Muster Festival

Each year, thousands make their way to Cloncurry for one of outback Australia's leading events.  The Ernest Henry Mining Curry Merry Muster Festival boasts a leading professional rodeo, Merry Muster Race Meeting, Mardi Gras, street parade and 3 day festival of family entertainment.

Steeped in history, the event was kick-off over 50 years ago in 1954.  Back in those days, the men and women who got together to start the first Merry Muster, would never of anticipated that this event would have ended up being the largest gathering in Cloncurry every year.

Merry Muster Program at a glance:

Merry Muster is now not just about rodeo. It is a celebration for the entire community.

With the reintroduction of the street party to kick start the whole event, it sees the greater part of the community come together for Mardi Gras street parade and festival. A time for the whole family to enjoy.

About the Rodeo:

The Curry Merry Muster Festival is now renowned as one of the leading professional Rodeo’s in Australia. The Merry Muster has developed in recent years to be the largest single payout rodeo in Australia.

The stock used have improved from brumbies and local stock in the early days to highly professional and talented string contracted rough stock. Our main contractors are Gill Brothers and Allen and Jenny Remfrey. The Merry Muster is affiliated with the Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA) and conforms to their guidelines to make the rodeo an event with some of the most professional standards for competitors, livestock, officials and most importantly spectators.

The Merry Muster the largest single payout rodeo in Australia because when a contestant wins an event at our rodeo, they will win more money for a single ride than at any other rodeo event in Australia.

START DECORATING YOUR FLOAT NOW FOR THE CURRY MERRY MUSTER FESTIVAL MARDI GRAS STREET PARADE

Street Parade

The iconic Street Parade has been apart of the “Merry Muster” for many years. The local community groups come together to showcase their themed floats or vehicle entries to the Cloncurry spectators!     

The procession will be formally led by a Police Escort & Fire Engine, then followed by the marching horses parading Sponsors flags and promoting the APRA Rodeo circuit. We take pride involving competitors within the parade as well, so look out for Australian Champions like Shane Kenny, Cherie O’Donoghue and Australia’s Rodeo Queen.

Procession to start 6pm Friday. Keep an eye out in Ramsay Street & Scarr Street, Cloncurry!

Bushmans Bash

The Bushmans Bash follows on from the Street Parade at the Cloncurry Recreational Showgrounds on King Street. There you will be entertained, wowed by a taste of Rodeo, fed by the numerous amounts of stalls held by the local community groups and organisations, and simply watered and our golden waterhole.

Awards will be given to the winners of the Street Parade early in the night followed by Rodeo action to start at 7pm. Featured events will include the Open Bull Ride and Open Saddle Bronc.

The Bushmans Bash is a free fun night for all. So gates on King Street will be open for the public and please be kind to donate when you see the volunteers going around for gold coin donations.

Teddy Bears Picnic                                                    

Created in 2011, the Teddy Bears Picnic helped children under 5 participate within the festival in a friendly way. Children are encouraged to dress their Teddies up in a Picnic outfit and compete against others for a prize within their age group. There are also activities such as a Bear Hunt, Honey Pot Poking and Face Painting.

Of course there are picnic goodies to be had, all of course generously donated by the Curry Merry Muster Festival. The Teddy Bears Picnic is a small but successful start to an amazing weekend, which starts at 9am, Mary Kathleen Park, McIlwraith St, Cloncurry.

Over $1500 in prizes up for offer! Celebrate this fantastic event and have fun creating your float. Afterwards street party with entertainement, jump zone, games for the kids, food, Bushman's Bash and lots more.

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Variety Club Bash

2012 XXXX Gold "Cotton and Cane" Variety Bash

Get away for 10 action-filled days with 500 of your closest mates as we take you from the cotton capital of Queensland and make our way north to Mackay, taking in the stunning Queensland outback along the way.

This expedition of a lifetime will begin in Dalby on Thursday 2nd August with a convoy of Bash and Official Vehicles prepared to commence this colourful adventure.

We will witness miles of smiles as we fundraise for children whose families and carers rely on Variety, the children's charity for assistance.

To book your place or for more information contact Variety Queensland via email or call the office. More info to come....

Friday, August 2, 2013

Tara Festival of Culture and Camel Races 2013

Tara Festival of Culture & Camel Races

Tara explodes with excitement with a three day festival of multi-cultural celebrations and Camel Racing program.  The festivities commence with a Spanish Fiesta at 6pm Friday, an all Spanish themed evening where you’re encouraged to participate including wearing your favourite Spanish costume.  Come along and share in the cuisine, cultural dance, beverage and socialise with the Spanish citizens.

Saturday and Sunday includes The Twine, The Armenians,, African Drummers, Turkish dancing, New Varangian Guard, a team challenge and more. Reunions of all types are gaining momentum at the festival, so grab a group together, head on out and you may even win a prize.

For a great affordable weekend, come along and share the unique and wonderful elements of diverse cultures. Established to celebrate the cultural divergence of the community, this biennial event draws over 6000 people from across Australia.

The local community is heavily involved in organising the festival and camel races, offering the best of country life with a multicultural twist.

Take advantage of the FREE camping and enjoy the non-stop entertainment celebrating with art, music, dance, cultural displays and cuisines for all to experience.

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Nyngan Ag Expo

The aim of the Nyngan Ag Expo is to inform and educate rural communities and to promote new concepts and products.

Experiences will include: Australian lifestyle, education, environmental, farm/station, flora and fauna

Over 231 exhibitors on display including agriculture, livestock, machinery, presentations by Shannon Lush, Investment & Industry NSW and the Livestock Heath & Pest Authority, the Aussie Country Catering Food and Wine Extravaganza, demonstrations by Country Energy and the Dubbo Wood Turning and Wood Craft Club, workshops by Wrapertoire, Central West Catchment Management Authority‟s incentive programs, ICPA Fashion Parade, family fun with Fizzics Education, Bogan Shire sandpit and face painting, the Shearing Museum, antique engines and more…

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Gemfest

Approximately 45km west of Emerald in Central Queensland is the region known as The Gemfields which includes the towns of Anakie, Sapphire and Rubyvale.

It is in this region that gems, such as the stunning sapphire are mined and fossicked.

Made of Aluminium Oxide and coloured by elements such as iron, titanium, or chromium, a Sapphire is a unique and beautiful gemstone which is commonly worn decoratively as jewellery.

The Gemfest – Festival of Gems is held at the Allen King Memorial Park in Anakie, in August each year, and is a celebration of the area’s precious and semi-precious stones, including sapphires, diamonds, pearls, zircons and opals.

The festival offers something for everyone; with gem displays and exhibitions as well as music and live performances from musicians, acrobats and comedians.

There are around 200 traders selling gems, jewellery and equipment supplies for gem enthusiasts.

Don’t miss the "Jewels of the Outback" exhibition featuring rare and exceptional sapphires- many exclusive to Gemfest.

To top it all off, there is even a dedicated children’s entertainment area and a fireworks display on the Saturday night!

Take the opportunity to fossick for gems or try your luck in the Silent Auction.

Pick up a prize or two with competitions, daily lucky gate draws and the Gemfest Raffle!

Stay locally, with many accommodation options ranging from camping to motel’s and bed‘n’ breakfasts.

Come along and join in the family fun and festivities at the Gemfest – Festival of Gems! Whether it is knowledge, happiness or gems, everyone will go home a little richer!

Friday, August 9, 2013

Nameless Jarndunmunha Festival

The annual Nameless Jarndunmunha Festival is a gala event usually held on the first weekend in August. The Festival includes sideshows, novelty games and races, art and craft exhibits and spectacular fireworks displays.

The whole town becomes involved in the event, by either making floats, putting up a stall or partaking in the King of the Mountain race.

The King of the Mountain Race is a race that tests any jogging enthusiast since it involves jogging to the top of Mount Nameless.

This outback Australia race attracts many participants from near and far .

A themed ball is also part of the festivities.

Mt Nameless, 1128 metres above sea level, is the highest accessible mountain by vehicle (four wheel drive only) in Western Australia.

It provides spectacular views of the Tom Price iron ore mine site and the township. For energetic people, there are two walk trails to the summit, providing breathtaking views every step of the way.

Why not take a week or two to experience some of the other highlights the area has to offer including the Kirijini N.P, Mount nameless and the stunning wild flower displays from July to October.

Friday, August 10, 2012

Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo

Isa Rodeo Celebrations

Located in Outback Queensland, Mount Isa hosts the largest and richest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere - The  Xstrata Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo!

Held annually on the second weekend of August the Xstrata Isa Rodeo is held at Buchanan Park, Mount Isa’s brand new multi-million dollar facility with a purpose built rectangular arena and time-event tunnel in line with those in the United States. A world class arena for a world class rodeo.

The event has come a long way since its conception and now offers a rodeo festival that attracts over 25,000 visitors to Mount Isa. Experience three days of non-stop rodeo action as the best of local and overseas competitors compete for prestige and prize money in excess of $200,000.00

Other festivities include:

Rodeo Ball – A night of glitz and glamour before the dust kicking begins. The Mount Isa Rotary Rodeo Queen Entrants' fundraising efforts throughout the year are rewarded when the Rodeo Queen and Rodeo Charity Queen are announced and crowned.

Best Dressed Premises- The rodeo spirit kicks off early with the whole community getting involved in the Best Dressed Premises Competition. At least 20 nominations are received each year to be in the running for the Best Dressed Business Premises, Best Window Display, Most Appropriately Dressed Staff, Best Dressed School and Best Dressed Non-Profit or Community Organisation.

Zonta Bush Poets Breakfast- Over a hot buffet breakfast, everyone is entertained by 4-5 poets, including some local talent as they recite their bush poetry. A good time and a few laughs are had by all each year.

Bull Pit - Experience additional rodeo action and dust kicking, with the action packed bull ride and bareback competition held in the Bull Pit arena. The Bull Pit is generally one of the more popular events during rodeo week..

The Mailman Express Sprint Horse Race - An event named after Wally Mailman, the Mailman Express is a 200 metre sprint from a running start that is open to non-thoroughbred horses and the winner takes all.

Mardi Gras Street Parade – Floats, fun and thousands of fans line the streets surrounding Buchanan Park with wall-to-wall people enjoying entertainment, dancing, carnival rides and cotton candy.

Rodeo Events, Live Entertainment, Sideshow Alley and much more!

So come and be a part of history and make your way out to 'The Rodeo Capital of Australia' for the quintessential Outback experience and the pinnacle rodeo event in Australia. 

Mount Isa Rodeo Programme of Events (see the website for total list of events and prices)

NB: Program of Events is subject to change without notice. 

"A project of the Rotary Clubs of Mount Isa"

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Louth Races

Racing in the village of Louth, situated on the banks of the Darling River 100km SW of Bourke and 132km NW of Cobar, dates back as far as 1880 when the Louth Christmas Races were held on the 27th December of that year. Featuring a two race program, the two mile open handicap with prize money of 60 sovereigns and a maiden plate over one and a quarter miles with prize money of 15 sovereigns.

The next documented races were in 1889 and were staged over two days with five races and a two mile hurdle event on the first day followed by an eight race program on the following day. The most successful starter was a horse named ‘Winnie’ who was placed first in three races, carrying a weight of ten stone ( her opponents were only carrying around eight stone).

These early race meetings may have provided inspiration for Henry Lawson's 'Louth on the Darling' in which he described Louth as a place that loved a drink, a punt and a party!

Not a lot has changed for Louth in that respect and they have a reputation for staging a great party - an annual race meeting that keeps the crowds coming back year after year... racegoers love the sheer isolation of Louth, the colourful bush characters and the experience of watching the horses thunder past the winning post in a cloud of dust.

These days the club stages a 7 race program, with prizemoney of $42,500 plus trophies and sashes. Sky Channel will be in operation for off-course and interstate punters and all the usual amenities such as betting fluctuation, bar, barbecue and afternoon tea will on course for the full utilization of patrons.

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Katherine Festival

As Katherine experienced growth in population industry and tourism the community was the potential to expand the Katherine Carnival into a regional festival of arts and culture. In 1991, the Fabulous Flying Fox Fesitval was founded by the Katherine Town Council's Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee, who still maintains its direction today.

The Flying Fox Art & Cultural Festival (now the Katherine Festival) is named after the Red and Black Flying Foxes who roost in the trees along the Katherine River during the day and takes to the skies every night in search of food.

The Festival has come to traditionally embrace community events. The community comes together to enjoy a wide variety of arts and entertainment over a period of ten days. The events have included Mayoral Debutante Ball, Katherine Prize Art and Craft Acquisition Awards, exhibitions, workshop activities, Aboriginal culture, Family Fun Day, unique cross cultural experience of the Chinese Dragon Boat Races on the Katherine Gorge in Nitimluk National Park, Flying Fox Walk and Talk,' Main Event' including markets, car show, and plenty of entertainment.

Friday, August 16, 2013

Clermont Gold and Coal Festival - Celebrating 150 years since the 1st discovery of gold in Clermont

Gold was 1st discovered in Clermont 150 years ago.

Each year hundreds rush to Clermont for the annual Gold and Coal fest event which sees locals and visitors compete in the lucrative Gold Detecting Competition, Gold Raffle and Gold Wheel. 

This combined treasure chest has been attracting punters to Clermont over the last 10 years, and the festival is now a 2 day event chocced full of activities to celebrate the unique culture and heritage of gold mining. The Clermont Gold Detectors Competition will be held on the Sunday.

Musicians, poets, school groups, Clermont's own Music Makers and others will provide ENTERTAINMENT right through the festival with MARKET STALLS including gold jewellery, nuggets and jems being sold in the market stalls. Food, and general market stalls will be there in good numbers again too. BUT THAT'S NOT ALL!!

It's Gold, Gold, Gold for Clermont!

During the Friday and Saturday you can win gold nuggets (valued at $50 each) on the  “gold wheel” (like a “ham wheel” only the prize is gold nuggets)

There are lucky spot prizes and second prize certificates provided by GoldFest's generous sponsors up for grabs throughout the weekend. 

Enjoy a serious case of gold fever with good food to enjoy, entertainment, market stalls and the chance to win gold nuggets and jewellery.

The Clermont GoldFest seeks to promote Clermont, its attractions and businesses with a special emphasis on our gold prospecting heritage. Local schools, professional and local musicians, bush poets and an annual detector competition all make it a great celebration.

The Clermont Gold Detector Competition, sponsored by Minelab and Coilteck Manufacturing, will award as first prize a MineLab Detector GPX5000 (rrp $6,595.) and other prizes.  All assemble at 8.00am at Centenary Park in Lime Street, near lagoon. Make sure you book your hire detectors early, and only up to 11 inch coil sizes are allowed.  All entry forms to be in by 8.30am.

Contact: Andrew White Clermont Gold Detectors for entries and info.

Saturday, August 17, 2013

Alice Springs - Henley-on-Todd Regatta

Held in the centre of the Australia outback at Alice Springs, it's the sort of event that can motivate the most mature, conservative business people into the roles of "Vikings" and "Pirates" crewing battle boats bristling with mortars and high pressure water cannons.

Join in, have fun, or just enjoy the hilarity from under the shade of gum trees on the edge of the dry Todd River bed, and help raise funds for charity, with major sponsor, ASSA ABLOY, the World’s Leading Lock Group!

$500 lucky draw competitor’s prize…. This is a unique outback event where anyone can take part and have the chance to win to the prize draw of $500 cash for all registered competitors who join in the events. But….You’ve gotta be in it to win it!

“The Territory’s longest running iconic outback event!

See more outback events

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Walgett Rodeo

Saddle up for the Walgett Rodeo! 2011 dates to be confirmed!

More and more people are flocking to Walgett for its annual Rodeo held on the third weekend in August each year. The Walgett Rodeo boasts an impressive range of equine events including explosive bull riding, spectacular steer wrestling, a Campdraft, Gymkhana, and for the kids a Junior Rodeo and Poddy Riding competition.

With an attractive prize pool, the Walgett Rodeo attracts some top class competitors from throughout Australia. The Walgett Rodeo is a great opportunity to experience the thrills and spills of an exciting outback event.

Expect to see the best of Australia’s horseman put through their paces with a number of exciting events including Saddle Bronc Riding, Bareback Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing, Rope & Tie, Team Roping, Ladies Breakaway Roping, Wild Horse Race and Buck Jump.

In the Campdraft you will see contestants demonstrate their superior riding ability in a predetermined pattern, and a combination of balance between horse and rider in a series of moves.

For the junior cowboys and girls – they get to show off their skill in the Junior Rodeo and Poddy Riding. These are fun events to watch as the kids get amongst the rodeo spirit and aim to tame their very own wild beasts.

The night promises to be full of action with the rodeo during the day and into the evening, then the band kicks off for a night of dancing and frivolity. There is a full Bar and you can ‘tuck into’ some good old country hospitality with a tasty BBQ.

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Stonehenge Bronco Branding

Stonehenge Bronco Branding

Once used to refer to an untrained horse or one that habitually bucks or was prone to unpredictable behaviour, the term ‘Bronco’ now generally refers to the modern rodeo bucking horse, which is a domestic animal specifically bred for its bucking ability and raised for the rodeo.

Stonehenge in Central West Queensland is a small town whose name originated from drovers who found the area and upon deciding it to be a safe crossing of the Thomson River, built a stone 'fortress' for the men to use as a camp. The 'fortress' eventually fell to ruins and consequently the town was named. Stonehenge is located approximately 1350kms north-west of Brisbane.

‘Bronco Branding’ is Australia’s traditional and unique method of branding stock in the bush, it has been practiced on most large stations throughout Australia. Bronco branding is now a competitive sport, first performed in Alice Springs in 1984, with Stonehenge holding the first Queensland ‘Bronco Branding’ event in August 1991.

Stonehenge continues to host a ‘Bronco Branding’ event in August of each year with a horsemanship school being conducted on the Thursday and Friday prior to the event. The weekend brings visitors from near and far and has a variety of events sure to entertain everyone, including – a gymkhana, stockman’s challenge, rodeo, team penning and bronco branding.  There is live entertainment on the Saturday night, food will be available from Friday afternoon and a bar operates throughout the weekend!

Whether you are in need of a new and unique experience or you are a horse lover, come along to Stonehenge and join in the excitement at the annual Bronco Branding event.

Friday, August 23, 2013

Dirranbandi Campdraft

The event includes a show a rodeo, cattle and sheep judging, pavillion displays, fashion parade and lots more. Make a day of it and bring the whole family

Friday, August 24, 2012

Camooweal Drovers Camp Festival

The annual Drovers Camp Festival Camooweal held on the fourth weekend of August every year, celebrates Australia’s outback heritage and the contribution of drovers to the development of the nation’s cattle industry.

Enjoy a real Australian weekend and meet genuine Australian Drovers and hear of their amazing lives on the road in the outback. The fun starts on Friday afternoon with a street parade, followed by a hilarious charity race and fund raising auction at the local pub. The night finishes with an old time ball in the town hall with lucky door prizes to be won!

The fun continues on Saturday and Sunday with lots of entertainment such as:

•   Live Entertainment - featuring various artists and music all weekend

•   Saturday Night Concert - Country music celebrities put on a concert on the big stage at the Drovers Camp. Previous years entertainers have been Tommy Maxwell, John Williamson, Ted Egan to name just a few 

•   Bronco Branding - this popular sport shows the age old skill of branding cattle although paint is used on the brands for the sport. 

•   Mail Race - a fast-paced obstacle course for a team of three with a cash bounty

•   Race Meeting - put on your best suit and frock for the one and only Country Classic

•   Talent Quest - from singing to playing the spoons, you’ll see it all at the drover’s Camp Talent Quest Competition

•   Bush Poetry - listen or enter your ballad or story in the Bush Poetry Competition to be in running for a Bronze Spur Award

•   Yarn with a Drover - enjoy traditional camp cooking and tales by an old drover

•   Art Competition & Exhibition - enter your masterpiece in one of five different categories for the chance of receiving cash prize

•   Photo Competition - enter your favourite photograph in one of six different categories and have it on display for all to see

•   Museum & Art Gallery - featuring artifacts from the droving era

•   Damper & Brownie Competition - open to everyone with a mouth watering recipe for damper and brownies

•   Whip Cracking Competition - a quick wrist, a sharp eye and good co-ordination is what it takes to make it in Camooweal’s Whip Cracking Competition

Saturday, August 25, 2012

Weipa BullRide

Gates open 4pm at the Weipa Touch Grounds

• Licensed Bar (No Eskies)
• Music Till Late
• Food Stalls
• Raffles
• Glow Products
• Lolly Drop
• Comedy Clown
• Novelty Events
• Junping Castle
• Lucky Door Prizes

Bull riding school prior to the event.

Ticket Prices to be advised.

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Windorah International Yabby Races

Windorah International Yabby Races....

Cherax destructor– more commonly known as the Yabby is an Australian freshwater crustacean, usually found in dams, rivers, channels and other waterways throughout Australia.  However, in August of each year, yabbies can be found in a more unusual place – on the track at the Windorah International Yabby Races.

1200kms west of Brisbane, Windorah is one of three towns that make up the ‘Barcoo Shire’ in Central Queensland. Windorah is colloquially known as ‘The Heart of the Channel Country’ - the perfect habitat for the Yabby.

Hundreds of people passing through Windorah on their way to the Birdsville Races are captivated and entertained by the Windorah International Yabby Races held on the Wednesday night prior to the big weekend event.

Kicking the night off at 7pm is the all famous The Barcoo Bolt followed closely by the Thompson Trot, The Kyabra Kanter. The last race of the night is the grand finally - The Cooper Cup.

Each of the 10 yabbies in every event is named and auctioned off prior to the race, with the funds from the night going back into the community and a great portion of all proceeds going to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The night comprises fun and entertainment for all with live music, food, and a bar operating throughout the night!

Come along and get involved in the Windorah International Yabby Races. It can’t be guaranteed that your yabby will crawl it’s way to first place, but it can be guaranteed that you’ll have a fun night that you’ll never forget!

Saturday, August 31, 2013

Millmerran Sheep Races

Ovis arise – more commonly known as Sheep, are generally domesticated for agricultural purposes such as their fleece, meat and milk.

However, in August of every year the Queensland town of Millmerran has a different use for the local livestock – The Millmerran Sheep Races.

Millmerran is located approximately 210kms west of Brisbane and 80kms south west of Toowoomba. The Millmerran Sheep Races is a major fundraiser for St. Josephs Primary School and justly, the Primary School plays host to the annual event which started in 2004.

The Millmerran Sheep Races offers something for the whole family with a full day of racing, live entertainment, Fashion on the Fields and even ‘Side Show Ally’ type rides and games for the kids, and the fun doesn’t stop there!

The ‘Calcutta Final’ is the last race of the day, but the entertainment rolls on into the late evening with live bands and competitions to join in.

There is a Bar and BBQ open all day with traditional wood fired pizza's for dinner and plenty of powered camping sites are available around the town.

So, whether it be; you and the family who need of a day filled with fun and enjoyment, a few mates who need to catch up or even some ladies that need an excuse to wear that new frock, everyone needs to be at the Millmerran Sheep Races. You might even win a bet or two!

Press Release:

Thanks to major sponsor ADL Equipment, August 2013 will see the 10th consecutive Millmerran Sheep Races cater for all tastes and all budgets.

Gates open at 11am and the six race program begins at 1pm with the calcutta finale at 4.30pm.

The Millmerran Sheep Races is a fun and high-spirited day held at the Millmerran Showgrounds, a collaboration of efforts by the St Joseph's Parents & Friends and wider community, hosting a day of musical entertainment and children’s activities open to the whole community. The Parents & Friends Association realise the expense of taking the family out for an occasion and are committed to making sure that every local family can attend the day if they wish to, despite the financial hardship they may be experiencing. With this in mind we do not charge an entry fee, allowing spectators to enjoy themselves without financial burden.

Children are entertained with a “side show alley” style activity area for the young ones, face painting and this year we have secured the very popular Rock Climbing Wall as well as the ever popular Bucking Bull. Children purchase an affordable armband which allows them access to the rides all day. We have found that if the children have fun then the parents will enjoy themselves even more.

Musical entertainment is another important part of our event, significantly enhancing the enjoyment of the day for all age groups. Last year we were delighted to bring to Millmerran the fantastic Brisbane band “Golden Child” backed by the extremely talented Millmerran band “CC & the Crusade”. 

Fashions of the field will be hotly contested with a large array of prizes so make sure you dress to impress our judges. You will also be entertained with local business "Maylee Boutique" showing off their exquisite garments in this year’s Fashion Parade. To top the day off there shall be wood fired pizzas served for dinner so you can dance till late.

Bring along swag, tent or caravan, hook up to one of the many powered sites, camp the night and join us for breakfast the next morning.

Saturday, September 1, 2012

Blackall Flower Show

Held 1st Saturday in September at the Blackall Cultural Centre.
Trophy's to be won at each section.

Entries available to show off your wonderful flowers and gardens potentials. Prizes to be won - over 80 categories (Blooms, Cookery, Art, Produce, Children’s and Student’s Section etc)

Stalls selling home grown produce, potplants, preserves, sweets and cakes - afternoon tea is also available

Entry to the show is FREE...Starts 1.30pm

Saturday, September 1, 2012

Jazz in the Scenic Rim

This year Jazz in the Scenic Rim will be held at Bungurgen Estate Vineyard.

A relaxing day in beautiful surroundings eating a wonderful lunch and listening to some fantastic music.

Friday, September 6, 2013

Birdsville Races

This famous outback town of Birdsville is the starting point for many people travelling into South Australia along the Birdsville Track - first developed in the 1880's as one of Australia's major stock routes.

Stories of stockmen who passed through Birdsville on this famous track are part of town legend.

Birdsville is best known for its famous Birdsville Pub and the annual outback horse race meeting - Birdsville Races and Birdsville Cup held on the first Saturday in September when the population grows from 100 odd to 6,000 in two days.The race track itself is on a claypan alongside the sand dunes just out of town and is one of four tracks in Queensland that run anti-clockwise.

Be part of the non-stop party at Australia's most famous outback race meeting, the Birdsville Races held August 31st to 1st September 2012 on the edge of the Simpson Desert. Enjoy 2 days of racing action and 3 nights of live entertainment, fashions on the field, Fred Brophy's boxing tent, a giant auction and much more.

This is desert thoroughbred racing at its best - with fun, fashion and folly.

There is limited accommodation available in Birdsville during race week; camping sites are available at the Birdsville Caravan Park or overflow camping with limited facilities is available along the banks of the Diamantina River.

Friday, September 6, 2013

Advertise your Derby Event or Festival here

Friday, September 6, 2013

Advertise your Launceston Event or Festival here

Contact us

Friday, September 7, 2012

Bedourie September Race Meet

Bedourie is the second race meeting of the famed Simpson Desert Racing Carnival providing great outback racing action. Enjoy an evening rodeo and live entertainment on Friday followed by a great day at the races on Saturday.

Visitors are welcome to join in the fun of a great race program with top betting facilities. Food and refreshments available all day till late. Keplar Street, Bedourie, Queensland 4829

Friday, September 7, 2012

Gundy Medical Muster

The Gundy Medical Muster is a conference (RACGP & ACRRM accredited) designed for GP’s, Health professionals, practice staff and medical students to network and engage in education with an interest in improving health outcomes in rural and remote areas.

Hosted by Goondiwindi Medical Centre together with the Darling Downs South West QLD Medicare Local the conference will be a unique forum for exchanging ideas and developing new skills with a rural focus.

The focus of this year’s event is “Food for Thought” with presentations from guest speakers on a number of topics including: food allergies and intolerances, obesity, diabetes, bariatric surgery, food and sleep and gastric balloons.

There will also be open forum sessions on the Saturday afternoon covering topics such as food allergies and anaphylaxis; diabetes, diet and sleep; and recognising eating disorders.

Renowned guest speakers include:

Dr Sheila Cook- Endocrinologist

Dr Daman Langguth- Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology

Dr Evan Willingham- Bariatric Surgeon

Dr Robyn Nagel

Dr Phillip Braslins

Partners and families are invited to attend the social events held as part of the Muster and there are also lots of activities for families as ‘Gourmet in Gundy’ food wine and music festival is held on the same weekend.

The Muster will be held at Goondiwindi Community Cultural Centre (cnr Russell & Short Streets, Goondiwindi)

The Planning Committee is pleased to invite companies and organisations to participate in the event as a valuable sponsor.

The event is an exciting opportunity for your organisation to access over 100 GPs and health professionals from all over Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Santos Food and Fire Fest

The Santos Food and Fire Fest, an exciting mix of multi-cultural cooking, fantastic entertainment and brilliant fire-art, is set to return to the Big Rig Parklands, Roma.

Roma was named after Lady Bowen, formerly Contessa Diamantina Roma, the wife of Queensland’s inaugural Governor, Sir George Bowen.

She was born on the Greek island of Zakynthos, and to commemorate this, a Mediterranean flavor will be added to the festival.

Cuisine from countries such as Philippines, Netherlands, South Africa and Mongolia will be complimented by wood-fired pizzas, traditional Aussie tucker and wineries.

The dining experience will be made complete by the striking backdrop of the colorful lanterns.

After their stunning display last year, LightnUp will return to create their own unique form of fire art. This culminating event of the festival will be complimented by fireworks and a delightful lantern parade. 

Locals will be able to contribute by participating in lantern making and fire art community workshops leading up to the event.

An upbeat performance of world music, enticing markets, miniature train rides and the chance to experience the Night

Show at the Big Rig will keep the whole family entertained.  

The 2013 Food and Fire Fest is an indulgence of all the senses and an evening to be savoured.

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Quilpie and District show and rodeo

This year the Quilpie Rodeo is being held in conjunction with the Annual Show. All the usual excitement of the sideshows, stalls, children’s entertainment, trade displays and pavilion exhibits throughout the day

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Cycle Queensland’s Pedal away from the everyday

Gayndah to Noosa - Citrus to Sea

Saturday 8 to Sunday 16 September 2012

Pedal away from the everyday on Cycle Queensland 2012. This two-wheel adventure holiday will take you through citrus fruit groves along some of Queensland's most spectacular coastline, and gives you the chance to meet some of Hervey Bay's world famous whales.

The 9 day challenge will take in some of Queensland’s most majestic scenes.

If you have ever entertained the idea of participating in a cycling trek, this Cycle Queensland event is for you.

You don’t have to be super fit to participate, but obviously, having a moderate level of fitness and a willingness to succeed is a must.

Apart from fitness, fun and meeting new friends, all money raised goes to a good cause.

Cycle Queensland has been running the event for over 9 years, and each year, a number of charities benefit from the funds raised.

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Gourmet in Gundy

Gourmet in Gundy for 2012 is being held on the weekend of September 8/9th and has the theme of ‘Farm Fresh Feast’ aimed at promoting lifestyle in rural areas.

Wine, Food, Art & Music Festival is staged each year the second weekend in September.

Held on the beautiful banks of the MacIntyre River on the Qld border this is a great weekend to celebrate with friends.

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Cloncurry Sport of Kings Race Day

Cloncurry Sport of Kings Race Day

The Sport of Kings Race Day is an ideal opportunity for you to experience the real Outback. This must-see event at the Cloncurry Turf Club consists of 5 races.  The day is jam-packed with spectacular horse racing and live entertainment.  Punters will love the odds of this five race horse meet, with city and bush trainers heading to Cloncurry for a share in the race being the Sport of Kings Maiden worth $10000 to the winning horse connections.

The Sport of Kings Race Day is a feature event of the town’s calendar where Cloncurry heads to the track for the biggest day of the year. The event attracts people from all over the state and the town bursts at the seams with a few hundred people attending the event. 

Cloncurry races are a great day, with many social activities and excellent catering. However, horses, too, are important and trainers bring them great distances.

Cloncurry Race Club has been established since the early 1890’s, and is strongly supported by the local racing fraternity and regional horse trainers. The Race Day caters for the whole family with children’s playgrounds on course, lolly drops & entertainment for the kids. Ladies get involved by entering our Fashions of the Field competition by frocking up on the day.

General information:

There are full bar and catering facilities available and bookmakers for local and southern races. Local charities benefit from races as we offer the catering to a local organisation and another organisation supervise the gate entries for a donation in return so all in all the whole town benefits from the races in Cloncurry.

Racing in the Cloncurry district dates back to the 1880s; a horse called “Grenadier” is recorded as winning the 1884 Cloncurry Cup. The horse was owned by the Magistrate of the time, Richard Uhr, and the cup is on display at the Mary Kathleen Memorial Museum. The Cloncurry racetrack in the early 1900s was a very grand place - ’Randwick of the North’, according to some older people in the town! There was a large grandstand with a stairway up the middle, a roof and a tea room underneath and lawns surroundings. This grandstand was blown down in 1940 by a freak storm. Part of the stand remains and a bar now stands where the tearoom once was (refreshments have certainly got stronger!).

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Moree Golden Grain Cotton Festival

The Moree Lions Club is a volunteer service organisation, donating time and resources to the Moree community and numerous worthy organisations. It has members from various backgrounds and has about 30 members in it’s Moree Club. The Lions support many local events through the provision of their time and services to a broad cross section of the Moree community.

The Golden Grain Cotton Festival is the largest fundraising event for the club and comprises of events from during September which includes the Spider on the Gwydir Rodeo at the Moree Showgrounds and the Cottom Grain Festival Golf Day.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

National Bilby Day

“THE BILBY FESTIVAL”  Culminating in  NATIONAL BILBY DAY

These delightful furry Australians now have a special day of their own, NATIONAL BILBY DAY was officially launched in 2005 and the celebrations are held on the second Sunday of September annually. The National Bilby Day Celebration will be held in Charleville, South West Queensland and will capture the real bush and conservation flavour.

With a very exiting and interesting program for all young and young at heart to enjoy.

Save the Bilby Fund is running a competition for kids for National Bilby Day. The competition can be accessed via www.savethebilbyfund.org and by then clicking on the competition link.Schools can win live bilby visits and the kids can use this research activity to learn lots more about endangered species.

What can you do to help?

We invite you, your school, family and friends and local businesses to contribute $20 towards a panel of fence. Each donor will be officially recognised on-site at Currawinya National Park on a “Roll of Honour” permanently on display at the site and issued a personal certificate.

Donations will also be graciously received from larger corporate organisations wishing to make a larger financial commitment.

We also have a large range of Bilby merchandise that can be order by downloading the order form off our website www.savethebilbyfund.com and sent to the address supplied. The increasingly high profile of bilbies means more dollars for the fund. To date, The Save the Bilby Fund has raised over $800,000. Primarily donated by everyday Australians.

We need your support.

Now that we have become an incorporated entity, any costs that we can recover to put back into our wonderful bilbies will be critical to their survival and to the success of the fund. We want to keep you informed of what we are doing and how you can help participate in fantastic events such as the National Bilby Day.

This would not have been possible without all your support and I am convinced that the next generation will be most grateful.

For more information please contact:

Julie Anderson
'Save the Bilby Fund'
PO Box 155, Charleville,
Queensland, 4470

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Northampton Show Day

Northampton District Agricultural 96th Society Show Day

The beautiful little historic town of Northampton will celebrate the Northampton District Agricultural Society’s 96th show day on 14th September 2013.

Special effort has gone into this year’s show to reflect the milestone event.

Attractions and entertainment include:

• Show jumping
• Fashion parade
• Beaut ute comp,
• Old MacDonald’s farm
• Climbing wall
• Acrobatic plane
• Health tent
• Fireworks
• Mad cow ride, (like a bucking bull)
• Circus shenanigans (Spectacular circus fire show, juggling, plate spinning and other circus tricks)         
• Farmers competition (sack race, fill a bag of grain and sow the bag up and other fun stuff)
• An appearance by Koala Bill
• As well as all the regular assortment of food and novelty stalls, side show alley and show bags.

The Exhibition Hall will be well patronised with exhibitors vying for the coveted prize ribbons for:

• Home grown produce
• Flowers
• Floral art
• Pot plants
• Fancy work
• Art work
• Photography
• Crafts
• Literature
• Cooking and home brew sections.

The Wool Pavilion will display sheep, grain & fodder as well as the Judging of wool and the Poultry Shed is always popular with the kids.

For further information please use the contact details below.

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Charters Towers Heritage and Cultural Festival

If you’re looking for an outback festival stacked full of heritage displays, bush poetry, historical home tours, theatre restaurant, gold battery tours, including ghost tours if you’re game;  then the Charters Towers Heritage and Cultural Festival just might be for you!

The whole town of Charters Towers gets involved with a heritage race day, cattle drive, antique and vintage fair, quilting, blacksmith and leather work displays and so much more…

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival

This year’s Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom) Festival will be held at the Cowra Japanese Garden on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd September.

Sakura Matsuri is a wonderful time at Cowra’s premier tourism attraction.

It is a time when the natural beauty of spring and the simple elegance of traditional Japanese culture combine in the unique Australian setting of the Cowra Japanese Garden.

This year’s Sakura Matsuri Festival features a family fun day on Saturday 21st September. 

As the name suggests the family fun day is designed to interest visitors of all ages with a selection of traditional Japanese activities ranging from:

• Ikebana (flower arranging)
• Kite flying
• Bonsai demonstrations
• The fast moving excitement of a Sumo Wrestling tournament.

The fun day is followed by the annual Sakura Matsuri Dinner where guests can enjoy a relaxed time, entertained by both Australian and Japanese performers. The Annual Dinner is always very popular and bookings are essential to confirm your attendance.

Festival activities continue at the Japanese Garden on Sunday 22nd September.

A Service of Respect, held at the Australian and Japanese War Cemeteries, rounds out Sakura Matsuri activities. The Service of Respect commemorates the tragic beginnings of the Cowra – Japan relationship and celebrates the wonderful cooperation and reconciliation that has developed over the ensuing 66 years.

As usual large crowds are expected and it is strongly recommended that you secure accommodation for the Festival as soon as possible. 

For more information concerning this year’s Sakura Matsuri Festival or the Japanese Garden in general please contact the Garden. For details of accommodation available please contact the Cowra Visitor information Centre or see the accommodation section under Cowra.

PRESS RELEASE

2013 Sakura Matsuri – Cowra’s Cherry Blossom Festival promises to be a stunning event!

Sakura Matsuri is a wonderful time at Cowra’s premier tourism attraction.  It is a time when the natural beauty of spring and the simple elegance of traditional Japanese culture combine in the unique Australian setting of the Cowra Japanese Garden.

With a dedicated committee combining valued experienced members and some new additions with a fresh take on the festival, plans are already underway to make this year’s Sakura Matsuri an event to remember.

The festival will run from Wednesday 18th through to Sunday 22nd September and will include the favourite Children’s Days, Family Fun Day and evening Cocktail event on Saturday 21st and the traditional Service of Respect with a BBQ reception on Sunday 22nd.

The complete program for 2013 Sakura Matsuri will be finalised by July.  As usual, large crowds are expected and it is strongly recommended that accommodation for the festival is secured as soon as possible.  Booking forms will be distributed with the final program and again, bookings for the popular Cocktail evening are recommend to secure your ticket.

For any further information or media enquires please contact either Lawrance Ryan or Belinda Virgo on the contact details below

Saturday, September 22, 2012

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Race Round- Kalgoorlie Cup

XXXX Gold Kalgoorlie Cup - Saturday, September 22, 2012

 Hannan's Handicap - Wednesday, September 19, 2012

 Boulder Cup Sunday, September 16, 2012

Saturday, September 22, 2012

Lightning Ridge Police Bush Safari

The majesty of the outback is the time she affords you for contemplation, the splendour of the seasons and the spirit of fun and generosity.It is these qualities that a team of volunteers from Lightning Ridge in Outback NSW, have harnessed and shared with fellow adventurers and their community since 1990.

The Lightning Ridge Police Bush Safari enjoys an outstanding reputation for providing a unique and entertaining guided outback holiday adventure for city weary travellers to let down their hair and see new parts of remote Australia.

With adventures spanning two decades and the breadth of the nation, the committee has certainly made its mark on outback tourism.

More impressively though is the $300,000 the committee and their ‘holiday makers’ have donated directly to the remote opal mining community of Lightning Ridge by their participation in the Safari’s.

The major beneficiary of the Safari is the local State Emergency Service who is empowered, with cash, to purchase equipment and provide training and support to their volunteers. A variety of other local committees benefit with cash donations for small projects and in 2009 the Safari funded the construction of a much needed shade shelter at the local skate park.

We are travelling out to Birdsville then down the Birdsville Track with a stop off at Maree for Lake Eyre before heading back up the Strzelecki Track to Cameron's Corner then home via White Cliffs.

Your favourite Bush Safari evening entertainment will be on tap with activities that could include a trivia night, movies in the outback, theme nights, the unforgettable Talent Quest - or you can just have a yarn around the campfire at the end of each wonderful day!

The Safari will again be supported by local volunteers from the Ambulance, SES & Police Services as well as a mechanic who will all do their best to keep you safe and happy while enjoying the challenges of outback driving.

“If ever there was a year to enjoy these outback treasures, it is this year.

For Itinery go to the website below....

Click here for Registeration forms

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Winton Outback Festival

Pack in 5 days of outback fun with the Winton Outback Festival every second year (next festival 24th September 2013)

Pack your swag and head out west for 5 days of thrills, spills and rip roaring action at the Outback Festival in Winton Queensland.

Held every second year, this Winton festival delivers all the unique events synomous with the bush - a ute muster, truckies' reunion, derby, whip cracking, iron man and women challenges. 

There is no such thing as a spectator sport with tourists and locals encouraged to enter the Australian Dunny Derby, Outback Iron Man and Iron Woman events, a Ute Muster and the Whip Cracking Championships just to name a few.

You havent 'experienced' the outback until you've entered the Australian Dunny Derby, or witnessed the World Crayfish Derby Race Meeting, part of the line up of unique events at the Winton Outback Festival.

The other zany events which now include the Outback Iron Man and Outback Iron Woman events, True Blue Aussie Sports Competition, Bushman's Egg Throwing Competition, Outback Iron Kid Event,Country/Rock Music Spectacular, just to name a few of the 50 events conducted during the 5 days of festivities.

Outback Festival Program can be viewed on the Outback Festival website.

Entry to the Festival is mainly free of charge with the exception of nomination fees for events, entry into the Australian Dunny Derby/World Crayfish is a nominated fee and the festival includes 12 hours of varied entertainment including a Music Spectacular.

Accommodation for the festival:

To assist in the accommodation needs for the Outback Festival, staying in our ‘Tent City’ which will be located at ‘Snooza Paddy’s’ site which is conveniently located at St. Patrick’s School Oondooroo Street and situated in easy walking distance of the entertainment area.

Tent City is designed to take the hassle out of camping with modern tents already erected for patrons upon their arrival. Staff will be available on-site to assist patrons. These modern 2-3 person tents are carpeted, fully screened, have fold-up beds and mattresses and are fitted with an internal light. You only need to bring (sleeping bags, pillows etc.) towels, folding chairs & personal requirements.

For those requiring breakfast, this will be provided on site. Hot showers, toilets & communal tea/coffee making facilities are provided, and a large covered shade area to relax under after a big day’s entertainment. ‘Snooza Paddy’s’will be its own thriving community for the duration of the Outback Festival.

Tent City Bookings:

Click on the Outback Festival link below and follow directions to book directly with Tent City and go into the draw to win great prizes.

Get ready for the September 2013!

Thursday, September 27, 2012

2PK Parkes Country Music Festival

Get your boots on and head to the Parkes Country Music Festival this October Long Weekend

The  2PK Parkes Country Music Festival will take place once again in Parkes with a jam packed program of country music, competitions and busking. The outback event has grown to be a popular event on the country music calendar taking place over the whole October Long Weekend.

The event attracts visitors from all around the region to enjoy country music provided by guest artists and aspiring performers. The Parkes outback festival has offered opportunity to many performers who have gone on to attain acclaim in the country music industry of Australia.

The festival features an excellent line-up of professional and guest artists with days of live action, singing, dancing, busking and bush poetry - this Parkes Country Music Festival is set to be the biggest one yet.  This year's festival has more music, activities, food and fair dinkum fun than ever before!

Friday, September 28, 2012

Deni Ute Muster

Celebrating Australia's love of the ute, a good time, and all things Aussie,the 2012 Deniliquin Ute Muster and Play on the Plains Festival will be held on Friday, September 28th and Saturday, September 29th, 2012.

Held on the flattest natural open plains in the world in the Southern Riverina of NSW, the festival celebrates everything Australian.

The event started in 1999 when a group of community-minded people came up the idea of celebrating rural Australia and the humble Aussie ute. In its first year, more than 5000 people attended and set a new world record for the most number of utes gathered in the place (2839), and since then, the Festival has gone from strength to strength.

In 2011, the Festival set two Guinness World Records - most number of utes gathered in the one place at 10,152; and most number of people wearing blue singlets at 3500.

The Festival remains community-based and is run with a handful of staff and more than 1500 volunteers and proceeds go to local charities and organisations.
In 2012, two massive days of entertainment are planned with the headline acts performing two live concerts, a day stage of entertainment showcasing up and coming Australian music acts,a bull ride spectacular, the Australian National Circle Work Championships (TM), Holden Ute Barrel Race, Go To Wo (timed driving) competition, Show and Shine competitions.

The 2012 Deni Ute Muster is already shaping up to be another great event, both on stage and around the grounds, and one we are already getting excited about, we have already confirmed that Lee Kernaghan, John Williamson, The McClymonts and McAlister Kemp will be returning to the Essential Energy Stage to perform in 2012

This year’s theme colour – emerald green

Tickets: We are moving with the times and taking the event to e-ticketing which will allow patrons to buy their tickets online, print them out at home and bring them along to the Muster, which we feel will help people wanting to attend our festival to buy tickets, and also improve patron entry to the event. People who do not have access to the internet can still call Muster HQ to purchase tickets over the phone.

Festival passes include: All entertainment, camping onsite and every adult ticket also included a raffle ticket to win a new Holden Redline SS V-Seriers Ute valued at over $58,000.

Plenty of family activities to entertain all ages, more than 80 trade sites and on-site catering.
Set on the flattest natural plains on Earth, the site includes huge areas of camping to accommodate everything from the ute, to sedans, campervans, trailers and mobile homes, so if you don't have a ute, don't dispair.

Festival is held annually on the NSW Labour Day long weekend. Gates open at 6am on the Friday, day entertainment from 8am.  Tickets available from December.

The Deniliquin Ute Muster runs from Friday 28th September -Saturday 29th October 2012, located in Deniliquin, Southern Riverina, New South Wales.

Friday, September 28, 2012

Mildura Country Music Festival

Mildura Country Music Festival

When Australian country music fans talk of the festival "biggies", the Mildura Country Music Festival rates a mention alongside the Tamworth Country Music Festival and the Gympie Muster as one of the big three.

The major difference between the other two and the Mildura Country Music Festival that kicks off in September is that Mildura is Australia's biggest showcase of Independent entertainers.

What that means is a seemingly unending cast of highly talented professional country music artists who aren't signed to major record label deals.

The Independent factor gives Mildura a very different complexion, and it's a successful formula that has worked admirably over the past twenty-something years - more than 100 individual artists and groups will entertain over the 10-day period and the roster comprises many award winners including Golden Guitar finalists and Star Maker winners. But then, when you consider that the Independent artists make up probably 95 percent of performers in the country music industry, and the calibre and achievements of the artists is well documented, it strikes home that there is a huge well of talent out there.

A large proportion of the artists performing at Mildura in the past have highly successful recording and touring careers and big fan bases throughout Australia. With names like  Amber Lawrence, Dianna Corcoran, Victoria Baillie, Peter Horan, Reg Poole, Glenn Jones, Don Costa, Owen Blundell, Terry Gordon, Ted Egan, Tracy Killeen, Tracy Coster and Roland Storm, you can gather a truckload of chart hits, popular albums, and recording and songwriting awards.

What Mildura has steadily developed is something that draws thousands of fans on an annual pilgrimage that would make many non-music lovers scratch their heads in bewilderment. Often driving thousands of kilometres, the fans converge on this beautiful destination on the banks of the legendary Murray River for ten days of virtually non-stop country music, and the Mildura Festival has steadily built is own culture through the years. It's become the Mecca for the "empty-nesters" - the mature age couples whose kids have flown the coop, the ones who have the time to set out for two or three weeks holiday, and most importantly, those who have a deep love of the music. The wonderful part about Mildura in September is that not only is it country music heaven, it's also a great holiday destination.

The fans love the freedom of Mildura, and the value-added factor. For a start, virtually all the musical entertainment is free,  and the majority of the shows are multi-artist concerts. If you were paying, the value is certainly there, but in this free environment, everything's a bonus. The variety is amazing, with everything from high standard talent quests like the "Top of the State," or the Victorian Champions of Champions, to crowd-winners like the Girl's Night Out or the Rockabilly Show.

The venues, 20 in all, spread from the City Mall providing all-day entertainment at central city venues in Mildura to outlying locations like Wentworth, Merbein, Red Cliffs, Coomealla, Irymple, Buronga and Gol Gol. Every taste is catered for with Line Dancing, Country Rock, Bluegrass, Bush Ballads and daily Walk Ups for those not on the program.

The jewel in the crown for the past fifteen years has been the live concert and radio presentation of the Southern Stars - The Australian Independent Country Music Awards, presented by Neighbourhood Cable that recognise the achievements of the Independent recording artists during the past year, and this year's entries are sure to again endorse the status of the event. Many previous finalist and winners like Felicity Urquhart, Darren Coggan, Travis Sinclair, Drew McAlister and Carter & Carter have also won Golden Guitars,with some notable successes like 1999 Independent Award winner Brendon Walmsley, James Blundell and Dianna Corcoran being multiple Golden Guitars winners.

The culture of Mildura has built up on a real family factor, and that applies equally to the artists as well as the fans. There is a noticeable lack of urgency and panic during the festival, because if you miss a planned event on one day, you can usually catch up later in the week. The excitement factor is still there, but there's an element of control built in - and that's why the enjoyment factor is just as evident on day ten as the start. And the reason the artists enjoy it so much is that it's ten days of music, friendship and fun. Mildura is really a level playing field - no star billing, no support act tag, and certainly no room for egos.

For the fans it looks easy, but the organisation of an event the size and duration of the Mildura Festival encompasses a full 12 months of planning, and an awesome array of tasks from booking, accommodating and placing the 100 artists, arranging venue rosters, working with a multitude of local suppliers and with strong support from sponsors, traders, Local Councils, State Government and Local & State Tourism Authorities.

Underpinning the festival are local radio stations HOT FM 106.7 which broadcasts 19 hours of country music daily as part of its normal music format, and Festival Radio 92.3FM which broadcasts a 24 hours per day country music format during the Mildura festival, focussing on the music of artists appearing at the Festival.

So why do they (the organisers) drive themselves into the ground each year to make the Mildura Festival such a successful music and tourism event? Simple - they do it for the love of the music, they do it for the Independent Country Music artists, they do it for Mildura, and they do it for the fans. It's a terrific combination that has created one of Australia's most unique musical events.

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Advertise Ceduna's Event or Festival here

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Tibooburra Gymkhana, Bikehana and Rodeo

Dates for this event, usually held in October have not been confirmed for 2013

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Garnduwa Festival

The Garnduwa Festival has beed held each year since 1992 and has become the pre-eminent Indigenous festival of its type in WA if not Australia. Upwards of 5000 people attend over the 5 day period.

As part of the Garnduwa Festival, the remote communities football and athletics championship attracts up to 20 teams from remote communities throughout the Kimberley, Pilbara and Northern Territory. The football championships which run over 5 days consists of 2 divisions, one which is for participants from major communities and towns and the other for teams from smaller remote communities. In conjunction with football there will be an athletics competition which will be open to males and females of all ages. There will be sprints, relays and long distance events. The competition will provide athletics opportunities for those who would not normally have the opprtunity to participate in such events.

Garnduwa's philosophy is to maximise the Indigenous population's participation in meaningful and healthy lifestyle activities across the sport and recreation spectrum of programs.

Friday, October 5, 2012

Dingo Race Day and World Dingo Trap Throwing Competition.

Dingo Race Day and World Dingo Trap Throwing Competition

Action starts on the Friday night at the Dingo Rodeo Grounds with Bullarama commencing at 7pm.The Dingo race day and World Dingo Trap Throwing Competiton is held at the Dingo Racecourse on Saturday. The day will include a five race program. Gates open at 11.30 a.m. and kids are well catered for. Live bands will be playing late into the night.

Featured artists:

• Adam Brand
• Larry Cann
• Rob Black with the Rodeo Road Show

BBQ, Drinks, food and full bar facilities are available so please, no eskys.

Activities include:

• The World Dingo trap throwing competition is back with male and female sections.
• Bullarama at the Rodeo Grounds Friday night starting at 7pm (Entry Fee)
• Calcutta for the races will be held at Bullarama
• Fashions on the Field
• Rides for the kids
• Raffles

Free self-sufficient camping is available at the racetrack (toilet facilities only) or

Camping available at Rodeo Grounds with facilities (Showers/Power/Toilets) is $10.00 per site for the weekend and

Breakfast at the track on Sunday morning 730am till 900am

Tickets - Races & Concert: Adult $25, High School (under 18 yo) $10, under 13yo free

Profits from the day go to local clubs and charities and tickets can be purchased at the gate.

Come and join with the locals for a great family friendly weekend of fun at the Dingo Race Day and World Dingo Trap Throwing Competition.

Click here for the Dingo Race Day and Concert tickets

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Outback Trailblazer

A great excuse to explore south-west Queensland, this biannual 4WD adventure raises money for Angel Flight Australia, a charity that provides free non-emergency flights for health-related issues in The Outback.

Share the experience with 150 competitors as you battle through 15 challenges and 12 towns in seven days. It’s a great way to meet remote communities, as well as having a bit of friendly competition for $20,000 worth of prizes. 

For seven days and nights, teams of ´Outback Angels´ will explore bush trails, witness stunning scenery, discover amazing wildlife and cruise wonderous waterways ... all while competing in this action-packed 4WD adventure challenge.

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Beltana centenary celebrations

The Reunion

The first reunion was held in September of 1984. The population in the town at that time was indeed very small, however just over three hundred people attended and decided that they would like a reunion every two years. The idea was developed on a man’s dream-his love for the town and to bring people back to where they once lived, also bringing their children and grandchildren and all following generations to be able to go back through time and see how it used to be and how the town is now. His aim to keep this little town alive even if only for people to be able to visit and able to mix in with the locals.

This year the reunion is being held on Saturday the 6th and Sunday the 7th of October.

The reunion in 2012 will be quite a celebration being 100 years since Reverend John Flynn went to Beltana and began to put together his Mantle of Safety for South Australia. With Alf Traeger they achieved this goal. The rest is history and we now know it as the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Beltana has a magic touch about it as the quietness, the peace, the serenity, the mystique of the whole area just has to be seen to be believed. Some people say that it is like going back through time and they have fallen in love with Beltana returning to enjoy all of the above and more.

Everybody Welcome

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Coonamble Gold Cup

The Coonamble Gold Cup over 1600m offers $30,000 prize money and is certain to attract some of the best country milers in NSW.

As an added incentive for owners and trainers, the Coonamble Jockey Club has decided to work in conjunction with the highly successful Dubbo Cup Carnival to offer an attractive bonus.

Each race on Coonamble Cup Day carries a bonus of $1000 (split $500 to the trainer and $500 to the owners) that will be offered to the first three placegetters from any race on both days of the Dubbo carnival who wins at the Coonamble meeting.

In all there are 48 horses eligible for the bonus that has the potential to see an additional $8000 distributed to owners and trainers on the day.

Saturday, October 12, 2013

Birds of the Bush Festival

Usually observed with the naked eye or through binoculars; birdwatching, birding or twitching is the observation of birds as a recreational activity; and with around 10,000 living species of birds, it isn’t surprising that the activity of birdwatching is a popular hobby.

On the second weekend of October, the tiny town of Rankins Springs, New South Wales comes alive with birdwatchers, birders and twitchers alike for the Birds of the Bush Festival.

Rankins Springs and the surrounding area is home to many Australian Bird Species including the Glossy Black Cockatoo, Major Mitchell Cockatoo, Malleefowl, Gilbert's Whistler, Chestnut Quail Thrush, Shy Hylacola and the Painted Honeyeater. The area surrounding town offers several designated birdwatching sites; some with hides. The area also boasts an incredible abundance of native flora and fauna.

The weekend ‘Birds of the Bush Festival’ is a showcase of the delightful town and its surrounding area and is filled with fun and entertainment for all with; market stalls, rides and activities for children, a traditional campfire dinner under the stars and a competitive Art and Photography exhibition with prizes in all sections. There will be entertainment throughout the weekend including a nocturnal bird watching tour.

Whether you are a lover of birds, or just want a fun weekend to enjoy with the family, you can’t go past Rankins Springs Birds of the Bush Festival. Come along and join in the fun!

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Advertise Strahan's Event or Festival Here

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Saturday, October 20, 2012

Battle of the mines

Every mine in the district can compete in a round robin competition to have their name engraved on the shield if they win the grand final. The North Queensland Cowboys come every year to the Cloncurry Recreation Reserve to referee the games. Rotary provide a BBQ sausage sizzle breakfast and the Cowboys provide coaching. Over 100 young enthusiasts come from far and wide to gain the skills that can be taught at this clinic.

With the heavy involvement of mining in North West Queensland and the dependence of the RFDS to those involved in the industry for isolated medical services, talk was on the tip of everyone’s tongue how to assist raise much needed funds to assist the RFDS purchase and maintain modern and expensive medical equipment.

In 1996, born from this talk was “Battle of the Mines”.

The concept is to have every mine in the district compete in a round robin competition with the result being to have their name engraved on the shield if they were successful in winning the grand final on the day. The biggest winner the RFDS.

Since the very first carnival, the North Queensland Cowboys have played an integral part keeping the rules and judgement calls fair. They come every year to the Cloncurry Recreation Reserve to referee the games.

As the carnival is held in the later weeks of October when the temperature is already starting to warm up, the games consist of 15 minute halves. Teams can have up to 30 players and as the players are either not quite at their peak physical fitness, at the prime of the physical fitness or may have simply just let it slip by, an unlimited interchange is allowed. In saying this though, there is some first class and serious football played.

Each team pays a nomination fee which is donated to the RFDS. Over the past 10 years the “Battle of the Mines” has raised over $60,000 for the RFDS.

Every year a coaching clinic is held. Rotary provide a BBQ sausage sizzle breakfast and the Cowboys do the coaching. Over 100 young enthusiasts com from far and wide (Richmond, Camooweal, Normanton, Burketown, Dajarra, Boulia and of course Cloncurry) to gain the skills that can be taught at this clinic. This is considered on of the major events on the youth’s Calender.

Outbacknow proudly supports the communities of the Australian Outback

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Castlemaine Sheep Dog Trials

Castlemaine Sheep Dog Trials include:

• Sheep Novice, Open & Improvers
• Start approx. 8.30am each day
• Conclude approx. 5.30pm each day
• BBQ and Refreshments all weekend
• Gate: Adults $3, children free

Enjoy a fun day, BBQ refreshments available.

Monday, October 22, 2012

Warwick Rodeo and Campdraft

On the last full weekend of October every year, the nation’s top rodeo riders and the best broncs and bucking bulls gather for the Warwick Rodeo – known far and wide as “Australia’s Most Famous”.

The seven day program of events keep the competitors and crowds coming back each year, with plenty of prize money for competitors and plenty of action for spectators.

Campdrafting will commence on Monday and main Rodeo Events will commence on Friday evening.

There will be action aplenty at the Warwick Rodeo and live entertainment at the bar until late on Friday and Saturday nights.

Great prizes for each category winner.  Also Horsemanship for each category and Miss Personality and Miss Appearance in older age categories.  There is also an Overall Fundraiser (taken from all categories).

A comprehensive program  including competitions will be released at a later date.

Friday, October 25, 2013

Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic

Friday October 25 - Sunday October 27 2013

Fishing is just the beginning!

The most family friendly and richest freshwater fishing event in Queensland is back once again with three days of non-stop action!

Located and hosted at picturesque Lake Moondarra, 15 kilometres North of Mount Isa the annual Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic promises a weekend jam packed with fun and excitement for all tastes and age groups.

Hosted by the Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group the Fishing Classic raises funds for the Mount Isa Fish Stocking Group.

The activities of the 2013 Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic commence with the official start of fishing action at 6pm Friday.

The weekend wraps up on Sunday with the awards presentation complete with special guest appearances, great food, bar facilities and entertainment.

Packed into the three days the 2013 Fishing Classic will showcase special guests, a record prize pool including a whopping $50,000 up for grabs for the lucky angler who snags the Mount Isa Water Board tagged Barra, over 30 prize categories and all the much loved favourites such as:

• A Fireworks Spectacular
• The Mount Isa Chamber of Commerce Dragon Boat Regatta
• Champion Kayak/Canoe Angler
• Beach volleyball competition
• Yabby races
• Casting competitions
• Live bands
• Activities for the kids, including jumping castles
• Trade exhibits
• Shuttle services
• Camping
• Food, drink and bar facilities
• And much, much more.....

NOMINATIONS, CATEGORIES & PRIZES

Nomination forms will be available online and in person at supporting businesses from August and at the event from 12 noon Friday.

Nominations are available for $30.00 adults and $10.00 juniors (15-years-old and under).

The categories for this year's event are:

• Junior Male & Female Secret Weight Winner & Runner Up
• Senior Male & Female Secret Weight Winner & Runner Up
• Mystery Weight Archer Fish
• Mystery Weight Barra
• Mystery Weight Catfish
• Mystery Weight Longtom
• Mystery Weight Sleepy Cod
• Mystery Weight Sooty Grunter
• Junior & Senior Overall Mystery Weights
• Heaviest Archer Fish Heaviest Catfish
• Heaviest Longtom
• Heaviest Sleepy Cod
• Heaviest Sooty Grunter & Runner up
• Heaviest Barra & Runner up
• Heaviest Perch (Junior only)
• Champion Junior Yabby Catcher
• Family Prize
• Champion Junior & Senior Anglers
• Lucky Junior & Senior Nominations
• Champion Team

Prizes include $50,000 Mount Isa Water Board Tagged Barra plus thousands of dollars in Prizes, Trophies and Cash up for grabs.

GETTING HERE

The 2013 Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic will be held at Black Rock, Lake Moondarra, located 15 kilometres North of Mount Isa.

Mount Isa is located 200 kilometres from the Northern Territory border and 1,829 kilometres from Queensland's capital, Brisbane. The nearest major city, Townsville, can be found 883 kilometres from city.

It is accessed by direct flights from Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns, Darwin and the Gold Coast.

Mount Isa as undergone a transformation in recent years. Once know as being a rough and ready mining town, it now boasts a metropolitan feel with trendy bars, coffee houses and boutique shops. The small town community spirit lives on through a force of dedicated locals who organize events such as the famous Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic and Isa Rodeo.

ACCOMMODATION

Mount Isa has a wide variety of accommodation available ranging from 4 and a half star Hotels to motels, caravan parks and backpacker hostels.

During the competition overnight camping is permitted within specific areas of Lake Moondarra.

For more information, event details or nomination forms you can visit us at the website below

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Broken Hill Silver City Cup

Explorer Charles Sturt referred to a ‘broken hill’ in his diary, when describing and naming the Barrier Ranges in 1844.

This ‘broken hill’ was home to a large silver-lead-zinc orebody, and although, due to mining, the ‘broken hill’ referred to in the diary no longer exists, the mining town of Broken Hill is very much still alive.

Broken Hill is colloquially referred to as ‘The Silver City’, evidently due to the mining of silver from the local mineral deposit.

The Silver City Cup will be held at the Broken Hill Racecourse on the 26th of October 2013.

The $15,000 ‘Silver City Cup’ leads a full day of racing, together with the 5 supporting races offer $50,000 total winnings.

The day is to be filled with fun for all ages, including pony rides, face painting and a jumping castle for the kids and a public bar, food stalls, bookies, on-course tote and coverage of other major interstate races for the ‘grown-ups’.

A fully catered Silver City Cup marquee - located in prime position at the edge of the track for a bird’s eye view of the races – is expected to be a welcome addition for racegoers.

There is ‘Fashions on the Field’ with prizes for Most Elegant Silver City Lady, the Trendiest Chick and Country Casual Male, as well as Best Dressed Girl and Boy.

Seating for the event is plentiful, with groups of 10 or more being able to purchase picnic sites with a table, chairs and an esky of ice and Club Members having access to the Grandstand and Members Bar.

Club members are also entitled to a free race book, members badge and entry into the members prize draw!

For a memorable day, filled with friends, family, fun for everyone and maybe even a prize or two, come on down to the Silver City Cup in Broken Hill!

For more information visit the website and follow the links and check out the Related Articles section to the right of this page.

Friday, October 26, 2012

Festival Of The Miners Ghost

Cobar, is a vibrant, prosperous and clean mining town with a proud history that owes its very existence to The Great Cobar Mine. The Great Cobar Heritage and Visitor Centre occupy the original mine offices building, your first stop when visit Cobar. Spend a couple of hours here soaking up the mining and pastoral history before looking over the original opencut mine.

Then, celebrate the culture and character of Cobar's annual Festival of the Miners Ghost.

The 2012 festival of the Miner’s Ghost will celebrate the 13th year, and while there were some initial fears that the festival may not happen in 2012, the Festival program will be as full and as enjoyable as past years. Some previous activities will be missing this year, but there are a number of new activities for people to enjoy.

The week will commence on Tuesday 23rd October at 6.00pm with the opening of the Cobar Arts Council and local Schools Art Exhibition. Friday night the Youth Centre will be showing a movie in Drummond Park.

Saturday the Markets in the Youthie will be well supported with a record number of stalls operating and as part of this years markets Browns will be operating a number of carnival rides in Drummond Park, also operating from Drummond Park will be Trike Rides, excitement on three wheels.

On Saturday night the whole family will have the opportunity to sit back in Drummond Park and listen to a number of  Local Bands, BBQ , Dagwood Dogs and Cold Drinks will be available. Brown’s carnival rides will still be operating. As the night closes in the Fireworks will explode over the Open Cut.

Sunday will host the now very famous Police Charity Golf Day and if anyone would like to hear some more music the Music Club will be playing at the Railway Station from 2.00pm

The event is a highlight of the Cobar events calender and promises to be another fun filled session this year.

After the Festival why not stay on for a few days to enjoy all this town has to offer - heritage walks and self-drive tours will reward you. Fort Hill Drive; a lookout over town and a working mine, Mt Grenfell, a significant aboriginal art site or some of the rugged landscapes surrounding town. Cobar will surprise you.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Lake Hume Fishing Classic

Come celebrate our 10th Anniversary in 2013

This year's classic promises to be bigger and better with great prizes on offer in 4 categories for both senior and junior entrants, something to entertain the whole family and every one who entering the classic has a chance to win a prize. 6 species of fish call Lake Hume home. They are Yellow Belly or Golden Perch, Murray Cod, Redfin or English Perch, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout and European Carp, something for everyone.

Entry fee includes meals on Saturday evening and Sunday lunch and entry into the major prize draw and lucky door prize draws.. Bar facilities are available over the weekend.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Murgon Music Muster

MURGON MUSIC MUSTER

31st Oct -3rd Nov 2013 - proudly presented by the Rotary Club of Murgon.

Country music’s faithful following will soon be heading to Murgon in Queensland’s South Burnett to enjoy this year’s line-up of talent at the annual Murgon Music Muster to be held on the first weekend in November.

Starting Thursday evening the entertainment continues right through till Sunday afternoon with Poets Breakfast on Friday & Saturday morning.

Last year an impressive line-up of singers, songwriters and recording artists included: Lindsay Butler, Buddy Thomson, Kevin Nolan, Jeff Gibson, Lex K, Stuart Watson, Clyde Cameron, Paul Ensby, Graham Rodger, John Colville, Primrose Henderson, Lynne Bennett, Gordon Larkin, Merv and Chris Webster, Rod Bryant, Ged and Trudy Hintz, Chris Callahgan, Tom McIvor, Laura Downing, Natalie Fenton, Merv Maltman, Alan Luscombe, Ted Thompson, Col Edmonds and poet John Major. 

The Murgon Showgrounds can accommodate a multitude of caravans in comfort with plenty of room to spread out (some powered sites) and all entertainment is under cover next door at the PCYC Complex.

There are 2 other Caravan Parks in town, Yallakool Caravan Park at the Bjelke Petersen Dam /Lake Barambah (also a popular fishing spot) as well as several motels, hotels and a B&B

Licensed bar and full catering is supplied including the dining room with home cooked meals

Enjoy vintage electric fence, Charcoal fired engine, Working Draught Horses and many other displays.

Pursers Coaches will again offer the very popular local tours of Murgon and the surrounding area including Boat Mountain, Cherbourg and Moffatdale wine region.

After the Muster why not stay on for a few days and enjoy a visit to the local Queensland Dairy and Heritage Museum, some of our award winning Wineries, The Ration Shed at Cherbourg or to enjoy the leisurely surrounds of Bjelke-Petersen Dam.

Click on the download infor sheet below for more information.
 

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Gascoyne River Dash

It is an awesome challenge across some of the harshest and remote country in Australia. Situated between the seaside town of Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction WA - the desert by the sea.

The Dash is a motorsport event that pits car against car and bike against bike and then the quickest of each against each other to determine who the King of the River is.

Kickstarters is in memory of local identity Neville Brandstater who tragically drowned in the Lyndon River in 1995.

Gascoyne is a mighty river of sand where a lot of the race is conducted.

Dash refers to the first races which were boat events down the flooded Gascoyne River. Unfortunately the Gascoyne rarely flows so move over boats and come in cars and bikes.

Comparison has been made between the Dash and the Finke Desert Race. Both races are a true test of machine and competitor, both are races that promote the unique Australian outback. The Dash is a point to point race over a hugely varied landscape, a cross country course extensively consisting of natural desert and outback terrain. In excess of 500km over two days the Dash is long and tough; it is an ultimate challenge.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Alice Springs Turf Club Melbourne Cup Meeting

The Alice Springs Turf Club, just 7km from the Alice Springs CBD, is Australia's most centrally situated thoroughbred racing club.

Voted one of Australia's most scenic and picturesque racecourses, located at the foothills of the beautiful MacDonnell Ranges, it boasts views that will leave you inspired.

Pioneer Park Race Course provides top-class facilities for members and the general public alike including the Princess Amelia Room, The Guineas Bar with Kiosk, a Members Lounge with outside balcony and the Dave Fogarty Pavilion.

The Alice Springs Turf Club hosts great entertainment for the younger race-goers including a new state of the art playground and a recently purchased jumping castle - then there's the horse racing!

With racing 34 days of the year, which is broadcasted internationally on Sky Racing Channel, the Alice Springs Turf Club's popularity is increasing and there is always something for everyone to enjoy.

Come along on Melbourne Cup Day for a full race day program, entertainment, TAB and Bookmaker facilities, Sky Racing Channel, state of the art children’s playground with jumping castle and top-class facilities.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Charleville Cup

The famous outback town of Charleville will celebrate horse racing in style with its annual Charleville Cup Festival - part of the Matilda Highway Cup racing series. The Cup Carnival culminates with the running of the Charleville Cup on Tuesday (Melbourne Cup Day) and offers horse racing at its best.

The racecourse is complete with a full bar, food, bookmakers and Sky Channel available. This will be a great day for all the family.

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Cunnamulla Fella Festival & PBR Touring Pro Division Bull Ride

Experience the thrill & hospitality of the west with Festival fun & PBR Touring Pro Division Bull Ride in Cunnamulla. Cowboys, bull riders, shearers and stockmen will converge on the famous town of Cunnamulla in Western Queensland for one of the most diverse events in the state.

Feel the energy...

The programme is presented and sponsored by the Paroo Shire Council, the Cunnamulla Fella Festival - a bush ‘Iron Man’ competition – a test of strength, bush cunning and survival skills, Poetry Competition and the Cunnamulla Opal Buckle – the richest bull ride in Western Queensland.

Expect to see...

Some action packed rodeo entertainment and PBR bull riding as Australia’s best professional riders compete for the coveted Cunnamulla Opal Buckle. The Cunnamulla Fella Bull Ride is open to adults - over 18 years. The Cunnamulla Fella Challenge is a 2 person team challenge made up of 7 bush events, includes whip cracking, cross cut saw race, wool rollin', brace & bit, back to back and fencing frenzie. Markets, children's activities, workshops of traditional bush skills provide a variety of events. A special feature this year is Dancing Classrooms to present a culmination of two weeks dance workshops with school students on Saturday morning

Great family entertainment...

There are plenty of things to do with a jam-packed program of entertainment with country music, live entertainment and a carnival atmosphere. The ‘Fella Festival’ makes for a great family day out with plenty of activities for the kids.

Join the flock...

Each year, the event goes from strength to strength with tourists coming from NSW, Queensland and Victoria. It is a fun celebration of the cultural heritage of Cunnamulla and the Paroo Shire. The festival has become a highlight of the outback events calendar and this year, it will be bigger and better than ever.

Catch all the action live...

The Festival includes a Rodeo, entertainment and live music on Friday evening, with the exciting PBR Touring Pro Division  Bull Ride on Saturday evening, where professional bull riders will compete for the coveted Cunnamulla Fella Festival & PBR Touring Pro Division, Opal Buckle and Prize money; followed by the fireworks spectacular and more great music.

Festival weekend passes will be available - check out the CFF website below

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Warrumbungle Crooked Mountain Concert

The breathtaking Warrumbungle National Park is the backdrop for this very special outdoor event in November. Come along and get ready to be entertained by the fabulous Diesel, supported by Rob Binks, Jess Holland and the Streamliners. Bring your own chairs or picnic rug…sample some of the delicious regional food and wine on offer from stalls operating throughout the evening. Don’t forget your dancing shoes!

The concert will commence late afternoon with singer/song writer Rob Binks and her orginal folk sound and a local Mudgee rock/country solo artist Jess Holland, followed by a traditional Gamilaroi Welcome to Country. The evening program will commence with well known Gunnedah rock/country band the Streamliners back by popular demand, who will get the crowd dancing with their popular, energetic rock sound.

Our headline artist this year will be DIESEL. Since becoming a solo entity, Diesel has released a string of gold and platinum albums and earned a swag of ARIA Awards (including Best Male). And after 25 years, Diesel has produced an album, ‘Under The Influence’, that defies all preconceptions.

Concert goers are reminded they should bring their own seating, warm clothes as it does cool off at night and a torch is always useful at the end of the evening as you walk back to your car. Buses will run from Coonabarabran and return, but bookings are essential. Why not get a group together and organise a bus to bring you to the Concert…no need for a designated driver!!

This is great family event! Children will be well entertained, with a designated supervised play-space...parents can leave their children with experienced Children’s entertainers from 5.00pm and then settle in to enjoy their evening knowing their kids are safe and in sight.

While our concert goers are welcome to bring a picnic tea with them...we do encourage them to taste the delicious treats from our food and wine stalls.

With great food, wine and coffee, awesome entertainment and the best outdoor concert venue you’ll ever get to…why would you want to go to any other concert?!

With such fabulous performers tickets will go fast so get in early to avoid disappointment! Entry to the Warrumbungle Crooked Mountain Concert is by pre-purchased ticket only…order your ticket by completing this ticket order form and faxing it to the Warrumbungle National Park Visitor Centre on the below number.

ABOUT THE CROOKED MOUNTAIN CONCERT:

The concept of an outdoor concert was initiated in 2005 with Sirocco and DidjeriduDingo to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Warrumbungles as a national park and since then has attracted performers like James Morrison, Stringmansassy, Emma Pask, Vince Jones, James Reyne, Kate Ceberano and Jon English Ian Moss, Wes Carr and Joe Camilleri. In the entertainment world it has become a must do event.

The Coonabarabran Area office of NPWS is appreciative of the support and sponsorship provided by its partners in this venture –The VRA, Warrumbungle Shire Council, ABC Western, ABC New England North West and Essential Energy.

The Concert has always been a great evening out for families and is a great chance to highlight the magnificent beauty of the Warrumbungle National Park.

YOU NEED TO PRE-PURCHASE ALL TICKETS:

Tickets for this special evening have been priced to encourage families and groups and are selling very fast, due to the quality line up ticket prices have increase slightly…but are still extremely reasonable! Ticket numbers are limited to ensure that we are able to provide the infrastructure required, and there is minimal environmental impact on the National Park.

Book Your Tickets:

Order your ticket by completing the ticket order form and faxing it to the Warrumbungle National Park Visitor Centre. 

For Tickets: Download the below info sheet or  click here

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Advertise your Devonport Event or Festival here

Contact us

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Roma Cup

The XXXX Gold Roma Cup - Roma Turf Club

Friday Night: from 6.30PM

The Roma Cup Calcutta and Cocktail Party will be held at Roma's Explorers Inn. Drinks  and finger food are available on arrival.  A Buffet Dinner will  also be available for guests. 

All Welcome!

RSVP please so we can make sure we have enough prawn twisters for you.

$40 for first hour of beer and wines, finger food and buffet dinner. Call 0413 749 874

Race Day: from 11AM

• Gate Admission:$25

• Inside Track:The best viewing position on the park, will be open to all punters this year. Open marquees and unreserved tables will offer access to Food, drinks, band, and bookies for all comers this year. Coming and going across the track will be controlled by security who will prevent guests being barreled by the thoroughbreds and angry jockeys.  Local boys, The Culprits will be shaking the marquees until late.

• Private Marquees: A select few marquee spaces have been booked for private functions Inside Track. Marquee clients will monitor these spaces and guests will be by their invitation only.

• Qantaslink/Black Toyota Fashions on the Field: The Fashion parade and judging will be held in a large marquee near the front gate. Registrations are open from noon at the marquee and close by 1.30pm with judging and finals running until approximately 3pm.

• Swag Central, as usual will be at the southern end of the Park. Throw out your swag, unzip the tonneau cover, pop up the tent wherever you like inside the Bassett Park camping area gates. Neighbours will be close so don't be revving your yellow Kingswood in the wee hours of the morning. Admission is $25 per vehicle for two nights (Friday and Saturday). Short stagger to the Turf Club entrance.

• Tent City-a step up from the back of the ute - 2-3 beds, carpeted floors, 12volt lights, village atmosphere. Cosy Canvas spaces. Showers and Toilets. See link below for bookings.

• Roma Cup buses will pick up and deliver back to accommodation houses throughout the raceday and after the party finishes in the early hours of Sunday morning.

• Members: All Roma Turf Club members will have access to the Members Bar, upstairs at Bassett Park and an invitation to the Roma Cup Luncheon. Membership for the new season is now available but thongs and singlets will not get you into the air-conditioning. Despite the rumours, cleavage won't work this year either.

• Post Race Party: The Rush Band will charge up in the Snake Pit as the sun sets and the event becomes suitable for over 18s only

• Recovery Breakfast will be on at the Park from 6am Sunday morning. The local constabulary will be breathalysing on the Warrego about then also.

Camping/Tent City                             

• Camping is available at Bassett Park, NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED, $25 per car for Friday and Saturday night. First in, best dressed. Showers and toilets, some powered sites available.

• TENT City:  This year, an area of Bassett Park will house some tents for two nights of accommodation (single, twin or triple). Beds, flooring, 12volt lighting, village atmosphere, Bookings can be made by clicking here

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Broome Mango Festival

 Every year in November as the clouds build up and the weather warms up, much of the North West slips into the grip of Mango Fever and celebrates with Broome’s Mango Festival. The festival let’s you celebrate the humble mango. Come and explore everything you ever wanted to know, taste and feel about this delicious tropical fruit.

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Nindigully Pig Races

Have you ever seen pigs fly???? Well if not you best come to the Nindigully Pub Pig Races on the last Saturday in November every year and watch our piggies fly!!!! A 6 race programme....gates open high noon....1st race 2pm gully time (can vary a little)....date 24th November....last race app 8pm with great live country music entertainers.

View video

All Piglets are treated humanely and with respect and do retire early to a great farm life on Noahs Farm...all 6 piggies are auctioned individually every race and named by winners for the race calling.....the winning pig is the 1st piggie in the milk bowl (they all share the milk at the finish)....it’s the obstacle course that makes for the laughs ...not hard nor too easy but they are in training for this event.....the winning piggie gets the whole prize pool and shares 50% with the Royal Flying Doctors and the other 50% with his generous owner (who won him at auction)...the owner also gets a priceless trophy to display on the mantelpiece at home....a lot of generous owners donate all or part of their winnings back to RFDS....it’s all in the spirit of the event.........

2012 is our 8th year of racing piglets and we hope with your help and attendance to make it bigger and better than ever.....last year saw nearly 600 people support us and we hope all return plus more....in the past 5 years Cow Wilson and friends ..The Nindigully Pub staff and people like you have helped rise over $14500 for RFDS....that’s a lot of money from a small town like Nindigully (our permanent population is only 9 people...yes 9)

FACILITIES...well we are in the bush (edge of the outback) but we really don’t miss out on much..550 kms east of Brisbane..200ks south Roma and 200 kms north of Moree....so yes we do have hot showers and cold toilets available at the pub free of charge always...and we have heaps of camping and caravan (unpowered) spots along our beautiful tree lined and water filled Moonie River where you can swim. Fish and trap yabbies at your leisure anytime for free.....at the pub always we have qualified chefs on staff and have beautiful fresh meals available 7 days a week (the biggest and best 1 kilo plus T bone in Aust) and recently launched the challenge for the biggest hamburger in Australia with our now famous 5 kilo plus Road train Burger (it feeds min of 4 adults)...if you eat the T-bone and chew the bone on your own you get a free pot of beer if you eat the road train burger on your own you get a free keg of beer....

At the pig races it is traditional to have outside vendors to set up to tempt you with the finest in show quality food plus we have available for you to partake in a beautiful pig on the spit...sorry food is not free (nor drinks) but it is all reasonably priced and excellent quality....

If you don’t want to camp St George is only 45klms away (25mins) and has over 100 wonderful motel rooms in total as well as 3 caravan parks and full town facilities ...

Last and never least for your pleasure and ours our friend and professional pyro technician Warren Ritchie from Fireworks Downunder will light up the beautiful night sky at app8pm with a show you will remember......

ALL WE NEED IS YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS to make it successful

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Roma Turf Club December Meeting

Christmas parties, marquees available for your office Christmas get-together or a family Christmas celebration; come and join the fun at the final meeting of the year!!!

And yes there is horse racing too...

Monday, December 17, 2012

Dubbo Turf Club - Christmas Cup

Dubbo Turf Club twilight meeting

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Snowy Mountains Muster

Come along and experience high country hospitality at the Snowy Mountains Muster (formerly known as the Snowy River Festival), held at the Station Resort Jindabyne over three days 29th-31st December 2012; it is an event not to be missed.

Situated in the Iconic Snowy Mountains, home of The Man From Snowy River - the Muster, now in its 8th year offers something for everyone in an action packed program that showcases the skills and rich heritage of mountain stockmen alongside the breathtaking scenery of the Snowy River and High Country.

Riders from all over the country will battle it out in the Stockman’s Challenge, offering over $20,000 in prize money this year.

The event is a showcase of traditional stockman skills in the true spirit of the Man From Snowy River where modern day stockmen and women display their horsemanship skills in areas such as Bareback Obstacle, Whip Cracking, Stock Handling, Horse Shoeing, Packhorse, Cross Country Horse and the top ten riders will progress to the Brumby Catch and a New Final Event.

New to 2012 we have introduced The Snowy River Way Striplings Challenge for the 10 - 14year olds - a mini challenge giving young riders the opportunity to develop their horsemanship skills at an early age and due to popular demand we have also introduced Team Yarding into the program.

While riders battle it out in The Challenge we have a huge variety of entertainment on offer.

Noddy, officially the world’s biggest horse will be special guest at the Muster accompanied by his best mate Nash who is no miniature either; along with Sandi and David Simons ‘Cowboy dressage’ reining and liberty act, Fiona Wilks 9 time Australian Whipcracking Champion, Carol Heuchan 2008 Australian Female Bush poetry Champion, High Country Art competition & Sale, live music, Bush poetry competition & performances and a great heritage display.

Add to that; a circus, pig races, petting zoo, working dog display, buskers, novelty races, vintage cars and tractors, market stalls and so much more that you’ll need 3 days to take it all in.

Accommodation is available on site and there is also plenty of accommodation available in Jindabyne.

For more Muster information (including accommodation packages) please see the website below

The Snowy Mountains Muster is proudly brought to you by The Lions Club of Jindabyne Inc.

Monday, December 31, 2012

Tibooburra Gymkhana and Rodeo New Years Eve

Dates for this event have not been confirmed.

Monday, December 31, 2012

Advertise Your Wyndham Event or Festival Here

Friday, January 18, 2013

Tamworth Country Music Festival

The Tamworth community and visiting country music enthusiasts will celebrate the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Attracting up to 50,000 visitors to the regional city, there are more than 2,500 events held over the course of the 10-days, with more than 70 percent of events free to the public. On average, there are over 700 musicians (including buskers) that come to Tamworth for the Festival to enjoy the celebrations and if not already, try and create a name for themselves. With more than 60 venues spread across the Tamworth that provide entertainment and activities during the Festival, visitors can be guaranteed there will be something on to their liking.

Tamworth combines a number of key elements to attract two very different primary target markets to the Country Music Festival: traditional country music fans generally aged over 55, retired and have time to travel and; young party-goers between the ages of 20-35 who have limited travelling time, undertake minimal planning and generally go out at night to the pub/clubs.

During the annual Country Music Festival, perhaps the most unique component that dictates the success of the Country Music Festival is the fact that there is no, one organiser or organising committee. Although there are major stakeholders in the event such as Tamworth Regional Council and Tourism Tamworth, the Tamworth community has long recognised the importance of this event and everyone pulls together to ensure its success. 

The Tamworth Regional community becomes involved with all aspects of the Festival from accommodation to hospitality services, banks, fuel stations and even mechanics – the local community embraces the Festival and all the visitors which come to town to celebrate this unique event.

In more recent years, there are generally about 700 musicians on hand to entertain the crowds over the 10-day long festival including all the big stars that regularly make the journey to Tamworth every January such as John Williamson, Gina Jeffreys, Troy Cassar-Daley, Sara Storer, Tania Kernaghan, Graeme Connors, Beccy Cole and Adam Brand.

However, just as Tamworth has more to offer than country music, the annual Country Music Festival always has more to see than just country music. Recent years have seen the likes of Shannon Noll, Jimmy Barnes, John Butler Trio, the Whitlams and Missy Higgins all make the trek to Tamworth to entertain fans wishing to see something different.

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Mungindi Mud Trials

Just an over an hour's drive from Moree, you will find Mungindi on the NSW/QLD border. 

Where: “Dindierna” approx 14kms on the Boomi/ Goondiwindi Road

Cost: $10 adults, $5 Children (5-15 yrs) under 5 Free

Time: Gates open at 6.30am

Come along to the Mungindi Mud trails for a great family day. On the day you will see local standard & modified cars. enjoy watching the cars earn there points while playing in the mud. There will be canteen facilities on the day!!

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Fryerstown Antique Fair

Of all the antique fairs held across Australia, there is one which is an absolute 'must' for dealers, stall holders, collectors and browsers and. that's the Fryerstown Antique Fair. This year, its 37th consecutive year, indicates its popularity and enduring quality!

Still held in and around the historic Fryerstown Hall, you will find fine antiques, Australiana, hobby collectables, furniture, old kitchenware, vases, pottery, odds and ends, pieces to mend, and many more treasured pieces.

If antiques and collectables are your thing and you haven't yet made it to Fryerstown, then you are missing out - so give yourself a treat and visit the fair. Held over three days before Australia Day.

For several years local ceramicist David Lyons has exhibited his unique Australiana creations and will do so again. These will include figurines of Lizards, Birds, and koalas as well as hand decorated platters and vases. Fryerstown is in Central Victoria 11km south east of Castlemaine.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Menindee Australia Day Weekend

Cash prizes

Also Market Stalls, Rubber Duckie Race (pending rain) on the Darling Billy Cart Race, Helicopter Rides, plus lots more fun for all the family.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Blackwater Australia Day Celebrations

Come along and enjoy a breakfast with family and friends, including bacon, sausages, eggs and damper. Tea, coffee and cordial available. Cost is $2 per person or $5 per family. Come dressed in your best Aussie gear and win a prize! Enter in the thong throwing competition, try the trivia quiz, watch performances by local talents and the presentations of the Duaringa Shire Australia Day Awards.

Held at Rotary Park, corner of Mackenzie and Wattle Sts.

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Emerald Australia Day Celebrations

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Boyup Brook Country Music Festival, Ute and Truck Muster

The Boyup Brook Country Music Festival is Western Australia’s premier Country Music Festival. Five big days of music, fun and laughter.
Artists for this year include: Kasey Chambers, Bill Chanbers, Adam Harvey, Carter & Carter, Morgan Evens, Amber Lawrence and many more talented singer/songwriters.
This event is particularly important to Western Australia as it is the biggest and most successful country music festival.

The festival attracts all ages, providing a friendly atmosphere of entertainment and a great weekend away.

With public support the event has grown from a one day festival to a five day refreshingly authentic country music extravaganza. This brings the grass roots of country music to Boyup Brook, where followers can experience a blend of national artists and original artists from Western Australia in a friendly, country setting. Then, winding down on the Sunday with a traditional Bush Poets' Breakfast and great music.

Camping and accommodation is available, see the website for details.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Seymour Alternative Farming Expo

Since 1991, Seymour Alternative Farming Expo has grown into the most successful alternative farming expo in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the best in the world.

Each year, over three days in February, more than 450 exhibitors present the world's best agricultural technology for a general audience of 45,000 visitors including farming professionals and members of the general public.

Seymour Alternative Farming Expo is a massive outdoor supermarket for leading edge farm machinery, products and services from Australia and around the world and showcases Australia's unique engineered and technical solutions to the challenges of farming on one of the world's driest continents.

The technology at Seymour Alternative Farming Expo each year focuses on advances in alternative livestock, cropping enterprises, small to medium farm machinery, implements and building systems (home and farm).  The Expo has a strong lifestyle focus including food growing and preparation, animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and backyard chooks.  Regular event features include the Snake Show, Chainsaw Carving, Working Sheep Dogs, Country Cook Off and the Butchers Shop, Gourmet Food Marquee, The Owner Builder Lectures, Agricultural Society Lectures and the NMIT Ag Zone Lectures.
The Alternative Farming Expo is located on a superbly laid out site at Kings park in Tallarook St, Seymour.

The site is situated only 1hr from Melbourne in Victoria, and is easy accessible from the Hume highway.

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Balranald Races

Event dates to be confirmed

Come along and enjoy the Balranald Races outback nsw,  fun filled activity at Balranald's Little Randwick Race Course. Bet on Local and interstate races with Bookmakers or TAB

BYO Alcohol not permitted Bar Facilities available on course

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Alice Springs - Imparja Cup Cricket Carnival

The Imparja Cup is a National Indigenous Cricket Carnival held in Alice Springs annually. Teams Australia wide travel to compete in 6 categories throughout the tournament.

Indigenous teams representing all states and territories in Australia, as well as major centres and communities of the Northern Territory, come together in Alice Springs for the annual Imparja Cup. Various competition formats are played, including 20/20, 40 overs per side and Super 8s. The Imparja Cup gives players the opportunity to participate in a strong competition and provides a platform which helps promote the game in the community.

Entry is 'Free of Charge' for spectators only

Held at Traeger Park 

See more outback events

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Bendemere Cup

Forty years ago at Bassett Park, The first Bendemere Cup was held at the newly formed Roma Turf club at the suggestion of the Wallumbilla community (the original race club in the Bendemere district) who wanted to establish a presence in the new club.

Aware of the strong history of the race in the district, former Bendermere shire mayor, Rex Smith, determined to keep the race tradition alive, was able to galvanise the other four shires to support the event, bringing their employees, their suppliers and their ratepayers to one of the regions’ oldest Cup races.  When the shire councils amalgamated in 2008, the Bendemere Cup proved to be a lynch pin for the spirit of co-operation which would carry the Maranoa council and its people into the next stage of growth and development.

More than 1000 people attended that day and cheered as Rex performed one of his final duties as mayor of Bendemere in presenting the large silver Cup to the racewinner.

Local businesses and community groups have been keen to support the event as a way of bringing together those in the shire for a day of social activity and country racing.

Bendemere Construction Services have led the way in the Wallumbilla/Yuleba community, taking the main race and gathering support for the 5 race program from the Wallumbilla and Yuleba Hotels, Mid-West Rural Traders and Brandon and Associates.

The Bendemere Cup will excite interest from the wider Queensland racing community as it will include in its program Queensland Racing’s new QTIS 600 race for Magic Millions Two year olds, offering $50,000 in prize money. With extra prize money also boosting the remainder of the program, locals can expect a day of outstanding racing in Roma.

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Alpha Bullmania

Alpha Bullmania is an action packed Rodeo held on the last Saturday of February each year at the Alpha Showgrounds in Outback Queensland.

This year’s theme is “4'Bs Rodeo”; a dozen or so events covering Bulls, Barrels, Saddle Bronc & Bare Back.

Bull Riding, an exciting event for both rider and spectator refers to the rodeo sports where a rider gets on a large bull and attempts to stay mounted for 8 seconds while the bull attempts to buck the rider off. The rider scores points for the duration and control of the ride.

Barrel Racing is a Rodeo event in which a rider attempts to manoeuvre a horse through a series of barrels in a clover-leaf pattern in the fastest time. It is an exciting event to watch and tests the horsemanship and skills of both horse and rider.

Saddle Bronc is a rider attempting to ride a bucking horse for 10 seconds, using only a bronc saddle on the back of the horse, a halter attached to the horses head and the rider’s skill. The rider scores points by the control of the ride and the event is good to watch.

Bare Back is a rider attempting to ride a bucking horse for 10 seconds using only a strap around the horses belly with another strap like a jug handle attached to it to hold onto; he has no control over the horse. The rider scores points by the way he stays on the back of the horse (scary stuff).

In Saddle Bronc and Bare Back the riders do not get any points if they fall off before time.  10 seconds may not sound like much, but get on the back of one of these beasts and it seems like 10 minutes.

The outback Australia events are a chance for professional riders to show their skills in an entertaining way.

Action starts at 3 pm and continues into the evening. Bar facilities and hot food are available till late.

Friday, March 8, 2013

Jericho Campdraft

Jericho Campdraft    March 8,9,10 2013

Wikipedia describe Campdrafting is a unique Australian sport involving a horse and rider working cattle.

In the timed competition, a rider on horseback must "cut out" (segregate) one beast from the mob of cattle in the yard or "camp" and block and turn that beast at least two or three times to prove to the judge that they have the beast under control; then take it out of the yard and through a course around pegs involving right and left hand turns in a figure eight, before guiding it through two pegs known as "the gate". Campdrafting is a highly skilled sport recognised by the Australian Institute of Sport as a national sport where the riders score points for their execution of the draft and compete for both prize money and prestige.

Campdrafting is also a very popular family sport with most Campdrafting days scheduling an open, maiden, novice, ladies’ and junior events, some include bareback and motorcycle Campdrafting. There are hundreds of events across regional Australia with thousands of competitors.

The Jericho Rodeo Association Inc conduct a 10 event program over 2 ½  days covering Open Draft, Maiden Draft, Encouragement Draft, Juvenile Draft,  Junior Draft,  Mini Draft, Ladies Draft, Restricted Open Draft, Novice Draft and Open Final including a bareback cut-out competition where competitors  cut out a beast from the camp without using a saddle. Each competitor is judged and given a score and winner takes all.

Another unique competition is the Lucky Beast Jackpot where a beast is marked (painted with a dot) and if the competitor chooses this beast to take out on course, and completes the course they win the jackpot amount, however failing to complete the course means the money jackpots to the next Lucky Beast. Lucky Beast Jackpot is a great way to pick up money without having to win the draft.

With prize money of over $5000.00 plus Lucky Beast Jackpots and trophies to ensure fierce competition, entertainment Friday and Saturday night, bar and kitchen operating from 3pm Friday and all weekend, the Jericho Campdraft is set to be a highlight of 2013.

Free entry and camping is offered for all with Clean and modern amenities.

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Advertise your Whyalla Event or Festival here

Contact us

Thursday, March 14, 2013

The John O'Brien Bush Festival

Bush poetry, Irish music sessions and dancing, as well as top class performances of humour, word and song, contribute to an authentic outback Australian event.

Head off to the Narrandera John O’Brien Festival of bush poetry and music.

The Festival provides three days of poetry, music, culture and fun activities for the whole family in the beautiful town of Narrandera

Come along and join the locals and help us celebrate this annual event in honour of the famous Australian poet John O’Brien, who lived and worked as Narrandera’s Parish Priest for many years.

Heaps of new talent will add freshness to proceedings over the four days; but there will also be the festival favourites who will be at their entertaining best... poets, storytellers, musicians, and dancers.

Australia’s Bush Poet Champions past and present rub shoulders with the new chums, leaving a liberal legacy of laughter to brighten your visit.

Features include an Art Show, poets’ breakfasts and competitions, yarns “Around the Boree Log”, buskers, stalls, street entertainment, bush dancing, wine tasting, and Poetry, Port and Pottage!

The Street Carnival this year features a Carnival Conga.

Local groups, clubs and schools, along with Festival visitors are all invited to dress up and join the Conga Line!

Great prizes for the bestdressed,the most outrageous, and the funniest.

Variety is part of our festival spice, so while on location in Narrandera enjoy visits to:

• Parkside Cottage Museum (where Macarthur’s coat is on display)
• Can Assist Book Sale (with hundreds of books and magazines of all types to choose from)
• Eco Tour (with running commentary and the chance to see koalas up close)
• A visit to the Inland Fisheries Centre to see the huge freshwater fish aquariums.

Narrandera in March is the place to be!

For the 2013 program check out the website below!

Friday, March 15, 2013

Roma Picnic Race Club

The time-honored tradition of horse racing has a rich and colourful history in Queensland and none more so than that of the Roma Picnic Races.

It is believed that the Roma Picnic Races started after a dispute broke out in a local shearing shed on the property of “Bellevue”. In order for the locals to determine a resolution to the dispute a horse race was organised near Camp Creek.

To this day the outcome of the challenge is unknown however the race was the birth of what we now know to be the Roma Picnic Races.

The first race meet was for grass fed horses only and so the Picnics tradition was born. The racing of locally owned horses, raised in the paddock, was well supported by the district and continued for the next almost nine decades until Racing Queensland standardised all clubs and the Grass Fed tradition was no more.

Today, the Roma Picnics is a two day event held in the Autumn featuring a black tie ball the evening before the race day and a five race program.

Saturday, March 16, 2013

Broken Hill St Patricks Race Day

The Broken Hill St Patrick’s Race Club began in early 1965 when John Toms, a well-known local trainer thought of a way to boost local racing and help alleviate the desperate financial position of the local Catholic schools.

During a game of golf with Catholic administrator, Father Pat Murray, John suggested that by using volunteer labour from within the Catholic School system, they could establish an annual race meeting offering attractive prize money, trophies, food and drink and later – fashions on the field. Excited by the prospect, they discussed the idea with other racing enthusiasts & a committee was formed to commence planning for the inaugural race meeting on Saturday, 19 March 1966.

Now more than forty five years on, the phenomenal success of the race meeting continues to grow with TAB status and viewed on Sky Channel, the eight race program offers total prize money & trophies of over $130,000 drawing trainers and race day patrons to our city from every state in Australia.

Named as one of Outback Australia's premier horse racing events, Broken Hill's St Patricks Race Day is on 16th March 2013.

Fashions on the field are a major part of the St Pats racing day with $20,000 in prizes up for grabs. The 7 sections are judged by high profile media personalities, well know local business identities and judges from within the fashion industry.

So if you're looking for a great day full of fun, fame and fanciness come dressed to win (in your favourite St Pats day colours)

Friday, March 22, 2013

Albury - Albury Gold Cup

The Albury Gold Cup is recognised as an icon event for the fast developing city of Albury.

Saturday, March 23, 2013

Cloncurry Races

Cloncurry races are a great day, with many social activities and excellent catering. However, horses, too, are important and trainers bring them great distances.

Cloncurry Race Club has been established since the early 1890’s, and is strongly supported by the local racing fraternity and regional horse trainers. The Race Day caters for the whole family with children’s playgrounds on course, lollydrops & entertainment for the kids. Ladies get involved by entering our Fashions of the Field competition by frocking up on the day.

General information:

There are full bar and catering facilities available and bookmakers for local and southern races. Local charities benefit from races as we offer the catering to a local organisation and another organisation supervise the gate entries for a donation in return so all in all the whole town benefits from the races in Cloncurry.

Did You Know?

Racing in the Cloncurry district dates back to the 1880s; a horse called “Grenadier” is recorded as winning the 1884 Cloncurry Cup. The horse was owned by the Magistrate of the time, Richard Uhr, and the cup is on display at the Mary Kathleen Memorial Museum. The Cloncurry racetrack in the early 1900s was a very grand place - "Randwick of the North", according to some older people in the town! There was a large grandstand with a stairway up the middle, a roof and a tea room underneath and lawns surroundings. This grandstand was blown down in 1940 by a freak storm. Part of the stand remains and a bar now stands where the tearoom once was (refreshments have certainly got stronger!).

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Roma - Easter in the Country

EASTER IN THE COUNTRY 2013

Bursting at the seams with fun for the whole family, Easter in the Country 2013 is jam-packed with a huge range of things to see and do. 

For the thrill-seekers, crowd favourites such as the famous unpredictable goat races, the adrenaline pumping Night Rodeo and Bull Ride, the mud pits of the Lions Mud Derby, the action packed Speedway, Drag Racing, and the XXXX Gold Cup Race meeting.

Motocross returns again, while for those who like a little less action, the Country Markets are the perfect place to wander and browse for something unique while waiting for the Saturday Street Parade which is full of wacky and wonderful floats, quirky street characters and novelty races.  

The Art Exhibition is also another place to find a quiet moment and explore the many facets of creative expression.

President, Lyn Kajewski says “A fabulous 1940’s Swing Dinner Dance is again on the the program this year to remember the glamour, music and dance of an era where life was a little slower and which evolved from a period in time when the world was at war.   

So, glam up and dance the night away or sit back and relax while sipping on a martini.”

The Bush Poets return again this year to share stories of our heritage through bush poetry while displays of historical collections and the historical Mt Abundance Homestead will provide a glimpse of times gone by.

Every year Roma hosts this well loved festival which draws crowds of over 17,000 who take the opportunity to celebrate and enjoy all things country. 

So jump in your car and make your way out to Roma for a great Easter in the Country!

Friday, March 29, 2013

Forbes Camel Races

An exciting, fun-filled day of Camel Racing at Forbes!

Camel racing is returning to Forbes, and the 'ships of the desert' again promise to deliver an entertaining Good Friday at Forbes Racecourse.

The 12th annual Forbes Camel Races are to be held with an 11-race programme planned; including the feature race, the ‘Camel Cup’.

Gates open at 10am with the first race scheduled for 11.30am.

Other attractions and entertainment to the day include:

• Full bar and canteen facilities
• Market stalls
• Kids foot races
• Amusement rides
• Live entertainment
• Karate demonstration
• RM Williams Fashion Parade
• Helicopter rides (weather permitting)
• Charity Sweeps
• Animal Nursery

Friday, March 29, 2013

World Barramundi Fishing Championships Burketown

This popular annual fishing event, which is conducted out of Burketown, takes place each year at Easter, offering over $7500 in prize money, with $2600 for the heaviest single catch. 

Friday, March 29, 2013

Lightning Ridge Easter Festival

The Lightning Ridge Easter festival is in it's 37th year and showcases all the ‘Ridge’ has to offer and more!  A fun-filled weekend for all the family.

Friday night is the RIDGEFACTOR

(Lightning Ridge’s take on a talent quest) Their will be three different age groups Children up to the age of 12 years, 13 Years to 17 years and 18 and above, with huge prize money up for grabs and live entertainment to follow late into the night. Don’t miss a great night for the whole family.

MAJOR EVENT:

RIDGEFACTOR: 4pm-7pm at the Lightning Ridge Bowling Club (Free entry)

SATURDAY is a day of ‘action’ with the‘Big Dig’ Event (purchase a big dig ticket and you could be one of the lucky people that get the chance to dig for thousands of dollar’s worth of opal in the main street).

Be sure you don’t miss the newest event added to the Easter Festival weekend ‘Miners Challenge’ (Watch miners battle it out to see who’s the best and quickest miner on the block).

Street Races (Dress up like a goat and complete an obstacle course, wheelie bin races plus many more).

Horse Races (6 race event, gates open at 12noon, celebrating over 100 years of racing in Lightning Ridge).

Buskers will perform through the day with a Busk off  finals held Saturday evening. Saturday night will come alive with the breath-taking Fireworks display and live entertainment at both licensed venues.  

MAJOR EVENTS:

BIG DIG: 9am-10am (over 18 years) on the Crn of Opal and Morilla Streets

STREET RACES: 10am-12 noon (8years to 17years) Morilla Street

HORSE RACES: Gates open at 12noon, 6 Races event, bar and betting facilities available, fashions on the field a fun afternoon for the whole family. Agate Street

MINERS CHALLENGE: 12.30pm-2.30pm on the Crn of Opal and Morilla Streets

BUSK OFF: Buskers will perform on Opal and Morilla Streets during the day, the finals will be held at the Lightning Ridge Outback Resort with entertainment from the Wise Guys to follow late into the night crn of Onyx and Morilla Streets

FIREWORKS DISPLAY: 8.30pm shooting off from the soccer oval they can be seen from just about anywhere in the Ridge.

Of course there will be street stalls and roving performances by extraordinary entertainers and the night will come alive with breath-taking  fireworks and live entertainment at both licensed venues.

SUNDAY you can relax with a stroll through the Sunday Morning Markets, sit and listen to one of the many buskers, visit the I.B.C GEM gardens or the Information Centre.  

For those of you, who are after more action head down to the centre of town to watch day two of the Street Races, The Little Dig’ (Very similar to the big dig, the only difference is it’s just for the kids) or watch the ‘Float Parade’ once the float parade has passed through the main street follow it down to the Lions Park and to see the winners announced.

Finish off the afternoon looking for Easter Eggs at the Easter Egg Hunt or take a stroll around and listen to the numerous buskers in the park.

MAJOR EVENTS

STREET RACES: 10am-12 noon (8years to 17years) Morilla Street

LITTLE DIG: 8am-10AM (8years to 16years) on the Crn of Opal and Morilla Streets

Other Events held during the weekend:

FRIDAY: 10am-2pm: The Lightning Ridge Historical Society’s exhibition ‘Lightning Ridge 1977’ (Historical Society building Morilla Street) - The Early Years of the Lightning Ridge Race Club, 1911-2011

SATURDAY: 6.30pm  - The Ridge Art Space presents ‘Crazy for colours’ an exhibition of paintings by Anne Golledge (Artspace, Onyx Street)

9am-1pm: The Lightning Ridge Historical Society’s exhibition ‘Lightning Ridge 1977’ (Historical Society building Morilla Street) - The Early Years of the Lightning Ridge Race Club, 1911-2011

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY: 9am-5pm: Drop by the Australian Opal Centre to experience their amazing Opal and Fossil Display.

9am-5pm: Visit the Visitor Information Centre to find out more about the numerous attractions, book, tours etc.

The Easter Festival Committee wish to thank all the individuals and businesses who have made contributions to ensure the success of this weekend.

Friday, March 29, 2013

Easter In The Outback

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Coober Pedy Opal Festival

Coober Pedy -The famous outback town and opal capital of the world is set to showcase its mining heritage on Easter Saturday with an action packed weekend of entertainment for all the family.

This cosmopolitan town with its relaxed and friendly lifestyle is well known for its underground accommodation, museums, opal shops, galleries, churches and of course the opal mines them-selves.

The Opal Festival Ball is BACK in 2013! (More details to come.)

The weekend commences on Friday night when the Desert Cave will host the Opal Festival Ball with live music.

The Coober Pedy Opal Festival

The Opal Festival kicks off at 1.00pm with a colourful street parade in Coober Pedy’s unique main street and heads towards the Oz Minerals Oval where festivities will continue from 2.00pm.

Entertainment will include the ever popular exciting events:

Novelty events

Sumo Suits

The Opal Walk

The Opal King and Queen Ironman/Woman competition

Tower of Terror

Pony Rides

Heaps of kids entertainment - and so much more

Street stalls and the food and beverage marquees will operate throughout the day.

Why not try your luck noodling for opal at the noodle pit, or take a scenic flight over Coober Pedy with Wrights Air.

Exhibitors welcome contact Prue on the details below....

Save the date on your “must do” social calendar!

Now that you’ve made the decision to join us, why not stay a few days and soak up some of the spectacular scenery and attractions that his exciting town has to offer. Coober Pedy - you've never seen anything like it!

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Augathella Diggers Rodeo

There is plenty of activity over Easter in Augathella outback Queensland.
On Easter Saturday cowboys come from far and wide for the annual Augathella Diggers Rodeo.

Come join them and get dust between your toes for a real Aussie Outback Easter experience.

Kicking off with a Gymkhana, there is bending and flag races, open bull ride, saddle ride and - always the crowd pleaser - poddy rides for the kids. Make a weekend of it, stick around and see the sights. Augathella has some fantastic murals and arts and craft displays, plus so much more.

Don't forget to bring your best hat and cap the weekend off on Easter Monday at Augathella Easter Monday Races.

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Easter in the Vines

Vineyard with a difference

Looking for something to do over the Easter break?

Are you thinking of an Outback Queensland family get away?

Easter in the Vines is for you!

Set in our lush country garden overlooking the vines, Easter is always a family focused event with kid’s activities, an Easter Egg hunt & plenty of space to play!

Feed your tastebuds at the BBQ (It's such a great idea to cook your own steak just the way you like it) or café and quench your thirst at the Bar, which will have beer, spirits, soft drinks, and of course our famous wines available. Who’s up for scones, mudcake or coffee?

Live entertainment with country music legend Adam Kilpatrick features all day Saturday & Sunday.

It’s ideal for families and groups, with children’s activities throughout the weekend.

•    Free entry
•    Live entertainment
•    Family friendly atmosphere
•    The popular 'cook your own BBQ packs'
•    Delicious cheeseplatters & cafe treats
•    Kids activities - Easter egg hunt

Easter in the Vines promises you a weekend to remember, so gather some friends and head to Riversands.

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Packsaddle Gymkhana, Bikekhana and Funday

Packsaddle Gymkhana, Bikekhana & Funday - Easter Weekend 2013

Saturday and Sunday - Packsaddle Gymkhana Grounds Packsaddle NSW

ADULTS (18 years & over) $10 per day $20 weekend

CHILDREN (12-17 years) $5 per day

FAMILY Pass $40

Part proceeds to selected charities

NO BYO NO GLASS. Licensed bar & canteen facilities available Saturday
to Sunday. Live entertainment by SwingShift. Charity auction & lucky
door prizes. Free camping area & showers at the grounds.

Saturday

Gymkhana start 9am Sharp CST

18 events (4 age groups) Includes Cup & Bracelet & other feature events.

Nick Day Memorial ‘Leading Junior & Senior Gymkhana Riders of the Day’

Best Presented Horse & Rider 12 & Under.


Sunday

Bikekhana start 9.30am 11 Events (5 classes).

Incudes feature Barrel Race and Will Kuerschner Memorial

‘Junior & Senior Bikekhana Riders of the Day‘.

Funday events - Starting with Easter Bonnet Parade ($50)
& Easter Egg Hunt at 9am. Events continue throughout the day.

Adults & children’s events, foot races, 3 legged races, Jock jump,
slippery saddle. Drive the nail, throw the broom, relays.

For program details see attached file below or visit the website

Saturday, March 30, 2013

Murray River Giant Pumpkin Competition - Cadell Harvest Festival

The Murray River Giant Pumpkin Competition has become a highlight of the Cadell Harvest Festival held on Easter Saturday each year to showcase the town and its diverse harvest.

The Murray River Giant Pumplin Competition has now been endorsed an official weigh-in site for the ‘THE GREAT PUMPKIN COMMONWEALTH’

With a grand prize of a return trip to San Francisco and transfers to the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin & Art Event (compliments MGA Insurance Brokers) up for grabs for the winner of the Heaviest Pumpkin; this event has attracted some serious attention from all over Australia.

Other categories include:

• The Ugliest Pumpkin
• Best Looking Pumpkin
• Biggest Squash
• Best Dressed Pumpkin. 

Last year’s winner from Byron Bay took out the grand prize with an amazing weight of 394 kilograms.

The festival also boasts a range of good old fashioned country style entertainment including:

• Cockroach Racing
• Grape Catching
• Orange Throwing
• Carp Tossing
• An Easter egg hunt

Best Home brew, pickles and jam competitions, wine tastings, pumpkin cuisine, giant jumping castles for children, food and craft stalls as well as bar facilities are also available on the day.

The annual Scarecrow competition has become a highlight of the festival with categories such as:

• Best Original Scarecrow
• Best Movie Character Scarecrow
• Most Humorous
• Scariest Scarecrow

All creating an interesting spectacle as you enter town.

Sunday, March 31, 2013

Bendigo Winemakers Festival

The Winegrowers of Bendigo and District invite you to join them in the now traditional vintage festival that is held on Easter Sunday each year in the magnificent Castlemaine Botanical Gardens.

With over thirty of our local winegrowers in attendance, this is your opportunity to sample and cellar the best wines the district has to offer

Free buses will be running from Bendigo to Castlemaine Gardens.

Sunday, March 31, 2013

Gilgandra Rodeo

Get ready for some buck jumpin’, rip roarin’ rodeo action at the Gilgandra Rodeo on the Easter Weekend, held annually.

With a rodeo, bull-riding, saddle bronc competition, kids entertainment, fun, games and competitions – there is plenty to keep the whole family amused!

Easter Sunday

Rodeo at Rodeo Yards Gilgandra Show Ground
South Pacific Concert Band playing at Gilgandra Services Club

The Gilgandra Rodeo sees over 260 competitors; compete in the fully accredited ABCRA pro event, across a range of events including a bull ride, saddle bronc, breakaway riding, steer wrestling and bare back riding.

Watch as these highly skilled horsemen are put through their paces as they compete for one of the most lucrative prize pools on the circuit.

Gilgrandra Rodeo Highlights: 

To celebrate this proud and unique event in Australia’s history, Gilgandra comes alive with a jam-packed schedule of rodeo events over the course of the day. 

There is plenty of food and full bar service available. (No eskies are allowed through the gate)

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Man From Snowy River Bush Festival

Saddle up for one of the biggest events in outback Victoria!

This April, the Snowy Mountains will explode with entertainment and festivities to celebrate the legend of Banjo Patterson’s Man from

Snowy River!

With 4 days of action packed Australiana fun jammed into the program, you can expect be entertained by some of the best bush talent around.

The Festival boasts a four day trail ride, stockman’s challenge, ute muster, bush poetry and music, photographic exhibition and real life theatrical portrayal of Banjo’s Man from Snowy River poem, as the highlights of the event.

Man From Snowy River Festival Highlights:

Adam Harvey will be headlining the 'Country Rock Concert' on Saturday!

Imagine traipsing through the picturesque Snowy Mountains on horseback retracing the footsteps of the last journey of legendary Upper Murray stockman Jack Riley who met Banjo Paterson in 1890 and is locally regarded as the inspiration for Paterson 's famous ballad, "The Man from Snowy River"!

Australia Post Re-Enactment

Experience first hand a real life version of the Man from Snowy River poem with an authentic re-enactment of this legendary piece of Austra

lian culture. The act breathes life into the characters, culture and story behind the masterpiece…

Man from Snowy River Challenge

You’ll be amazed at the horsemanship and skill of today’s Snowy River stockman. All will be on display as these horseman compete in a series of events set to challenge the most skilled of professional riders (and horses)!

Poetry and Bush Music

An Australian Bush Festival isn’t complete without good old bush poetry, and in celebration of the king of Australian Bush Poetry, the Man from Snowy River Festival boasts the country’s best bush poets, singers, musicians and entertainers.

You’ll be entertained by street theatre, campfire stories and bush poetry competitions throughout the Festival!

Art and Photography

Some of the country’s best artists and photographers will have their work on display as the Art and Photography Competition offers a chance for artists to express their talents by depicting the Australian Bush Culture!

Ute Muster

Ute fans polish your bonnets and shine up your mags for the Man from Snowy River Ute Muster!

THURSDAY 4TH - SUNDAY 7TH APRIL

ALL WEEKEND

• Art & Photography,
• Victorian Bush Poetry Championships and Music Competitions & walk-ups &
• $60,000 Man From Snowy River Challenge.

FRIDAY

• Re-enactment of AB Paterson's Man From Snowy River Poem
• 4 day Mountain Trail ride - Rileys Riders come to Town,
• Street Parade,
• Street Stalls,
• Jack Riley Service @ Museum,
• Entertainment Marquee,
• 3 day - $60,000 Man From Snowy River Challenge Starts,
• Attree Park Community Concert,
• 7pm- High Country Rodeo & Music &
• ANZ High Country Station Team Muster.

SATURDAY

• Aussie Bush Idol Competition,
• Ute Muster,
• Bush Market,
• Entertainment Marquee,
• Busking Competition,
• Foz Dog Jump,
• Working Cattle/Sheep Dog Competition,
• Equestrian Education Arena,
• Lighthorse & Tent pegging display,
• Geoffrey Graham Show,
• The Crack up Sisters,
• The Challenge Continues &
• "RISING STARS" Aussie Bush Idol Finalists at the COUNTRY ROCK CONCERT.

SUNDAY

• Campdraft,
• Team Penning,
• Arena Entertainment,
• Man From Snowy River Finals,
• Brumby Catch &
• Stocksaddle Buckjump.

For more information on the Man From Snowy River Bush Festival checkout this poster!

Friday, April 12, 2013

Thargomindah Channel Country Challenge (Event to be confirmed)

Saddle up the Thargomindah Stockmans Challenge. The event will see Australia's best stockman line up to take out the coveted award and prize money.

This is the fifth year of the Channel Country Challenge at Thargomindah. Each year the event grows from strength to strength. Competitors come from as far a field as Tamworth in the south to Cloncurry in the north, from Toowoomba in the east and Maree in the west. There are a maximum number of 20 horses for sale, which was conducted by Elders in Cunnamulla. The top priced horse fetched AUD $8,750.

There is a Claypan Boogie under the stars on Friday Night followed by one of the best outback rodeos around on Saturday night. The Channel Country stockmen come to participate in the rodeo. Sunday is all of the finals for the Challenge and campdrafts. For a great weekend of entertainment in the midst of the channel country come to Thargomindah as a spectator or compete alongside the true outback stockmen of Australia.

Throw in a bit of live entertainment, full bar, kitchen operating and a friendly atmosphere and you are guaranteed a good time in Thargomindah Stockman's Challenge.

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Booligal Sheep Races

Sheep Racing is obviously a very tricky business. If it wasn't, everyone would be organising it, and the TAB would be involved. It seems that only in Booligal do there exist people with the ingenuity and enterprise to organise such an event as Sheep Racing, and it is a lot of fun!

Sheep, as we all know, are loyal, flocking, shepherd-following creatures, and have inspired whole breeds of Sheep Dogs, and their resulting Sheep-Dog trial events, so it is only appropriate that sheep have an event of their own in which to star.

Sheep do occasionally gallop a little in the open paddocks, but organised racing is another thing altogether. Being much smaller than horses, they cannot comfortably carry a jockey, for starters, so are not required to in this form of racing. Instead they are piloted by instinct and the collective urgings and encouragement of their handlers. (Date to be confirmed closer to the event)

Friday, April 19, 2013

Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival

The Julia Creek Dirt & Dust Festival will celebrate its 19th year in 2013.

From modest beginnings, today’s event brings together people from all walks of life – people from Queensland, Australia and overseas.

Julia Creek, based in McKinlay Shire, is proud to host what is fast becoming Queensland’s “must go-to” event.

Each year the Committee aims to reproduce the highlights of the previous years and add new attractions to continually showcase the town, its people and the true Aussie outback.

The Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival is three jam-packed days of fun and entertainment staged in Julia Creek, North West Outback Queensland.

Building on the success of previous years, the Festival is quickly becoming more than bulls, bikes and butts.

Situated in the centre of the adventurous OVERLANDER’S WAY, the Julia Creek Dirt & Dust Festival provides the focal point in the magnificent month of April for our many visitors who gather and celebrate, before heading out to explore or work in our glorious outback.

Activities and events include:

senior and junior triathlon       

• Artesian Express horse races
• Pro Bull Riding Challenger Series (bull riding)
• live music
• Australia's Best Butt competition
• novelty events
• Senior and Junior Triathlon
• Dirt & Dust Ute Muster

So come along and check out the many colourful characters in our part of the world. Try your hand at one of the competitions.

Or sit back and enjoy the hospitality and excitement of the weekend.

Free campingis available at McIntyre Park (the race course) 2kms from town - no bookings required.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Capella State High School P & C Camel Cup (event to be confirmed)

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Newman Rodeo

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Mt Magnet Races

Mount Magnet Race Club hosts two meetings each year, usually during April and October. Held at the Mount Magnet Race Course on Watson Street, these involve a full day of activities and entertainment. The Race Club runs a fully licensed bar on the day and there are events including luncheons, fashion parades and bands. After the races Racing are over two-up is played at the race course.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Nyngan Jockey Club - Anzac Day Race Meeting

A day at the Nyngan races!

$22,500 Prizemoney
Free Luncheon, Free Merry-Go-Round and Jumping Castle, BBQ, Afternoon Tea, Full Bar

Friday, April 26, 2013

Nullarbor Muster

On the middle weekend of the April school holidays, the local pastoralists, stationhands and many visitors get together and share an action packed weekend on a property near the seldom-used Rawlina Railway Siding, 380 kms East of Kalgoorlie.

The accommodation is under a blanket of stars, full ablution facilities are available to wash away the dust at the end of the day.

Camp fires are allowed.  The event is fully catered for with the food being very reasonably priced. 

The bar is open during the afternoons and evenings.

The program consists of novelty events for everyone.

Friday night starts with the Iron Man and Women competition, the Nullarbor Boat Race and Open Bullride.

Gymkhana events and barrel racing commences early Saturday with bull riding during the evening. 

The skeet shoot goes all day with arm wrestling and children's novelty events providing entertainment during the lunch break.  Sunday morning things wind down with a ute muster. 

There are excellent prizes to be won for all the events.

Tickets: Adults $30.00

Free transport is provided for horses from Kalgoorlie; a 380 km journey east along the Trans Australian Railway line to Rawlinna.

Transfers from Kalgoorlie can be arranged. Contact Goldrush Tours on 1800 620 440

Click here for the 2013 program

More on Kalgoorlie

Friday, May 3, 2013

Injune Where Country Is Festival

The South-Western Queensland town of Injune may be small with a population of  only 370 people, however, the Injune ‘Where Country Is’ Festival is certain to be a ‘big’ deal!

An hour north of Roma, and about 7 hours north-west of Brisbane lies the former ‘cattle and dairy hub’ town of Injune. Surrounded by scenic national parks including Carnarvon Gorge, Ka Ka Mundi, Mt Moffatt, Salvator Rosa,  Nuga Nuga, Lonesome, Expedition and Beilba; Injune is the perfect place to relax and enjoy life or explore some of outback Australia’s most stunning natural attractions; and what better time is there to do this then during the Injune ‘Where Country Is’ Festival.

See the memorial sign dedicated to the coal miners of the old Maranoa Collieries Coal Mine site, the plaque at the site of the ‘Lonesome Plane Crash’ and the dedication of headstones on unmarked graves at the Old Injune cemetery.

 More about Injune

Friday, May 3, 2013

Jondaryan - Australian Heritage Festival

Friday, May 3, 2013

Richmond Outback Fossil Festival 2014

Looking for a fun-filled Outback experience?.....  Look no further than the Richmond Outback Fossil Fest!

Set your course for Richmond, North West  Outback Queensland for the 2014 May Day long weekend.

The weekend promises fun for everyone:

The Richmond Outback Fossil Fest offers Tours, Talent and Top-notch Fun for everyone during the May Day long weekend, May 2-5, 2014.

Tour: A Natural Spring Oasis, the Town Heritage Trail, a Fossicking Site or memory lane at the Show & Shine.

Talent: Enjoy the local youth, the Richmond Live Music Club, live bands and the bush poet.

Test: Your golf swing – WIN a Mazda 2 at the Key Motors Hole-in-One!

Taste: The entries in the North Queensland Sausage King Challenge.

Take: A Walk or Ride for Life in support of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Top-notch fun: Rodeo, Bush Races, Moon Rock Throwing, Loader Pull, Rock-climbing, Water-skiing, Power boats and so much more.

Cheer on your favourite at the Bush Race meeting and dance to the live music at the Street Party.

Pitstop to the Creek encompasses 3 world class festivals starting with the Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival , progressing through Richmond for the Richmond Fossil Festival, and on to Charters Towers for the McDonalds Charters Towers Country Music Festival

Friday, May 3, 2013

McDonalds Charters Towers Country Music Festival

Country music fans are in for a real treat this year at the McDonalds Charters Towers Country Music Festival.

Held on the May Day Long weekend each year the richly historic outback city comes to life with the cream of Country Music Talent.

Names like Jade Hurley, The McClymonths, Marcus Meirer, The Anthony Taylor Band, Dave Prior and the very funny Wickety Wak Boys will entertain the crowds whilst around 800 contestants will vie for their share of the lime light and over $25,000 in prize money making this Australia’s largest Country Music Talent Quest.

From humble beginnings in 1978 the festival continues to grow against a backdrop of one of Outback Australia’s best presented heritage cities founded on gold mining and pastoral activities.

Proceeded by the All Australian Jamboree, the McDonalds Charters Towers Country Music Festival brings thousands of music fans to enjoy all that Charters Towers has to offer together with Bush Poetry, Line Dancing, Street Parade, Shop Displays, Buskers, the Talent Quest – including previous winners and of course the Country Music stars.

Inexpensive, well presented camping facilities at the Charters Towers Show Grounds will be available to weekend pass holders.

You can also check out some of the town’s other accommodation options here.

It’s our biggest weekend of the year here in Charters Towers and we’d like to see you experience our part of the Queensland Outback.

The “world” as Charters Towers is known is located on the Overlanders Way  the running from Townsville to Tennant Creek- one of Australia’s exciting drives.

Pitstop to the Creek encompasses 2 world class festivals starting with the Julia Creek Dirt and Dust Festival  and on to Charters Towers.

Make sure you allow enough time to explore this beautiful part of outback Australia.

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Longreach Outback Drover's Reunion

Each year outback workers, drovers, stockmen and women come together to honour the Drovers of days gone by. This has become an annual pilgrimage to come back to Longreach each year, to the home of the Drover.

Sitting around the campfire they tell yarns and remember those who lived lonely in the saddle moving stock through the Australian Outback. The Stockmen and women are here to participate in the annual outback games at Longreach.

Experience life in the bush with the Longreach Outback Drover's Reunion

Highlights of the weekend include Billy Tea and Damper, camp oven meals, Outback Games such as Whip Cracking, Billy Boiling and Damper Making, Driving the Nail, Boot Throwing.

There will also be Campfire Dinners with Yarn Telling.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Daly Waters Campdraft and Rodeo

Over the three days, there’s a variety of outback, adrenalin pumping rodeo events to check out… as well as some that you can join in on. Here’s a beginners guide to some of the events on show.

Campdraft
This is the original Aussie Rules. A sport unique to Australia, a horse rider must separate a bovine out from a small herd in a defined area. The rider then must block the animal two or three times so that the judge can see that the rider has the bovine under control. The rider must then navigate the animal through two pegs and out a gate… all within 40 seconds!

Barrel Racing
A rodeo event that’s particularly for the girls. The rider takes their horse into the arena, and rides it in the shape of a shamrock. The “leafs” of the shamrock are market out by barrels – hence the name. Once the rider has looped around the three barrels and then exits the arena, the event is complete. It’s a time based competition, fastest rider wins… and only one rider at a time of course.

Bronc and bull riding
Perhaps an event that epitomises the rodeo – jump on to a furious bucking bronc (horse) or bull, and stay on until you get thrown off. The idea is to keep only one hand on the horse or bull for at least 8 seconds, if your other hand touches the animal within that time, you’re disqualified. Not for the feint hearted.

Anyone willing to give the barrel race, the bronc ride or bull ride a go, just enter upon arrival

Night time entertainment

Live music will play in the evening and will be well worth stickin’ about for. Of course, food and beverages will be available throughout these outback festivities! Yee haw!

More on Daly Waters

Saturday, May 4, 2013

The Long Ride

The Long Ride to Cairns

Want to be a part of this epic journey and ride for a worthy cause with hundreds of other riders? Come and join us!

Riders from across Australia will be riding on several pre-planned routes to Cairns to raise awareness of and funds for  Prostrate Cancer and mens health matters. To date on 4 rides the group have raised over $450,000.00

Visiting over 26 local country towns some outback over 8 days from WA, SA, VIC, NSW and QLD the ride will be an exciting adventure with amazing scenery and wildlife along the way. Be welcomed into communities by people never met, enjoy great cameraderie and tall stories with new riding mates and old.

If you can’t make the whole 8 days why not join us for the weekend or a few days to support the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Fact Sheet:
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia (except for non-melanoma skin cancers) and the second greatest cause of cancer deaths in men.

It is estimated that over 18,700 new cases were diagnosed in Australia. Tragically, more than 2,900 Australian men each year die from prostate cancer.

In the early stages, there are few symptoms of prostate cancer; however, if detected early, prostate cancer is often treatable and curable.

This is why men aged 50 and over, or 40 if there is a family history of prostate cancer, should not wait for symptoms; they should talk to their doctor about prostate cancer - a simple step that could save your life.

Outbacknow proudly supports The Long Ride

Friday, May 4, 2012

The Tree of Knowledge Festival

Celebrating Barcaldine’s colourful past and the beautiful town it is today are several events and activities that together make up The Barcaldine Tree Of Knowledge Festival.

Barcaldine’s settlement began when a descendant of the Campbell’s of Barcaldine Castle in Scotland took up land on the Alice River and a railway line was constructed to the area in 1864.

Barcaldine’s fame arrived in 1891 when the Great Shearers Strike (marching under the “Eureka” flag), was held under the boughs of The Tree Of Knowledge, heralding the formation of the political movement we now know as the Australian Labor Party.

Offering something to enthral every member of the family, the Tree Of Knowledge Festival kicks off on Friday night with The Sports Dinner and an Under 18’s Disco but the real action starts Saturday with:

• ‘The Run’ shearing shed working display and smoko
• Main Street Market Stalls
• Barcaldine Race Club’s Tree of Knowledge Cup
• Revfest Street Cruize and Show and Shine
• Saturday Night Street Party featuring Live Bands

And on Sunday

• The rubber-burning  Barcy Rev Fest Drag Racing
• Ecumenical Service at Town Hall Park
• Music in the park
• Junior and Senior Rugby League action including
• The Converted Tree Of Knowledge Shield

Culminating Monday with

• May Day Street Parade
• May Day Market Stalls
• activities and novelty events
• Tree of Knowledge Goat Races and John de Groot Cup

When the festivities draw to a close why not spend a few days exploring this history-rich town in outback Queensland, home to the Australian Workers Heritage Centre, Between the Bougainvillea’s Heritage Trail and it’s dozens of beautifully restored buildings. 

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Cunnamulla Outback Masters Games

Will now take place 2012 (To Be Confirmed)

Get ready for the outback's largest mature aged multisport festival held in Cunnamulla.  The event is set to be bigger, bolder and better than ever! with over 11 number of sporting events jam packed into the 5 day affair.

 2012

Swimming, Athletics, Triathalon and Cycling

 2012

Gunshoot

Please Note: Coopers Creek  bikeride will be postponed  due to local flooding concerns near Coopers Creek.

You can again expect a fantastic sports program, first class entertainment and an enviable social calendar!

Please see below to register

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Barcaldine - May Day Long Weekend Races

Another Outback Event - Part of the Matilda Hwy racing series.
Even if you're not a fan of horse racing, a good time can be assured!

looking for more outback events?

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Field Days

Go back in time at the Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Field Days held at the Gatton Show grounds

The weekend is mainly dedicated to the working of these magnificent heavy horses; events such as ploughing, log snigging and slide driving which would have been an everyday sight on farms, coupled with harnessed vehicle events and a variety of ridden classes all show just how versatile these gentle giants are.

 Also happening throughout the weekend there are working demonstrations such as horse drawn machinery showing how horse power was used to chaff the hay for the farm. Added excitement outside the ring is the ever popular World Cup Shoeing Competition where teams from all over Australia and overseas compete to make a variety of shoes to fit the massive feet of the Heavy Horse.

Sunday, May 6, 2012

St George Annual Show

General Information

The St George Show will be held on 1st Sunday in May at the Show Grounds.

Competition Information

The St George Show hosts many competitions each year. The long time favourites are the photography, art and cooking competitions for the creative and the pet show is a must for owners of dogs and cats.

The St George Butchery is once again sponsoring the Guess the Weight of the Beast competition. And dont forget the syphon competition... a must for all blokes.

Please see the show schedule for entertainment, competitions and show times.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Alice Springs Turf Club XXXX Gold Cup Carnival

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Music In The Mulga

We're taking the Country back to the bush.

Wandilla Station is a working sheep and cattle property with permanent water from the Paroo River and Werai Creek offering opportunities for bird watching, photography and bush walking all year round.

Wandilla Station also offers bush camping in the spectacular red soil mulga country 15km south of Eulo in South West Queensland and is home to the Music in the Mulga country music festival held over the Mother's Day weekend each year.

This unique festival is five days full of great country and country rock music with the atmosphere of a large family gathering and in true outback style everyone is made to feel welcome.

Daily Walk-up concerts start at 10 am each day with nightly entertainment, the main concert is on Saturday from 1pm till late.

Artists this year are: Ged & Trudy Hintz, Jared Porter Band, Simply Bushed, Diezel Town, Andy Abra, Jayne Denham, Rob Black and Adam Kilpatrick

On Friday night there is a Celebrity Cook Off and Sunday morning is a Mother’s Day Breakfast with an Up Close & Personal Concert.

On Sunday night we are having a Charity Auction and Yabby Races.

Bar and BBQ operate nightly during the festival

There is unlimited camping with toilets, showers, camp kitchen, laundry and water but no powered sites. Generators are allowed during designated times.

Friday, May 10, 2013

Barcaldine Show

Barcaldine Show May 10th and 11th 2013

Barcaldine Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural Society Inc presents the Barcaldine Show.

More details, Program and updated information will be made available as they come to hand.

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Shark Bay Annual Fishing Fiesta

Welcome to the SHARK BAY FISHING FIESTA!                                                         

Held on the Denham Foreshore, the Shark Bay Fishing Fiesta is much more than a fishing competition, it is a festival to promote and celebrate the Shark Bay area, a remote and unique location on Western Australia’s Coral Coast.

Star attraction is the beautiful World Heritage Area that encompasses Shark Bay Marine Park, Francois Peron NP, Hamelin Pool Marine Park, numerous natural attractions including the dolphins at Monkey Mia and the 110 km Shell Beach, and one of Australia’s best diving and fishing destinations, all showcased by the Shark Bay Fishing Fiesta.

Hosted by the Shark Bay Fishing Club Inc the weeklong event includes daily activities such as the fishing competition for adults and children, the daily commentary and information as fish are weighed-in, market days, a drink can regatta, street parade, decorated boat competition, auctions, movie nights, craft workshops, seniors luncheons, fireworks and nightly entertainment.

The 2013 entertainment line-up includes: Leather and Lace a Perth cover band and Outback Paddy - an Irish Aussie who will have you in stitches.

The Shark Bay Fishing Fiesta will suit beach, boat or jetty fishing and offers prizes in 17 Species Categories and 9 special categories.  

• Best Over-All Fisher
• Most Consistent Fisher
• Boat Prize for Most points (averaged) on a boat over the Fiesta Week
• Ladies Heaviest Fish
• Heaviest Fish of each day
• Children’s Jetty Competition - Sunday Only
• Bill Fish - catch & release so please take a photo with your registration tag
• Decorated Boat
• Drink Can Regatta

Great Fishing, Great prizes, Great entertainment, Daily weigh-in's, Fireworks, Markets, Bar facilities, Food and Auction.

The Shark Bay Fishing Fiesta is part of Gascoyne in May, a celebration of the wider Gascoyne region and includes The Burringurrah Festival of Fire, Gascoyne River Music Festival, Carnarvon TropiCOOL Festival, Ningaloo Whaleshark Festival and the Carnarfin Fishing Event.

Watch this space for the up and comming program!

(If you can't make it this year; our 2014 Dates are: May 10 - 16)

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Mildura Cup Carnival

What better way to catch up with friends and embrace the atmosphere of thoroughbred racing, than a day out over the Mildura Cup carnival.
Frocked up fillies, cashed up colts and hooves of thunder all add to one of country Victoria's finest racing carnival's!

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Brewarrina Patrons Cup Day Race Meeting

 Brewarrina 'Patrons Cup Day' Race Meeting

The race goers will again get to experience what is sure to be a memorable day of spectacular pageantry, stylish fashion, genuine hospitality and of course outback horseracing at its best. Everything that makes Brewarrina on of the most favoured outback race meetings.

There will be special guest judging fashions on the field, raffles, auctions, designer fashions and hat parades, lucky race book and a special pick-the-program competition. if that’s not enough to keep you entertained then just sit back, relax and capture the essence of an outback race meeting while indulging in prawns, oysters, marinated roo sticks or just the good ‘ole Aussie BBQ.

Friday, July 27, 2012

The Great Australian Outback Cattle Drive

(Please note: The organisers of the Great Australian Outback Cattle Drive have not committed to run this event for 2012 - this page will be updated as soon as new information is available).

The Great Australian Outback Cattle Drive is the ultimate Outback holiday. Climb into the saddle and herd cattle along one of Australia's most evocative stock trails, the Oodnadatta Track, passing through inspirational landscapes and collecting a swag of adventure stories along the way.

Each tour is four nights and five days long, with the campsite located on the biggest cattle station in the world - Anna Creek Station. Both experienced and weekend riders, even those who have never ridden before, can be a part of the adventure of The Great Australian Outback Cattle Drive.

Each night you’ll enjoy superb catering and unwind around a roaring campfire beneath a canopy of desert stars before retiring to a camp bed in a carpeted tent. Hot showers will be available to soak off the desert dust each evening.

Gather around the bar with your new friends over a cold drink where you can share your droving stories.

So if you’ve ever wanted to escape the city, let go of your nine-to-five existence and experience real adventure in true Australian style, The Great Australian Outback Cattle Drive is one journey you can’t afford to miss. It will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Saturday, October 4, 2014

Australian Camp Oven Festival - Millmerran 2014

Australian Camp oven Festival is on again in 2014

October 4th and 5th 2014

Millmerran, one hour south west of Toowoomba, swells five-fold for their biennual Australian Camp Oven Festival,the largest of its kind in Australia and an event not to be missed.

A homage to Australian Heritage, the Australian Camp Oven Festival, Millmerran is an opportunity to catch a snippet of a time gone by in rural Australia

The Australian Camp Oven Festival gives this quintessential piece of Australian Heritage new life to a new generation of Australians.

Thousands of caravans, motor homes, tents and trailers converge on the township of Millmerran to join this exciting outback event; and with the hot showers and clean amenities at the showgrounds, camping is suitable for everyone.

Throughout this laidback weekend visitors are spoilt for choice in entertainment with Poet Breakfasts each morning - enjoy your breakfast whilst listing to tales of the outback, damper throwing competitions, view the horse shoeing, sheep shearing demonstrations, billy boiling competitions or just sit back and enjoy the Country Music during the day and evening. 

Perhaps you might wish to wander amongst the dozens of stalls that sell an array of goods including food, (the campoven dinners are always popular) wine, clothes, leatherware,bric-a-brac, and assorted impliments.

Australian Living History is displayed with camp oven cooking competitions where contestants make meals over the weekend and are judged on them, the sound of old machinery chugging away in the nearby paddock and blacksmiths plying their trade.

Saturday night sees a popular band playing on the main stage and there is an opportunity to enjoy free impromptu walk-up entertainment at times during the weekend.