Thrills and spills-Stanthorpe Rodeo

There will be action aplenty this weekend at the Stanthorpe Showground as the Bulls, Broncs and Cowboys and Cowgirls hit town for the 2011 Stanthorpe Rodeo.
Gates open at 2pm and the action hots up at 3pm with the first event. The 2011 Rodeo Stanthorpe presented by the Agricultural Society and National Rodeo Association will feature 14 big events.
Highlight of the rodeo is sure to be the appearance of this year’s bounty bull “Hurricane” the NRA 2008 Bucking Bull of the Year. He has not had a qualified score on him for two years. He has only been ridden for eight seconds, nine times out of over 300 buckouts and will provide plenty of thrills for riders and spectators. The committee has again secured additional sponsorship for the Open Bull Ride, kindly donated by the Country Club Hotel Motel, Stanthorpe and one lucky Open Bull Ride competitor will be eligible to win this bounty.
The program will also include “Mighty Mouse”, 2009 NRA Bucking Bull of the Year and “Tom Home” their 2010 NRA Bucking Horse of the Year.
Organisers say they are pleased with the nominations. Dean Porter, 2010 NRA Steer Wrestling Champion and 2010 NRA Barrel Racing Champion, Cheyenne Whitwell, will both be competing.
The Stanthorpe Rodeo committee has again been well supported by many local businesses who are providing chute and event sponsorship.
Bar and barbecue will be operating but patrons are reminded this is a licensed event and eskies are not permitted. ID will be required for armband security. Popular pair Johnny Rogers and Heather Herman will provide plenty of entertainment when things wrap up in the main ring.