Families off to rodeo
First Bulls ’n’ Barrels Bonanza draws big crowds in Theodore
AS THE saying goes, it can be a long time between drinks, and for Theodore that certainly was the case when it came to hosting a local rodeo.
For the first time in almost two decades the Theodore Early Childhood Centre (TECCA) partnered up with Xtreme 1 Servo to host the first Bulls ’n’ Barrels Bonanza. Joining forces with a host of other outstanding sponsors they were able to provide the town with an action-packed night.
Saturday afternoon saw Theodore’s population grow considerably with a staggering 1200 people coming through the gates at the local showgrounds. Bulls and barrels were on display to help raise much-needed funds for the kindergarten and daycare centre.
The childcare centre is an essential facility for Theodore residents and relies on fundraising efforts to keep the doors open. The TECCA committee consists of a group of local mothers, who have been organising the event for the past seven months.
TECCA president Jane Conway, Waynoc, Theodore, was thrilled at how well the event was received.
“I am so proud of the committee for pulling together such an amazing night out for the town,” said Mrs Conway.
“It has been a lot of organising over the last seven months but it was well worth it after hearing such positive feedback from everyone.”
The inaugural event enticed eighty-eight riders to come to town and showcase their bull-riding and barrel-racing skills. Nebo cowboy Justin Paton took out the major prize of $3000 for the Open Bull Ride.
The main attraction on the night was the celebrity steer ride where six local participants put their lives on the line for the kids and to help raise money in the Calcutta.
Fearless Theodore residents Adrian Anderson, Russell Brunton, Beau Surawski, Jo Streeter and Susan Koop were joined by mystery celebrity, Jim Weimar, who is Theodore’s police sergeant.
Sgt Weimar wanted to promote community spirit and help give back to the Theodore Early Childhood Centre.
“It was great to see such a well-supported community event with everyone on their best behavior having a good time,” he said.
“I was happy to support the event by participating in the steer ride to raise money for a fantastic community organisation.”
The competitive six created a fierce bidding war and between them raised an impressive $6500, with over $5000 going directly to the centre.
With an estimation of $20,000 being raised, the TECCA committee can look forward to improving the outside area for the kids, as well as putting some of the funds towards ongoing maintenance costs.
For what is hoped to become an annual event for Theodore, the TECCA ladies are already in planning stages for next year’s rodeo.
To show your support or receive sponsorship information for the 2018 event, search for Theodore’s Xtreme 1 Servo Bulls & Barrels Bonanza on Facebook.