Goroke prepares for bumper rodeo

The countdown is on for the first Goroke Apex Rodeo in three years as organisers prepare to welcome thousands of people to the Goroke Showground.

Bulls, broncos and rodeo fans will flock to the West Wimmera town for one of its biggest community events on Saturday.

Goroke Apex Club president Oliver Gabbe said the day would be fun for everyone.

“We’ve seen heaps of interest from people from everywhere,” he said.

“Lots of hard work has gone into this event and everything is organised, so we’re hoping the rain holds off and it doesn’t deter people from coming along for a great day.”

The club ran a rodeo in 2019 for the first time since 1994 and again in 2020 – weeks before the first Victorian COVID-19 lockdown.

The most recent rodeo had a crowd of more than 2500 people.

Mr Gabbe said there would be something for the whole family at the rodeo.

“We have kids’ entertainment with a jumping castle and petting zoo,” he said.

“There will also be a mechanical bull for anyone willing to test their skills on the day.

“We have a band sorted, Last Stand, who will be performing into the night and we hope people get around them as well.”

Woodall Rodeo Promotions are operating the rodeo element of the day with bull riding, bareback, saddle bronc and barrel racing events.

“Big thanks to Woodall Rodeo Promotions, who will bring the bulls, and no doubt, good numbers of rodeo crew and fans for the day,” Mr Gabbe said.

“We also have to thank our sponsors because without them the event wouldn’t be able to go ahead. Special mention to Albacutya Gypsum and Limestone for their generous donation as our major sponsor.”

Mr Gabbe said there were plenty of food vans to cater for everyone throughout the afternoon and night.

“Tickets will be available at the gate, which opens from 3pm,” he said.

“There is also free camping next to the showground and the Goroke Lions Club will be putting on a barbecue breakfast on Sunday morning.

“If you’re looking for something to do on February 25, we’d love to see you at the Goroke rodeo.”

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER FUN DAY OUT: Goroke Apex Club members, back from left, Steve Rich, Vaughan Isaacson, Caleb Batson, Tom Bourchier and Jarred Lowe, and front, Oliver Gabbe, Paul Light, Ben Light and Travis Crawford are ready for the club’s rodeo to return to the Goroke Showground on Saturday night.