What’s happening?
Tickets are officially on sale for the 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere and a cornerstone of Outback Queensland’s event calendar. From Friday, August 8 to Sunday, August 10, Buchanan Park will explode with three action-packed days of rodeo competition, live music, and community pride. The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, now in their fourth year, will be held on Sunday morning before the thrilling Open Finals, setting the stage for an unforgettable finale.
Country music favourite Luke Geiger—a longtime friend of the rodeo—will also return to perform on both Friday and Saturday night, adding even more energy to the already electric atmosphere.
Why it matters
More than just a sport, the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is a celebration of rural heritage, regional resilience, and national pride. It shines a spotlight on elite-level rodeo athletes—men and women, juniors and veterans—and offers a growing platform for Indigenous riders, whose participation brings culture, diversity, and pride to the arena.
As Community Board Chair Mark ‘Tommo’ Thompson explained, “Australian rodeo riders are among the best in the world, and with a growing number of juniors and female competitors, the future of the sport is brighter than ever. This year marks the 66th Mount Isa Rodeo, and once again, we will crown champions, create legends, and bring the Outback together in a celebration of skill, tradition, and pure adrenaline. And Australian rodeo FANS are absolutely THE BEST in the world!”
Local Impact
With tens of thousands expected to descend on Mount Isa, the rodeo generates serious economic benefits. From accommodation providers and fuel stops, to cafés, tour operators, and local retailers, nearly every sector of the community sees a boost.
The event also cements Mount Isa’s reputation as a key destination for domestic tourism and Outback experience. “We know it’s a bit of a trip to get to Mount Isa,” said Thompson, “but we guarantee travellers and fans the best experience. There’s nowhere like Outback Queensland and there’s nothing like the famous Mount Isa Mines Rodeo – so, saddle up everyone!”
By the numbers
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Daily ticket prices have been cut, with adults at $50, pensioners at $35, and kids (8–17) at just $20. Children seven and under enter free.
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The new Family Day Pass ($120 for two adults and three kids) and Family Three Day Pass ($300) make attending affordable for all sizes of households.
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Adult Three Day Passes cost $120, while pensioner Three Day Passes are $90.
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Camping is back in a big way: choose a three-day unpowered site for $200, five-day unpowered site for $300, or a five-day powered site for $350.
Zoom In
The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, proudly supported by the Queensland Government, have become an integral part of rodeo weekend. Held on Sunday morning, the event will showcase emerging and established Indigenous talent in the arena, adding a powerful cultural and sporting element to the already vibrant weekend.
Backed by Tourism and Events Queensland, the broader Mount Isa Rodeo Festival creates an immersive experience with live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a celebration of the rich culture of the Outback.
Zoom Out
This event is not only the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s one of the most prestigious in the world. Riders travel from across Australia and abroad to compete for coveted buckles and a place in rodeo history. The dust, adrenaline, and spirit of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo represent everything unique and celebrated about regional Queensland life.
As Tourism and Events Queensland noted, the rodeo is a cornerstone of Outback tourism and trade, injecting millions into the economy and strengthening the region’s future.
What to look for next
Expect more entertainment announcements, rider profiles, and travel deals in the lead-up to the rodeo weekend. Follow along and stay updated via:
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Instagram: bit.ly/2025_Mount_Isa_Mines_Rodeo_Tickets_I
Whether you’re a seasoned rodeo fan or a first-time visitor, this year’s rodeo promises to be the most unforgettable red-dirt weekend yet.
