What’s happening?
The 2025 PBR Australia Monster Energy Origin Series kicked off in Newcastle on 8 May with a high-octane showdown between Queensland and New South Wales. Queensland claimed Origin I with 578.75 points to NSW’s 418.5 in a night packed with elite rides, new talent, and regional pride.
Why it Matters
The Origin Series is one of the most anticipated highlights in Australian bull riding, modelled after rugby league’s State of Origin. It’s a platform for showcasing state talent and propelling riders onto the national and global stage — and Queensland’s dominance continues to shape the sport’s future.
By the Numbers
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578.75: Queensland’s winning score at Origin I
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168 points: Matching aggregate scores for debutants Thomas Triplett (QLD) and Luan Crystian Camara (NSW)
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$150,000: Total prize pool across the three Origin events
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$30,000: Bonus for the Cowboy of Origin
Zoom in
Thomas Triplett from Bungundarra near Rockhampton, just 18 years old, was the breakout star of the night. In his first-ever Origin appearance, he delivered two clean, high-scoring rides that saw him tied for the event win and jump from 8th to 3rd on the national leaderboard.
He joins a strong Central Queensland presence in the Maroons lineup, including Macaulie Leather (Calliope), Ben Bode (Calliope), Caiden Sandilands (Rockhampton), and Nash Mellors (Gracemere).
Zoom out
Since its 2019 inception, Queensland has claimed all five series titles and 10 out of 12 matches. This year’s Origin Series features three events — Newcastle, Brisbane (7 June), and Sydney (5 July) — where riders compete for state supremacy and individual glory.
Local Impact
Triplett’s stellar debut puts Rockhampton’s bull riding talent in the national spotlight. With multiple Maroons hailing from the region, Central Queensland remains a key breeding ground for Australia’s toughest cowboys. “Forget quiet debuts — they came out swinging,” said PBR Australia Managing Director Glen Young.
What to look for next
All eyes now turn to Brisbane on 7 June, where New South Wales will fight to keep the series alive and Queensland will ride to defend their turf.
