By Lucy Waldron
The Warwick Rodeo Queen Quest 2024 proved to be a remarkable week-long event, celebrating the dedication and talent of young women who embody the spirit of the rodeo and the values of community, sportsmanship, and rural life.
Tanya Roach, the Queen Quest organiser said the quest is a cherished tradition where we not only celebrate the skills and knowledge of our entrants, but also the values that the sports and rodeo and camp drafts represent—community, sportsmanship, and the enduring spirit of our rural way of life.
“The Queen, Princess, along with the other entrants, bridge the gap between the Warwick Show and Rodeo Society and the broader community. They are the faces of the event and are much more than just pretty faces on fast horses,” Tanya said.
“Each one of our entrants has worked hard in the lead-up to the quest and today showcases their abilities in leadership, general and rodeo knowledge, and their passion for this great sport and our event.”
2024 Tiny Tot Titles
The festivities began with the 2023 Mr and Miss Tiny Tot title holders, Braith and Isla, who shared their experiences. Braith fondly remembered the friendships made, while Isla delighted the audience by expressing her dreams of becoming a princess one day.
With no competitors in his category the 2024 Mr Tiny Tot title was awarded to Dustin, a charming five-year-old from Killarney. Dustin captivated the crowd with his love for horses, especially his trusty companion, Nugget. His excitement for rodeo week shone through as he will showcase his sash at local schools.
In the Miss Tiny Tot category, seven-year-old Katie and six-year-old Dolly charmed everyone present. Katie was named runner-up and Dolly was crowned 2024 Miss Tiny Tot, taking home a crown, sash, and a collection of gifts.
2024 Junior Cowgirl
The 2023 Junior Cowgirl Grace Muller reflected on her year before she crowned the next Junior Cowgirl.
“My entry was probably my favourite part of this week, as I got to ride around the back of the utes and see some neat people enjoying watching the rodeo. Handing out ribbons and wands to the rodeo winners was another exciting part of Rodeo Week,” Grace said.
The 2024 Junior Cowgirl title was awarded to Jayda Chevalley, an enthusiastic 11-year-old from Copmanhurst Public School, who has attended every Warwick Gold Cup Campdraft and Rodeo since birth.
Runner-up donors and the Junior Cowgirl Horsemanship title went to Bethany Mulcahy, a 12-year-old from Scot’s PGC who is passionate about competing and enjoys spending time with her family’s Angus stud.
Overall Fundraiser
Congratulations were also given to Caitlyn Rhodes, who was awarded the Overall Fundraiser title after raising an impressive $18,450.70, contributing to a total of over $50,000 raised by entrants this year.
Caitlyn thanked everyone who had been a part of her journey, donated and helped her raise the money and take home the title.
2024 Rodeo Princess
The 2024 Rodeo Princess went to Belle Meek, a student at Scots PGC whose love for horses began at seven years old when she first attended Warwick’s Pony Club.
When asked about her journey in the Queen Quest, Belle said, “I entered as a junior candidate in 2021 and had so much fun that I wanted to come back for more. It’s not about the title; it’s the memories you make and the people you meet that matter most.”
Her infectious enthusiasm for the Warwick Rodeo was evident as she described the event to those who may not have attended: “If you’ve never been to the Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft, you’re missing out! The atmosphere is great, with entertainment, rides, and competitors who are the best in the country.”
She aims to use her role as Princess to promote the beloved Warwick Rodeo and make lasting memories with her fellow competitors.
Caitlyn Rhodes, the 2024 runner-up, also made her mark on the night. At 16 years old and a student at Assumption College, Caitlyn shared her own journey into the competition.
“Melissa has been encouraging me to participate for about seven years, and I thought it was finally time to step out of my comfort zone, meet new people, and make new friends,” Caitlyn said.
2024 Rodeo Queen
The highlight of the evening was the crowning of the 2024 Warwick Rodeo Queen, Rae-Louise Wright, who also took home the Horsemanship title.
Rae-Louise, 24, recently completed her Bachelor of Business and Commerce and is a passionate participant in the local campdrafting community.
Rae-Louise shared her motivation for entering the Queen Quest.
“I decided to enter the Queen Quest this year to challenge myself and really kick myself out of my comfort zone.
“I think the Queen Quest is such an integral part of the Warwick Rodeo. Year after year, I’ve watched the entrants embody strength, elegance, and a true love for our community,” Rae-Louise said.
She will take over the roll of Jessie Nott in representing the Warwick Rodeo at home and abroad and she is looking forward to every second of it.
Shania Murphy was named the 2024 Warwick Rodeo Queen Runner-up. Shania, 27, a lifelong resident of Warwick, expressed her desire to be a role model for younger generations.
“I have been involved in the Warwick Rodeo Queen Quest in previous years with my last title being the 2014 Warwick Rodeo Princess Runner-up. Over the years, I have watched the younger generation idolising the Rodeo Queens, and it has been inspiring to become a role model for them,” Shania said.
Throughout rodeo week and after the girls will be walking around so be sure to stop them for a chat as the Quest is a true celebration of community and rodeo culture.
