By Lucy Waldron
It is officially October, and you know what that means. The Akubras and bootleg jeans are dusted off because the Ariat Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft are right around the corner.
Another year even bigger than the one before and certainly one you do not want to miss. Let us tell you how to stay involved in every second of it.
This year’s rodeo will feature an exciting art union, with all proceeds going to the local charity Protea Place.
Participants will have the chance to win a staggering $35,000 in cash by drawing the winning horse and rider in the Gold Cup Final.
Each ticket for the art union will cost $20, and those who draw a horse in the final will win $500.
The organisers are proud of this initiative and hope to make it an annual event, with the goal of raising between $50,000 and $200,000 to support local charities and community groups.
Tickets for the art union can be purchased through the I Wanna Ticket platform or the rodeo’s official website.
In addition to the art union, the Warwick Rodeo the Warwick Rodeo offers an ultimate VIP Experience for spectators, providing a memorable rodeo extravaganza.
The package includes a tour of the rodeo chutes, a four-day event entry, and the chance to meet rodeo royalty and champions.
Guests can enjoy all-inclusive food, beer, and wine on the new VIP Deck, offering prime views of the rodeo and live bands.
VIPs also gain access to a behind-the-scenes chute viewing box for a guided tour with experienced cowboys, cowgirls, and the 2023 Rodeo Queens.
Priced at $1000 per person, the six-hour VIP Experience includes a four-day event pass.
There will be an outstanding line-up of country music talent on offer.
Southbound and Charlie Fittler kick off the festivities on Thursday, followed by Casey Barnes and the Billy Gudgeon Band on Friday.
Saturday features a thrilling performance by Aria-nominated Brad Cox, joined by the local band with their signature 78 sound.
The upgraded 8.5 Scaffolding stage in the iconic Warwick Rodeo Arena enhances the music experience, allowing attendees to enjoy the performances from the grandstands or dance on the sand.
The main acts start at 9pm each night, creating a family-friendly environment until midnight for those under 18 accompanied by an adult. Guests over 18 can celebrate until 2am.
This year’s mascot at the Warwick Rodeo is yet to be named, and you have the chance to participate in the naming process. Join the colouring competition in the Warwick Today and Stanthorpe Today papers for a chance to name the mascot.
The mascot will soon be parading around town to build excitement. Keep an eye out, as your selected name might be the chosen one.
