By Tania Phillips
Record numbers are expected for this week’s Terrequip Tannymorel Campdraft 12-13-14 April with competitors coming from throughout Queensland and Northern NSW.
Sponsorship Committee Ashleigh Roche, who’s family has a four generation tie to the event, said they were looking forward to a successful campdraft.
“We ended up with more nominations than we originally predicted,” she said.
“One of our cattle donors this year, after a great season, was able to give us more cattle to use so we’ve taken more nominations than we normally would and we still have quite a large waiting list.
“There are a lot of people still trying to get in which is great to see.
“We have people coming from the border – Northern NSW – out past Toowoomba- the Western Downs. There are quite a few visitors but we always try and make sure that our local competitors get in and get a run first because they’re the ones that support our community and the sponsors that are helping make our draft possible.”
They had predicted there would be close to 700 first round runs, a record amount of nominations in itself. However, Roche said there had been even more come in.
“We are probably close to 800 first round draft runs,” she said.
“It is definitely one of the biggest drafts we’ve ever held. It’s the first time having a two and a half day draft. Normally it’s just a Saturday-Sunday event but now we’re starting at lunch time on the Friday.
“I think a lot of local drafts are now starting on the Friday – there’s quite a large demand for them. It’s a growing sport that’s very popular and I think the amount of campdraft competitors means there is a real demand for more events. Everyone is really wanting to get in which is really good.”
She said campdraft was a real family event.
“You quite often see dad will compete in the open and the novice, the kids do the junior/juvenile and then mum, who has taken the break away while the kids are growing up, is now getting back takes part in the encouragement and maybe a maiden run as well,” Roche explained.
“It’s a full family event. I think too with our, having sporting events too draws a lot of families in. I know one family coming down from Beaudesert who really wanted to be here so their kids could do the afternoon sporting events plus the campdrafting and make a fun weekend of it.”
As well as the campdraft, the Tannymorel committee run a lot of the pony club events including barrel racing, bending, flag racing and keyhole.
“All of the classic pony club sort of events for the kids,” she said.
“We do try and hold that every year, it makes us a bit different from all the other drafts.”
It is a true family affair for the Roche family with a fourth generation now helping out with the event.
“My husband’s grandfather was one of the original committee members and then his dad got on board and now he and his sisters are on-board and our son helps as well over the weekend,” she said.
“He’s only four but he’s starting to get involved. Each draft, other than the kids, is a memorial campdraft and every year those families come along and you just keep seeing the generations staying involved. It’s quite a nice thing.”
This year will be the first time using the new cattle yards and cutout yard installed by Roche Welding and Fabrication- Warwick, with livestock and competitors safety at the highest importance.
“We are also excited to have the addition of the Mountain Made Tiny Homes Encouragement Campdraft, as well as the Jack and Jill Relay as part of our sporting events,” Roche said.
“We are also holding a raffle in conjunction with our event to raise funds in support of RACQ LifeFlight Rescue.”
