The Southern Downs Regional Council is pleased to announce that the Rodeo Street Parade is back in 2017, after being cancelled last year by the council, citing a lack of community support.
The Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft attract crowds in excess of 30,000 people with competitors and horses travelling from every mainland state to compete, even some from overseas.
The council’s manager of economic development and tourism, Scott Templeman, said the parade was an important part of the whole rodeo experience and a chance for individuals, community groups, schools and businesses to celebrate the rodeo while showcasing themselves, their cause or their organisation, all in the name of fun.
“The theme for the parade is Denim and Diamonds, which is also the theme for the Rodeo Queen Quest,” he said.
“The parade will feature the rodeo queens and some professional rodeo competitors.”
Portfolio councillor for events, sport and Recreation Yve Stocks said feedback from the community supported the return of the parade.
“I encourage all individuals, groups and organisations to think about how they can participate with creativity, fun and colour,” she said.
“I’m confident that the Warwick community will support and enjoy the parade,” Cr Stocks said.
The date of the parade is Saturday 28 October, commencing at 10am.
Float categories include:
* Best in theme;
* School exhibit;
* Business and commercial;
* Club, sport or other organisation; and
* Decorated bike (children).
Some $500 in prize money will be awarded to winners of every category except the decorated bike category, which will receive $100.
Interested organisations should fill in a registration form and return with a $10 cash entry fee to the Warwick Visitor Information Centre by 5pm Friday 20 October.
The route of the parade will be along Palmerin Street from Victoria Street to Fitzroy Street and back. Anyone considering entering the parade will need to be able to turn at the Fitzroy Street roundabout.
Float entry forms are available at the Warwick Visitor Information Centre or on the council’s website at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au.
