60th Mount Isa Rodeo delivers for Outback Queensland tourism

New data released today shows visitors spent more than $11 million at the iconic Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo this year.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the event had delivered a major tourism windfall for Outback Queensland thanks to its milestone Diamond Jubilee celebrations which saw the event extended for an extra day.

“This year’s Isa Rodeo saw overnight visitor expenditure and overall visitor nights increase by a record 23 and 20 per cent respectively,” Ms Jones said.

“The event also drew more than 17,400 unique attendees, an increase of 18 per cent from the 2017 event.

“This is a great boost to the outback economy and was no doubt supported by the event’s extensive entertainment program which for the first time featured a 60^th Rodeo Rock Bash headlined by Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes.”

Ms Jones said the  2018 Isa Rodeo also included an international challenge for the first time featuring North American competitors and the official opening of the Mount Isa Rodeo Hall of Fame.

“Caravan parks were overflowing, ‘Swag City’ bookings doubled on last year’s event and Platinum and Gold reserved seating was sold out for weeks ahead of the milestone event,” she said.

“The success of the Diamond Jubilee Isa Rodeo proves that we have the winning formula when it comes to staging events that play to Queensland’s strengths.

“Events like this are crucial in driving economic benefits for regional communities like Mount Isa and growing Outback Queensland’s $573 million tourism industry.

“We’re investing more in outback tourism than any government in the state’s history because we’re committed to diversifying the economy and creating the jobs of the future in regional Queensland.”

Mount Isa Mines Rodeo General Manager Natalie Flecker said the event organising committee was extremely grateful for the support of the State Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, naming rights sponsor Mount Isa Mines, other valued sponsors, hundreds of volunteers who helped stage the event annually, competitors and rodeo fans.

“We are absolutely committed to delivering an Outback Queensland experience that is outstanding in every way - from the world-class competition in the arena to the whole festival of entertainment that supports the rodeo,” Ms Flecker said.

“We are thrilled the event is going from strength to strength. In 2019, we will mark 60 years since the Isa Rodeo’s inception and we hope to welcome even more visitors to experience this very special event."

Outback Queensland Tourism Association General Manager Peter Homan said the Mount Isa Rodeo was constantly evolving to meet its customers’ expectations.

“These results show what can be achieved when providing a world-class event that improves every year,” Mr Homan said.

ENDS

Media contact: 0419 620 447