Crisafulli Government backs iconic Mount Isa Rodeo to deliver record economic, tourism benefits

• Iconic Mount Isa Rodeo set to be bigger and better than ever following Crisafulli Government cash injection.
• Rodeo to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for North West Queensland.
• Economic benefits to region set to top $10 million.  

This weekend’s iconic Mount Isa Rodeo will be bigger and better than ever following a cash injection from the Crisafulli Government in late 2024, under a new partnership with the Mount Isa City Council.  

When the Mount Isa Rodeo was placed into voluntary administration in October 2024, the Crisafulli Government stepped in with additional funding through the Mount Isa City Council to support the ongoing viability of the Rodeo.  

This year’s Rodeo, which will be held from August 8 to 10 at Buchanan Park, is set to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for North West Queensland which would not have been possible without the emergency grant. 

The Mount Isa Rodeo was first held in 1959 with this year’s event set to top $10 million in regional economic benefits.  

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, joined by Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell, will attend the official opening of this year’s Rodeo on Saturday.  

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the Crisafulli Government is proud to support the Mount Isa Rodeo.  

“This Crisafulli Government’s funding support and new partnership has given the iconic Mount Isa Rodeo financial security to be able to ride into its 66th year with this year’s event expected to be bigger and better than ever,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said. 

“We are proud to be able to officially open this year’s event with the more than 22,000 attendees and visitors set to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for the region and support local jobs. 

“The Crisafulli Government has been able to breathe new life back into the Mount Isa Rodeo, which was on the brink of collapse, and send a strong message to Queenslanders that the Government backs outback tourism.” 

Minister for Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said the locally run event was a hit with both locals and visitors.  

“Iconic outback events like the Mount Isa Rodeo are major tourism drivers, with people travelling from around the world and the rest of the country to join in the unique atmosphere,” said Minister Powell.  

“Our visionary 20-year tourism plan, Destination 2045, includes a special focus on attracting and continuing events like these, so people have even more reasons to visit our amazing state.” 

Minister for Rural and Regional Development Dale Last said backing the Mount Isa Rodeo is part of the Crisafulli Government’s broader plan to drive regional development. 

“The Mount Isa Rodeo is a showcase of the region’s strength, heritage and future,” Minister Last said. 

“When the Rodeo was on the ropes, we hopped in the saddle, grabbed the reins and delivered the support the community needed. 

“Our support is a vote of confidence in Mount Isa’s future, with a clear message that we’re digging in the spurs and backing the regions.”