DUNGOG Rodeo Committee has handed out $21,000 to representatives of local service and sporting organisations during a presentation barbecue at the Dungog Showground on Sunday 20 July.
The community organisations to share in the profits of this year’s rodeo include the Dungog, Clarence Town, Wallarobba and Bendolba fire brigades; Dungog Palliative Care volunteers; the Dungog Football Club; the cricket club; the pony club; and the Men’s Shed.
Because of wet weather and muddy grounds, takings for the Easter 2025 Rodeo were somewhat down on the previous year, but the fact that so many people braved the elements to attend speaks volumes for the family event’s popularity.
The Dungog Rodeo is highly-regarded on the circuit and draws thousands of spectators, including from Sydney and interstate.
Competitors also travel long distances to take part.
As far as possible, the Rodeo Committee purchases all its resources and supplies from local businesses.
“Ninety-nine percent of the money to run the rodeo is spent locally, while all the funds raised go to help local people,” Dungog Rodeo Committee President Bill Rumbel said.
While an earlier annual rodeo dates back to the end of World War II, the current rodeo was established in 1972.
The event has run almost continuously since then, only missing one year due to drought, according to Vice President David Hudson.
During those 53 years, the emphasis has been on giving back to the local community.
The current organisers are committed to maintaining the aim of putting on an exceptional show to raise funds and support local people, businesses and community groups into the future.
By Lisa WISEMAN
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