The recent Baradine campdraft event attracted more than one hundred competitors over two days and featured a range of top-quality local and visiting riders.

The Baradine Campdraft Association hosted the popular annual competition at the Baradine Showgrounds on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September.

Campdraft president Roy Tanner said the event was a huge success and saw riders come in throughout the north-west region including Dubbo, Tamworth, Walgett and Narrabri.

“We had 600 runs over the two days, which was much better than expected,” Mr Tanner said. “Overall the registrations were not as high as in previous years but we put this down to the rise in fuel prices and the fact that we are going into tough times again, with some farmers already feeding stock.

“In fact, at one point we were not sure we would even be able to hold the event as it is totally dependent on stock availability. But we ended up having plenty of stock for the runs, even having more cattle than we could use, which was great.”

Mr Tanner said he wanted to give a special mention to the event sponsors and volunteers who are the backbone of running such an event.

“We had a great number of sponsors so we had prizes for every placing,” Mr Tanner added. “I would like to make special mention of Ross and Tanya Wills from Glen Park Angus and Alec Wheeler, Barwon Station, for supporting the event by providing cattle for the weekend. Also, Robert and Nic Dewson for carting the stock to the showground.

“It is a big call to ask breeders to lend their stock for an event like this. All the cattle were strong, fast and in good condition considering the current season. We are very lucky to get such support.”

PHOTO: Winners of the Baradine Progress Association Juvenile Campdraft trophy; Arki Shearer, Taihla Clarke, Riley Day and Max Shearer. (image: E.Tanner)

Mr Tanner added that the campdraft is a great way for the horse community to connect and celebrate the sport in competition together.

“The competition was of a high quality; congratulations go to all participants,” concluded Mr Tanner. “Campdrafting continues to be a popular competitor and spectator sport although dry times tend to slow things down. Depending on the forecast drought conditions, we are planning to hold the event next year.

“We have a small but very dedicated committee of volunteers who make an outstanding effort to get the competition up and running every year.”