Mareeba Rodeo
Running since 1949, the Mareeba Rodeo is one of the biggest and longest-running rodeos in North Queensland. Held annually in July at Kerribee Park, it draws thousands of spectators and competitors for two days of world-class rodeo action, family entertainment, and outback culture.
Jul 11-12
2026 Dates
Friday & Saturday
1949
Running Since
75+ years of rodeo
Kerribee Park
Venue
Mareeba
On-site
Camping
From Wednesday
Rodeo Events
The Mareeba Rodeo features a full program of professional and amateur rodeo events sanctioned by the Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association. Events attract competitors from across Queensland and interstate, with significant prize money across all categories.
Open Bull Ride
The headline event - professional bull riders attempt to stay on bucking bulls for 8 seconds. High prize money attracts top national competitors.
Saddle Bronc
Traditional rodeo event where riders must stay on a bucking horse using a modified saddle. Judged on style and control.
Bareback Bronc
Riders hold on with one hand to a rigging (leather handhold) while the horse bucks. Considered one of the toughest rodeo events.
Barrel Racing
High-speed horse event where riders navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. Popular women's event with millisecond margins.
Rope & Tie
Riders chase, rope, and tie a calf in the fastest time. Tests horsemanship, roping skill, and ground speed.
Steer Wrestling
Riders leap from horseback onto a running steer and wrestle it to the ground. Tests strength, timing, and courage.
Junior Events
Includes junior bull ride, junior barrel racing, and poddy ride for the youngest competitors. Future champions start here.
Rodeo Queen Competition
Annual competition for horsemanship, community involvement, and public speaking. The Rodeo Queen represents the event throughout the year.
Downtown Parade & Entertainment
The rodeo weekend kicks off with the famous Downtown Parade through Byrnes Street on Friday morning. Floats, horses, vintage vehicles, school groups, and community organisations parade through the main street while thousands line the footpaths. The parade captures the community spirit of Mareeba and is a highlight of the year.
Beyond the arena events, the rodeo grounds feature live music, food stalls serving everything from steak sandwiches to multicultural cuisine, bar facilities, carnival rides, market stalls, and a kids' zone with entertainment and activities. Friday night features live bands and a party atmosphere that runs late into the evening.
Camping
On-site camping is available at Kerribee Park from the Wednesday before the rodeo. The camping area fills up quickly - arrive early for the best spots. Facilities include portable toilets and water. BYO everything else.
- • Gates open Wednesday for camping setup
- • Powered sites limited - book early
- • Unpowered camping included with multi-day pass
- • Generators permitted in designated areas
- • No glass containers in camping area
Tickets & Entry
Tickets are available online through the Mareeba Rodeo website or at the gate. Early bird prices are usually available in the months leading up to the event. Family passes offer good value.
- • Adult day pass: approx. $30-40
- • Weekend pass: approx. $50-60
- • Children under 12: reduced price
- • Family pass available
- • VIP and corporate packages available
Prices are approximate. Check the official Mareeba Rodeo website for current pricing.
Getting There
Kerribee Park is located on the outskirts of Mareeba, approximately 60 km west of Cairns via the Kennedy Highway (about 50 minutes drive). Parking is available at the grounds with overflow parking nearby. Shuttle services may operate from Cairns during the event.
Accommodation Tips
Mareeba accommodation books out months in advance for rodeo weekend. Book early at local motels, or consider staying in Atherton (25 min), Kuranda (30 min), or Cairns (50 min). On-site camping is the most popular option for the full rodeo experience.