Hard riding in the heat at Katamatite

By Geoff Adams

Jan 6, 2025

In classic style, first division saddle bronc rider Tristan Halden competed at the Katamatite Rodeo on Saturday night. Photo by Megan Fisher

A crowd of thousands was treated to some spectacular riding at the Katamatite Rodeo, held on Saturday, January 4.

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The afternoon temperature touched 37°C, which may have had an impact on crowd numbers, and organisers delayed the start by an hour to benefit from the cooler evening.

Despite the heat, about 2900 people passed through the gates and the event is expected to generate a profit, which will be distributed to the local community by the Lions club, which managed the rodeo.

Rodeo committee chair Andrew Moffatt is in awe of the riders.

“I don’t know how they do it,” Mr Moffatt said.

“If it was me, I wouldn’t make it out of the chute!“

A total of 320 competitors vied for prizes in 15 sections, including roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, bareback riding and bull riding — with just one rider requiring first aid treatment.

After last year’s event, the Lions club distributed about $20,000 to organisations including the CFA, the primary school and the Katamatite cemetery trust.