Held Easter Saturday, April 19, it is an Australian Pro Rodeo registered event that will draw the best professional riders and competitors nationwide.
They will compete in open and second division bull riding, bareback bronc and saddle bronc competitions.
Other competition sections include the rope and tie, steer wrestling, team roping, breakaway roping and barrel racing.
Another popular event at the Deniliquin Rodeo is the Pub Steer Ride Challenge, where amateur riders represent local sponsor venues.
The professional and amateur riders will be paired with stock from legendary rodeo stock contractor Gary McPhee.
New this year will be an event for the future stars of the rodeo.
A ‘mini bulls’ section for children ages 10-14 will be added to the line-up in 2025.
Event organisers say it’s become an exciting part of a lot of rodeos around the country, and ensures the youngest members of the rodeo circuit families have their chance to shine.
Also in the spotlight at Deniliquin will be one of Australia’s most famous stockmen, Lachie Cossor.
Known as the Outback Stockman, he has been a prominent figure at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach, Queensland, where he presents the Outback Stockman Show from April to October. In the other months he takes his show on the road.
Cossor’s show is a tribute to the skills of past and present stockmen, offering a true depiction of the unique Australian character.
The performance combines humour, education, and exceptional horsemanship, providing audiences with a glimpse into outback life, both past and present.
Cossor, who was once a rodeo competitor himself, said audience participation is often encouraged, enhancing the interactive experience.
“There’s a bit of slapstick and crowd participation; rodeos always have a good atmosphere,” he said.
“I am a former bronc rider myself, and I won Victorian titles and even competed overseas before I was injured.”
Food stalls, trade sites, around the grounds entertainment and a licensed bar (no BYO allowed) add to the evening.
There will also be live music from Deniliquin-based singer-songwriter Zara Lindeman.
The family friendly entertainment gets underway in the afternoon with heats and live music, with the twilight action then kicking off from about 5pm.
The Deniliquin Rodeo Under the Stars is hosted at the Deniliquin Rodeo Arena, off Racecourse Rd, Deniliquin.
For information and a link for ticket sales via ticketbo.com.au, head to the Deniliquin Rodeo Facebook page.
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