General News
8 July, 2025
Australia's best back in Cloncurry for Challenge
It's a great opportunity to see some of the most talented riders and horses in the nation.
Some of the nation’s best riders are in the North West this week for the Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge, an event renowned as being one of the greatest displays of horsemanship in Australia.
Beginning today, the Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge and Campdraft is a hallmark seven-day event for the Australian equine industry.
Renowned as the ultimate stage for young horses, the event has become a living tribute to Australian stockmen and women since being established in 1984 as a memorial for highly respected local grazier and horseman Reg Brown.
President Vince Wall said he was excited for Cloncurry to once again host the unique equine event, which is the longest running stockman’s challenge in Australia.
“We are looking forward to our 42nd event this year being the best yet. A comprehensive campdraft and challenge program will get underway from Tuesday, along with a rodeo, live entertainment, food, bar and trade stalls to enjoy over the seven days,” he said.
Thousands of vendors, competitors and spectators from across Australia are set to visit the Cloncurry Equestrian Centre, where there will be high stakes competition across two arenas.
“The nominations accepted for the campdraft and challenge events indicate that the quality of competition this year will be higher than ever,” Mr Wall said.
“This year, there is over $160,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, including the iconic Quart Pot trophy for the 2025 Curley Cattle Transport Classic Stockman’s Challenge winner.”
The Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge competition requires horse and rider to complete two demonstrations.
The first is the “dry” section – a set pattern performed before two judges, featuring manoeuvres such as flying changes, roll backs, spins and stops.
This pattern is designed to display the horse’s athleticism, ability and trainability, whilst exhibiting the rider’s horsemanship.
The second demonstration is again before two judges, though this time horse and rider combinations are required to work cattle in a manner similar to a campdraft.
The grand final will be held on Saturday afternoon following the grand parade and presentation of the finalists.
The event wraps up on Sunday at the completion of campdraft events. Entry is free.