Coonamble Rodeo and Campdraft - June 12th

This was my first Rodeo and I feel lucky to experience it in Australia. I went to the 2011 Landmark Coonamble Rodeo and Campdraft on one of the three day weekend event. It was so much fun and a great experience. I love the country atmosphere; I love it in the U.S and in Australia. Everyone is just more laid back, having fun and willing to help you out.


I went with Holly, who is the same age as me and started the day before I did, so it was also fun to spend time with her.


I felt very lame walking around, everyone else was riding their horses around… I need to get me a horse… or a pony :D


Americans

• They had the US and Canadian Flag up with the Australian flag :D
• We were talking with a few people and one of them told us we had to talk to this guy that just got back from America. I misheard him and thought he said he’s American. Once I heard him speak I realized what he said, though it was still exciting.
• It took a few people a while to pick up my accent! :P Wonder if I’m starting to sound like an aussie :D

Music

• Country music is the same. I heard a lot of songs that I knew… It's always fun when find similarities to back home.
• Yes the have played 'Party In the USA' here (not at the rodeo.. just in general. To answer a question from one of my friends)

Rodeo Events

• Bull Riding was awesome to watch except when the guys would fall or got hurt.
• I was taking videos of the events, when I rewatched some of the bull riders I reacted with “oooo ouch” like I did when I was there. Some of it was hard to watch.
• There were 8 year olds riding bull (smaller bulls, but still!) Those are some brave kids and parents!
• One guy fell and the bull stepped on his face… there was a lot of blood but he was okay and was later walking around with a bandage over his face with just one eye, his nose and mouth showing.
• Womens barrel racing! This was hard to video tape because I would find myself moving my head to watch rather than the camera! I really enjoyed this one, they were ridding really fast!
• Team roping. It was fun to watch because they make it look so easy. It’s hard enough to ride and control a horse but to use the rope too! That takes skills.
• Campdraft. This is the traditional and one of the oldests events. It is not as exciting and entertaining as the other events but you can tell it still takes a lot of skills and I found it enjoyable to watch.

I have to say again that this was such a great experience! Everyone was helpful and we got some great pictures and videos! I want to go again, for the whole weekend! :)