The cattle and horses may have been delayed by flooded roads, but even wet weather couldn’t dampen the excitement surrounding a unique junior rodeo clinic and alcohol diversion program held in Mataranka over the weekend.
Twenty three young people from Jilkminggan community took part in the event, which aimed to boost their confidence and skills in cattle handling, horse riding and junior rodeo events. The two-day program also included an important alcohol awareness and mental health theme, encouraging a healthy living approach.
Demonstrator bulls ‘Axle’ and ‘Mango’ were a hit with the participants, who were able to learn the finer points of rodeo riding on the modified 200 litre drums. After ‘registering’ for the rodeo the excited group also took part in a horse riding lesson and arena calf riding session.
There was a great response to the joint initiative between Roper Gulf Regional Council and Territory Rodeo Services, who provided both the livestock and expert advice on rider safety, rodeo technique and animal welfare. Instructors Tara and Jason Craigie also provided information about potential career paths within the local cattle industry.
The event was delivered through Council’s Alcohol and Volatile Substances Program with additional support from Jilkminggan School, the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association, Sunrise Health and St John’s Ambulance.
