Lawrence Rodeo organisers say they have an eye on succession as the club’s 40th anniversary approaches next year, following a successful event on Saturday.
After drizzly conditions in the morning, the sun came out at lunchtime for the town’s showpiece summer event, bringing the crowds with it.
Club president Steve Whitehead said organisers were pleased to see bigger numbers than usual entering the rodeo, reflecting an upsurge in interest in the sport more generally.
The club would celebrate its 40th anniversary next year, leading members to reflect on carrying the club forward into the future, Whitehead said.
"We’ve got a bit of succession planning going on in the club right now, so it’s heartening to see new competitors coming through.
"All clubs need to keep an eye on the future, and we want to take care to see Lawrence continues in good heart for the next 40 years."
Although some of the roughstock events were slightly down, due to injuries and attrition as the season progressed, the introduction of new events like breakaway roping was bringing new people into the sport, he said.
"Unfortunately we’ve had a couple of injuries in the early bull-riding rounds today, but we’ve got big numbers for events like the breakaway roping and barrel racing, and a packed programme for our spectators this afternoon.
"As always, the club, our sponsors and our competitors have pulled out all the stops, and we’re incredibly grateful for the efforts and contributions of everybody who helps put such a great event together."
