Newsroom

November 27, 2024

Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Leader and Member for Traeger, Robbie Katter, has called for the administrators of the iconic Mount Isa Rodeo to shift its focus back to being a successful community-driven event, celebrating the unique spirit of our region, rather than being forced back to an unnecessary attempt at an international spectacle.

“It’s pretty obvious we need a radical change in direction,” Mr Katter said.

“The rodeo doesn’t need to be a massive international event to be successful.

“The people of Mount Isa have the passion, skills, and spirit to run this event.”

Concerns have been raised about the push for a return to a large-scale international event solely to address outstanding financial debts. Mr Katter argues this approach is misguided.

“Welcoming back community members and local businesses to run and govern the rodeo is the obvious, and frankly only sustainable solution,” he said.

A troubling stigma has also emerged suggesting locals are unfit to manage the event or serve on its board. Mr Katter has strongly rejected this notion, emphasising the unique understanding and passion that Mount Isa locals bring.

“The rodeo board and those running the event on the ground should be locals,” he said.

“They are the ones who share the true Mount Isa spirit and understand the event’s cultural significance.

“Mount Isa and the North West deserve to see the rodeo in good hands and heading in the right direction.

“The rodeo, at its roots, has always been about community. Under the right local leadership, it can thrive once again as a proud representation of our town’s spirit,” the KAP Leader said.