FOLLOWING a lengthy hiatus, the Berriwillock Rodeo is poised to make a triumphant return.
Two weeks out from the event, organisers Jeremy Watson and Max Nunn said the return marked a new chapter, as dedicated community members and sponsors joined to breathe new life into the celebration.
With renewed enthusiasm and a big vision for the future, Mr Nunn said the small but dedicated committee was committed to preserving the town’s assets and heritage and had worked tirelessly behind the scenes for the past 18 months to ensure the event’s success.
“Our pre-sales have been going really well and it’s shaping up to be a big weekend,” Mr Nunn said.
“We’ve had great support and ticket sales from all over the state, including Melbourne, Bendigo, Mildura and Echuca.”
Mr Nunn said the event would bring back a sense of nostalgia and community spirit which was essential in ensuring that small rural communities continued to thrive, despite population decline.
“We want to make this big,” Mr Nunn said.
“We’re doing it for the kids, the future of the town. We want to provide something for them, otherwise these small towns will fold.”
Mr Watson, a third-generation farmer, said the last rodeo was held in 1990, and while it was before his time, he’s heard many stories about the event and was looking forward to staging it once again.
“Our motto is making memories, and that’s what we hope to achieve,” he said.
“We want to get the town moving again and bring the whole community together.”
He said the event’s comeback was testament to the resilience and unity of the community, providing an opportunity to refurbish some of the town’s ageing infrastructure, once again putting it to good use.
“The recreational reserve hasn’t been used since we had our last footy game here in 2015,” Mr Watson said.
“Everyone is getting excited about the rodeo and taking pride in cleaning up our facilities, and the recreational reserve is the perfect spot for it.”
As the event makes its much-anticipated return, Mr Watson said there was a renewed sense of optimism and economic benefit to the wider district.
“Everyone is starting to feel the benefit of the event,” Mr Watson said, noting the economic benefits extended well beyond the Berriwillock township, with accommodation houses, petrol stations and eateries set to benefit from the influx of people.
Renowned Australian country singer, James Blundell is set to headline the event.
With free camping facilities on site, attendees can look forward to a wide range of activities and attractions for the whole family.
The rodeo will feature different events, including the open bull ride, open bareback, open saddle bronc and women’s barrel race.
“We’re hoping to have a big show, and will have food trucks, children’s entertainment, live bands and onsite camping,” Mr Watson said.
The event will take place on Saturday, March 1, and tickets are available online.
