History & Tradition of the Mareeba Rodeo

The first Affiliated Mareeba Rodeo was held in July 1949. A Committee was formed by members of the R.S.S.A.I.L.A and the Q.A.T.B. to raise funds for both groups. First President was Alan Butler (R.S.L) and first Secretary was Norm Parker (Ambulance).

A lot of sweat was lost by the pioneers of the Mareeba Rodeo to provide facilities such as stockyards, chutes, temporary announcers stand, some seating and part of an arena fence for the first Rodeo.

The initial Secretary's office was a large marquee and the balance of the arena fence was made up of early model motor cars (tourers) being parked side by side in a semi-circle.

The grounds, being the "new" showgrounds, later to be known as Davies Park, were under the control of the local Council who provided toilet facilities, water supply, some materials for yards and seating and shifted the old grandstand from the first showground.

Mareeba District Rodeo Associa