Gallery: Record crowd backs Nambour Rodeo
The Ray White Nambour Rodeo has recorded its biggest crowd on record, with 4415 people through the gates for the annual event at Nambour Showgrounds on Saturday, May 9.
The strong turnout capped a major day of family entertainment and professional rodeo action, with crowds gathering from late morning before the main event program later in the day.
The 2026 rodeo featured a full line-up of classic events including bull ride, bareback ride, rope and tie, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing and breakaway roping.
Families also enjoyed off-arena entertainment including a rock-climbing wall, face painting, live entertainment, food vendors, drinks and a fully licensed bar, with the event continuing its reputation as one of Nambour’s major community drawcards.
Launched by Ray White Nambour with the aim of creating an affordable family event while showcasing the heart of the hinterland, the rodeo has raised almost $300,000 for local not-for-profit organisations since its inception only five years ago – a remarkable achievement for a grassroots event.
The Nambour Tramway Board, which had been closely involved in the event in recent years, took over this year as organisers.
Board Chairman Greg Rogerson said the board was delighted with the result. “I checked with the Board and we’re happy to register that the Rodeo was a huge success with a 4,415 gate sale figure, the biggest on record,” Mr Rogerson said.
“We wish to thank the local and hinterland community and those people who came from far and wide for attending a great family friendly rodeo.
“Your continued patronage mandates a bigger and better 2027 Ray White Nambour Rodeo.”
The event also continued its support for local community organisations, including Help Us Spread Kindness, a group of local mums from Yandina and North Arm who champion youth wellbeing and anti-bullying initiatives.
Men’s Shed volunteers assisted with parking, with proceeds from $5 vehicle parking going towards their community work.
Ray White Nambour owner Matt O’Grady said, ahead of the event, the team was proud to be involved with “one of the biggest and most loved events on the Sunshine Coast”.
