Moruya Rodeo's bucking bulls return this New Year's Day – but don't ride your luck without a booking

The Moruya Rodeos held on New Year’s Day over the past two years have proved to be so popular, they sold out.

As 4000 spectators can fit into the Moruya Showground for the event, this proves just how much enthusiasm both locals and tourists have for the show.

“I think it’s terrific, the people love it,” Moruya Rodeo Association president Andrew Mehl said when asked what he thought about the recent sellouts.

“It’s a great event for the community and hopefully we will continue to run it for many years to come.”

He said it had been running for more than half a century and would be back on New Year’s Day 2025.

A big message this time is that if you want to watch the cowboys compete in the ring, it’s best to pre-book your ticket online.

This is because when some people arrived at the gates hoping to buy tickets there over the past couple of years, they were unable to gain entry as it had been sold out.

Mr Mehl said the limit of 4000 spectators was to ensure everyone was able to see the competitors and “get an enjoyable day”.

“It’s best to book and then we will know how many we’ve sold,” he said.

“It’s the best way for people to get a spot.”

Despite the rodeo’s popularity, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing in recent years. In 2023, Eurobodalla Shire Council had to decide whether or not to renew its licence.

While an emotional and polarised debate followed, councillors did vote to renew the licence for another five years.

Mr Mehl was sure the crowds would love the 2025 rodeo.

“There are people there cheering on the hill, they love it so much,” he said.

The 2025 event will see bull riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc and bareback rodeo events, with a prize pool of more than $25,000 to be won on the day.

Big Al the rodeo clown will return with his classic antics and there will be sideshow games.

Market stalls will have clothing and western wear, while there will be plenty of hot food, ice-cream trucks, face painting and a new bar.

The Moruya Rodeo will be held on New Year’s Day, 1 January, 2025, at the Moruya Showgrounds.

Gates open at 1 pm, while the main event is from 4 pm and finishes around 9:30 pm.

Ticket prices are $30 for adults and $15 for children, with kids under nine admitted free.

To buy tickets online and for more details, click this link.

Tickets will be available at the gate only if the rodeo is not sold out.