BENDEMEER Rugby League’s Scott Saunders may be able to handle himself against rivals on the paddock but it’s when he hits the rodeo arena that he cops the thumbs down.
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The “humorous big bugger” is noted for his crowd-pleasing antics in the Celebrity Barrel Race at the village’s annual rodeo, according to publicity officer Adam Newman.
“And he did it again – fell off the horse as he finished his run. He comes each year I think just to entertain the crowd. He’s a humorous big bugger, just doesn’t know how to ride a horse,” Newman joked.
The popular barrel pits the Bendemeer Mountain Men against the southern Kootingal Roosters.
“The footballers and crowd all love it. It’s like a bushfire – you can’t put it out.”
And despite Saunders’ effort to stay in the saddle and help teammates Dale Jenner and Shane Rule to victory, the Roosters’ Lad Jones, Anthony (Blue) Smith and Dan Greenwood ruled the roost.
Saturday evening’s crowd was treated to top bucking stock provided by seven contractors which, Newman said, was virtually “unheard of in a small-town rodeo”.
“We had a top string of horses and bulls for the rough riding.”
Saddler Danny Swadling won the feature Pete Jenner Memorial Saddlebronc.
And in the adjoining arena, 1100 head of cattle were put through their paces in the three-day campdraft.
“They were all locally donated cattle. They’re the heroes of rodeo, the cattle donors. Without them we just couldn’t hold the successful draft we do. One place donated 500 head,” Newman said.