“An NRA event like this hasn’t been held in Tenterfield for many years,” Show Society secretary Kim Rhodes said.

“It’s another opportunity to get visitors to town.

“If it’s a success it could become an annual thing, so we’re encouraging everyone to get behind it.”

Mrs Rhodes said the Show Society has received some great sponsorship from local businesses, but always welcomes more. Retail outlets in the central business district are being encouraged to stay open late on Saturday and be open Sunday to give all the visitors an opportunity to shop locally.

There are 15 events ranging from breakaway roping, rope-and-tie and poddy, steer and bull rides for juniors, to barrel racing, team roping, bareback and saddle riding and even steer wrestling, culminating in the open bull ride. Each event will feature the 12 finalists who have secured their position in the final through their performance on the circuit. Any competitor in the NRA standings is eligible to enter, with the top 12 point scorers in each event elected for the finals.

Round 2 of the NRA’s national finals rodeo will be in Toowoomba the following week, Saturday November 19 at the Clive Berghofer Events Centre. Round 3 is at the Caboolture Showgrounds on Saturday, November 26.

Tenterfield mayor Peter Petty – who is closely associated with the Show Society and in horse competition circles – nominated Tenterfield when an opportunity to host the event arose, and was successful in winning the bid. Tenterfield Shire Council has come on board to help with promoting the event and providing some sponsorship.

With 180 competitors and their support teams in town, it should be a busy weekend for local businesses. Mrs Rhodes is also encouraging locals to get along to the showground to enjoy some top grade rodeo action. The events begin at 3pm, finishing around 9pm with live music and a bar and barbecue operating.