Normanton Rodeo School kids thrive at Mt Isa Rodeo

Held in August of each year and attracting around 750 competitors from around the world, the Mt Isa Rodeo is the largest and richest of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

But for a handful of its youngest competitors, the rodeo is about so much more than just the notoriously huge prize pool.

Students of the Delta Downs Rodeo School were given the opportunity to travel to Mt Isa to participate earlier this year,

The Rodeo school and follow-up rodeo club aims to provide Normanton kids with the opportunity to experience life in the cattle industry.

It is part of an Indigenous Advancement Strategy (IAS) funded Adventure Based Learning Program delivered by Bynoe Community Advancement Cooperative Society Ltd in Normanton Queensland.

The program uses experiential learning and the excitement of trying something new to help young people recognize their strengths and positive qualities.

More than that, the kids are able to interact with positive role models with outstanding careers.

The program has encouraged students who were previously disengaged to take pride in their achievements, feel a sense of control over what they are learning and to make plans for their futures.

One such student, who had previously struggled with and avoided writing, marked the end of the school by writing a letter about his program mentor, Teo.

His letter outlined his gratitude, and his plans to do the best he can in the rodeo. The Bynoe team said they are proud of all the participants, who did a great job at rodeo school and are continuing to work hard at achieving their educational and personal goals.

The Adventure Based Learning Program has seen strong positive outcomes for young people in Normanton, and supports a range of activities and programs including the rodeo school, Traditional Indigenous Sports Olympic Games, On Country Camps, before school Kick Start programs and youth leadership programs.