Glencore Mount Isa Mines celebrates the 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo

Glencore Mount Isa Mines is proud to continue its Foundational Partnership with the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, an iconic event that has been a highlight of the region for 66 years. The 2025 Rodeo brought a fresh look and feel, with enhanced experiences for attendees and a renewed focus on community engagement, blending tradition with innovation to make this year’s event truly memorable.

Maryann Wipaki, General Manager Health, Safety, Environment and Community, captured the spirit of the week in her remarks at Friday’s Opening Ceremony:

“What a privilege it is to stand here with you at the opening of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, a truly iconic event, not only for our town but for all of northwest Queensland and beyond. As someone who grew up just down the road in Cloncurry, this week has always held a special place in my heart. And to now be here representing Mount Isa Mines, a proud foundation partner of this incredible event for an unbelievable 66 years, it means more than I can put into words.”

Troy Wilson, Glencore Metals Australia Interim Chief Operating Officer, continued:

“And for me, having spent many years working and living right here in Mount Isa, I can tell you: there’s nothing quite like Rodeo week. It’s electric. The people, the spirit, the energy - it brings the whole town to life. This is more than just a sporting event. It’s a celebration of who we are: resilient, resourceful, and deeply connected to the land and to one another.”

As a Foundational Partner, Glencore Mount Isa Mines is proud to support the rodeo not just as a sponsor, but as a community partner. The event embodies the values we hold dear: teamwork, resilience, and community connection. By supporting initiatives like the rodeo, we help ensure this cherished tradition continues to grow, while celebrating the unique identity, talent, and spirit of Mount Isa and northwest Queensland.

Maryann reflected on the rodeo’s importance, particularly in challenging times:

“We know these are challenging times for many, across our region, across industries and within our own business. But we believe it’s important not to let those hard times overshadow what this week represents. Because this Rodeo, and this community, deserve to be celebrated. Mount Isa Mines is incredibly proud to once again sponsor this event and help keep this tradition alive. We’re proud to help shine a national spotlight on Mount Isa and the northwest, and to welcome visitors from all over the country to experience what makes this place so special.”

A highlight of the 2025 rodeo is its new community-led board, which has returned the event to local hands and reconnected it with its original spirit. This structure restores the rodeo to its roots as a classic country event, celebrating the rich outback traditions, culture and sporting excellence that have made it an iconic part of life in Mount Isa and northwest Queensland for generations. By empowering the community to lead and shape the rodeo, the event not only honours its heritage but also ensures it continues to thrive as a cornerstone of local pride and celebration.

Troy also acknowledged the board’s leadership:

“Taking on an event of this scale is no small task, and we’re genuinely excited to support them on this journey. Their vision, leadership, and commitment to the future of the rodeo will ensure it remains a cornerstone of this community for years to come.”

The 2025 rodeo also celebrated both the competitors and the wider community. Troy acknowledged the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, noting that the competitors are truly the stars of the show and that the event comes to life each year thanks to the community’s passion, pride, and enduring spirit. He encouraged all attendees, whether it was their first rodeo or their fiftieth, to embrace the energy of the week, enjoy the festivities, stay safe, and help make it another unforgettable celebration in Mount Isa.

The 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with energy, passion and pride, and Glencore Mount Isa Mines is honoured to play a part in keeping this tradition alive for generations to come.