Kirwan Gardens 3
Kirwan Gardens 3
Your home away from home in the beautiful Snowy Mountains
Fun at Jindabyne Rodeo
We have had the absolute pleasure of attending the Jindabyne Rodeo, officially called Jindabyne, Man from Snowy River, Rodeo, for the past 3 years running. The event has been running since 1943 and was originally held in the old Jindabyne town ship.
The rodeo is now held at John Connor’s Sports Ground which is very conveniently located at the end of our street and a quick 5-minute walk away. You can actually visit the rodeo area including the holding pens at any time as they are permanently located to the side of the oval.
Our first Jindabyne rodeo was in 2021 and we were also in the beginning stages of our property renovation. During the day we went between the rodeo and the property and it was a very enjoyable day. You are given a wrist band upon paying for your ticket which allows you to go in and out as you need which is great on hot days.
Our kids especially love the barrel racers and loved seeing these young kids getting out there and giving it their all. It is amazing what they can do on a horse!
Other events include the steer ride, saddle bronc, bareback and of course the iconic bull ride. Gates open at 11am and thes event usually begin around 12pm with the junior competitors but be sure to check online for the Order of Events. Depending on how many riders they have will depend on how late the event runs.
There are stall holders and a licensed bar plus food options. Get your tickets at the gate on entry. Previous years it has been $20 per adult, $10 per child or $50 for a family of 2adults & 2kids.


The Weather
I must say we’ve been especially lucky these last 3 years with amazing sunny weather – maybe even a little too sunny. The 2023 event bought the sunshine to town after some very questionable rainy days prior with a somewhat wet area for the riders. I highly recommend you take a hat and plenty of water & sunscreen. Your best bet is to cover up! Every year you can tell who has attended the rodeo in the days after, because the 3rd degree sunburn is an absolute give-away.
In 2023 we took it a step further and actually took towels with us to cover our legs & arms. Some people take umbrellas but you’ll just need to make sure you stay to the back of the crowds so that you do not obstruct the view of others.
Seating
Last year we opted to take our camp chairs which made it much easier on the back. There is very limited seating with only about 7 or so “grand stand” seats so you’ll need to get in early or BYOC (bring your own chair). Of course if all else fails bring a picnic blanket and get comfy on the grass.
I must say we have had some issues with people STANDING in front of us while we are sitting on picnic rugs on the ground or on chairs, we ended up having to move. A little courtesy goes a long way to avoid any issues – everyone has paid for their ticket so be aware if you are blocking someone’s view.
We did find that some of the better vantage points at the front of the arena fence line were taken up by bins & recycle bags for bottles & cans (which obviously is needed) but hopefully the organisers for 2024 can move these to a more suitable spot to allow visitors to take advantage of these spots to see the action.

This little girl stole the show in 2023 as she made her way around the arena – although her pony was not keen on the mud! Her mum stepped in and helped get her around the arena and the crowd loved it. If you know her name, please let me know so I can give her some credit – and a copy of the photo.
Finally...
I hope that gives a little insight into Jindabyne Rodeo and some tips for making it a fun day out for the whole family. Although our property is usually in use by us over the Christmas/New Years break, be sure to check out other options nearby. Keep us in mind for your next getaway across the rest of the year.