After a year’s break, the much-loved iconic Narrandera Rodeo is gearing up for a big comeback in 2026. 

Outgoing Narrandera Rodeo President Adam Levett said earlier this year that despite strong community support, the committee simply couldn’t muster enough hands on deck to form a working committee and made the unfortunate decision to go into recess for this year.  

Mr Levett said the decision was not made in haste. 

When all positions on the committee were vacated when the group stood down, it opened the door for some new faces and fresh ideas - the first step in trying to revive the event and getting back in the saddle. 

Following a 12-month hiatus, a new committee was elected at the AGM on 3 June and planning is already galloping ahead for the event’s return on Saturday, 28 February, 2026. 

The new Narrandera Rodeo President Alarna Vrieling said it was “all action stations” for the newly elected committee in its preparation for next year’s big event. 

Alarna said she was thrilled to see the rodeo make its long-awaited return. 

“It has a phenomenal history and a personal one for me dating back to my grandfather RTJ (Bob) Smith’s era,” she said. 

“We have a great committee, a perfect mix of old-timers who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, we have some riders who are actively competing and keep us current and a stack of enthusiastic locals from around the district.” 

The 2026 event will mark a milestone - Narrandera’s 71st rodeo, continuing a proud local tradition that stretches back generations. 

Crowds can expect plenty of thrills and top-class action. 

A cornerstone event on the town’s calendar, the rodeo has attracted record crowds from across the Riverina and beyond in recent years.  

Next year it will feature all the popular events such as bull riding, broncs, barrel racing, team roping and junior events showcasing the next generation of up and coming local riders. 

“And having Pro Rodeo status, we draw competitors from all over the country,” Alarna said. 

“Our stock will again be provided by contractors Garry and Anna McPhee who have a reputation among competitors and spectators for consistently providing top-quality stock and putting on a great show.” 

Local support has already started rolling in with people eager to sponsor the event, but more sponsors would be greeted with open arms. 

“Consistent with the generosity of Narrandera and surrounding townships, people are digging deep to help make this event a big success,” Alarna said. 

“We welcome any new sponsors and offer several packages for them to choose from. 
“Also, anyone who would like to have a stall, please reach out to one of the committee members to discuss.” 

With a passionate new team taking the reins and plenty of community support, the Narrandera Rodeo looks set to come back bigger and better than ever. 

The new-look committee members include: 

  • Alarna Vrieling (President)  

  • Blue Absolom (Senior Vice-president)  

  • Corey Heath (Junior Vice President)  

  • Joyleen Hutchins (Secretary)  

  • Bronwen Rees (Treasurer)  

  • Melanie Drysdale (Event Co-ordinator)  

  • Karen Eurell (Canteen Co-ordinator)  

  • Neta Close (Raffle Co-ordinator).