The history of the rodeo can be traced back to the mid 1970s when a steering committee was formed by the Stroud Show committee and Stroud Lions Club.

Down the track the show and the Lions dissolved their association and a new stand-alone committee was formed.

With limited funds available organisers were forced to borrow chutes and panels for a portable set-up. Then in 2000, the committee decided to build an ‘all purpose’ arena with grandstands and a hill to view the action. 

Change has also occurred in the campdraft arena.

A new camp and yards has led to the removal of the original wooden rodeo chutes. The state-of-the-art facilities have allowed Stroud to host both the Australian championships as well as the NSW rodeo championships. 

The committee has also been approached by the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association to host the national campdraft finals. 

Stroud Rodeo Association is a not-for-profit organisation that works hard to raise and donate money to worthwhile charities and local organisations. 

Over the years the association has raised thousands of dollars for the Hunter Medical Research Institute and the Stroud Lodge, just to name a few. 

To celebrate the 40th anniversary milestone the association is organising a reunion dinner at the Stroud Country Club on July 19. The evening starts at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. 

The cost is $20 for adults and $12 for children under 12 years.

All past and present cattle donors, volunteer workers, competitors or sponsors are invited to attend (with photos and stories) to help celebrate.

To RSVP phone or SMS Jessica on 0428 220 882 or David 0428 680 683 before July 5.