General News
2 July, 2025
Broncos great named as Indigenous Rodeo ambassador
Sam Thaiday will have a big presence at this year's Mount Isa Mines Rodeo and Indigenous Rodeo Championships.
He's tackled some of the biggest challenges on the footy field – now he’s swapping his boots for red-dust covered cowboy boots.
Rugby league legend and proud Indigenous man Sam Thaiday has been named the inaugural Ambassador for the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, adding star power and deep community pride to Australia’s most significant celebration of Indigenous rodeo talent and culture.
This year, the Indigenous Rodeo Championships will be held on Sunday. August 10 – ahead of the open finals – making for an action-packed finale to the three legendary days of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo.
Thaiday will be at the rodeo for the full weekend, lending his support to Indigenous riders, meeting rodeo fans and families and soaking up the best of Outback Queensland.
One of Australia’s most recognisable sports stars, Thaiday brings his passion, influence, and deep connection to community to the event, celebrating the Indigenous contribution to Australia’s rodeo culture.
Best known for his 304-game career with the Broncos, Thaiday represented Queensland in 29 State of Origins and Australia in 34 internationals, including the victorious 2013 Rugby League World Cup team.
“As the first-ever ambassador for the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, I’m incredibly proud to stand alongside the incredible Indigenous cowboys, cowgirls, and communities who make this event so special,” Thaiday said.
“Rodeo is about grit, heart, and heritage, and the Indigenous Rodeo Championships showcases the best of that spirit.”
Mount Isa Mines Rodeo chair Mark Thompson said the appointment of the rugby league great was a huge coup.
“Sam is a hero both on the field and off it,” Thommo said.
“He embodies the values of community, pathways and respect that the Indigenous Rodeo Championships represent.
“Having him as our inaugural ambassador will further inspire this – and the next – generation of Indigenous rodeo stars and help shine a spotlight on the extraordinary talent and history of Indigenous Australians in rodeo.”