we create the kind of memories that stay with you long after the dust settles.
Our story
The Robe River Rodeo & Campdraft is an iconic Western Australian event, proudly running since 1995. Held just outside the Pilbara town of Pannawonica, the rodeo draws competitors and spectators from across Australia for days filled with top-quality competition, red dirt underfoot and a strong sense of community.
In 2025, the committee proudly celebrated its 30th birthday — a milestone that reflects just how far the event has come. What began as a small, one-day rodeo on the Pannawonica Speedway Track has grown into a major multi-day event, supported by purpose-built grounds that have continued to evolve.
One of the original founder Don Inall has watched the rodeo grow and change over the past 30 years. The idea itself was born in 1995 over a thought-provoking beer, when Ron Inall and Caryn Inall, along with two other Pannawonica locals, first floated the notion of a hometown rodeo. With just nine weeks to pull it together, the group buckled down and delivered a successful first show.
What started as a plan to have a bit of fun and raise some money for charity has since become an essential part of the town’s identity — and a fixture on the Western Australian social calendar. Today, funds raised through the event are reinvested directly back into the local community and nominated charities, ensuring the Robe River Rodeo & Campdraft continues to give back to the place and people that made it possible.
Driven by passion
Driven by passion and pride, our community rallies together to create an unforgettable five-day event. From one of the biggest campdraft’s in the region to a high-energy two-day rodeo, this is a celebration built by locals, for locals — powered by volunteers, family, mates and a shared love of country and community. What unfolds over these five days is more than a competition; it’s connection, tradition and a whole lot of red dirt spirit.
Meet the Founders
Meet the Presidents
President- Marty
A Pannawonica local for a few years now, Marty is a true community man with a passion for bringing people together and showcasing the very best our town has to offer. Whether it's organising events, lending a hand, or rallying a team, Marty is always at the centre of making things happen.
There's one thing everyone knows about Marty though—his dog sits firmly at the top of the priority list!
Known for his leadership, Marty can confidently manage a team of 40 people without breaking a sweat. But when it comes to climbing on the back of a bull? Well… that's still a work in progress.
Deep down, Marty has one big dream: to finally nod his head, open the gate, and become a real bull rider. Until then, we'll keep the chaps ready and the ambulance on standby!
Vice President - Reg
Born and bred in Pannawonica, Reg is a true local cowboy with rodeo running through his veins. Known for his determination, grit and love of the sport, Reg spent years chasing bulls around arenas across the region before an injury brought his riding career to a halt.
A familiar face throughout both the rodeo and station worlds, Reg has built a reputation as a hardworking, respected stockman and competitor who is always willing to lend a hand. While time away from the arena has been challenging, the passion for bull riding never left.
Now, with his sights set on a return to competition, Reg is hoping to climb back into the chutes this year and remind everyone why he's been a crowd favourite for so many years.
