A new stockman's challenge for Gundagai NSW was a great success with the Battle of the 'Bidgee located at the showgrounds on the picturesque Murrumbidgee River flats over the weekend of October 12-14, 2012 . The best part of the weekend was seeing the friendly spirit of quiet co-operation in action between president Dan Lindley, vice president Brett Laney, their committee and team of volunteers. Everyone had their tasks to perform and impressed the public with the running of events and hospitality extended throughout the weekend. The bush festival is aimed at activities for all the family and it can only get bigger and better!
Winners of the Open Challenge are arguably the top five in the sport led by Scott Bandy the inaugural winner, then David Mitchell, Shane Cooper, Rob Bandy and Brad Pierce. In the Ladies Challenge Christy Connor won the title from Linda Cossor and Lorraine Dutton. Junior talent impressed with the top five being Cody Ballard, Cooper Thatcher, Aaron Hedger, Penny McIntosh and Ben Smart. Competitors were enthusiastic in their praise for the weekend of competition and the Gundagai spirit , promising to return next year.
A positive outcome for the sport of the stockman's challenge is that more rookies and juniors were encouraged to participate in the new Battle on the Bidgee. It was pleasing to see too that the organisers had activities for kids similar to the bush festivals of old such as gymkhana events and a junior whip crack for all ages - making it a family-friendly weekend. This is what some other challenge weekend programs need to incorporate- drawing extended family members.
Great people, good venue and a springtime of year for the Battle of the 'Bidgee!
