Cowgirls With Wings Set to Soar Over Mount Isa’s Red Dirt

The legendary red dirt of Buchanan Park is prepared for a spectacular shake-up this August as organisers of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, presented by Akubra, confirm that Dayna Bradshaw will join the 2026 line-up. Performing under the moniker Cowgirls With Wings, Bradshaw is set to make a massive 2,000 kilometre trek from her home near Inverell in regional New South Wales to the heart of the Gulf Country. Bringing five performance horses and a very special Cowgoose in tow, her appearance marks a significant addition to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest rodeo event.

As Australia’s only female trick rider performing a full American-style spectacle, Bradshaw is known for executing backbends, handstands, and complex gymnastic stunts while her horses travel at a full gallop. For the seasoned entertainer, who has spent a decade thrilling audiences across the country, performing at Mount Isa is the culmination of a long held ambition. She noted that stepping into the famous arena will be a career highlight, having dreamed of the opportunity since she was 16 years old. Accompanied by her partner, Bradshaw will showcase the talents of five champion horses named Macey, Piper, Magic, Dodge, and the star of the show, Bambi. The troupe promises to deliver technical tricks that have not been witnessed in Australian arenas for many years.

While the high-speed stunts provide the adrenaline, a feathered friend is expected to provide the charm. Popcorn the Roman Goose, affectionately known as the Cowgoose, will accompany the team. Dressed in full cowgoose regalia, Popcorn will be a focal point for families during meet and greet sessions scheduled to take place after the performances.

The 2026 program, running from 7 to 9 August, is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant in the history of the event, which first began in 1959. The news of Bradshaw’s arrival follows the announcement that Townsville’s own Barnyard Band will headline the entertainment across the Friday and Saturday nights. Led by award winning showman Laurence Sorbello and featuring the fiddle brilliance of Katisha Adelaide, the five piece band will deliver a concert spectacular paying homage to country music greats alongside their own new releases. Tickets for the three day event at the Buchanan Park Events Complex are currently on sale as the city prepares for the raw power of bull riding, barrel racing, and the unique theatrical flair of this year’s newest star.

2026 MOUNT ISA MINES RODEO presented by Akubra

Fri 7th August – Sun 9th August 2026

Buchanan Park Events Complex, George St & Sutton St, Mount Isa QLD 4825

Website and TICKETS ON SALE NOW: www.mountisarodeo.com.au

Daily Entry Passes – Friday 7th August, Saturday 8th August and Sunday 9 August 2026

Adult  (18+) $50

Pensioner   $35

Child (8-17 years)  $20

Child  (0-7) free

Family Day Pass  (2 adults + 3 children) $120 children must be accompanied by an adult

Three Day Rodeo Passes

Adult  (18+) $120; Pensioner  $90 and Family $300 all Children must be accompanied by an adult

Camping – same prices as 2025

  • Three day unpowered – ($200 per site) up to 4 people, then additional charge per person
  • Five day unpowered – ($300 per site) up to 4 people, then additional charge per person

The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.