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WHY THE COOLGARDIE RODEO & OUTBACK FESTIVAL IS A MUST-DO WEEKEND IN THE WILD WEST

  • Brian Westlake
  • Jul 29
  • 2 min read
Cowboys in colorful outfits stand beside horses on a red dirt arena. Flags wave in the background under a bright sky.

Suppose you’ve ever wanted to experience the true grit and heart of outback Australia. In that case, pencil in the 2025 Coolgardie Rodeo & Outback Festival — a must-do weekend where the red dirt flies, the music roars and the campfires crackle late into the night.


Held in the historic Goldfields town of Coolgardie, just a half-hour from Kalgoorlie and around six hours from Perth, this three-day festival (August 15–17) is one of those rare events that captures the raw, unfiltered soul of regional Australia.


Last year, more than 4500 people packed into this quiet town, and this year’s event is gearing up to be even bigger. Picture this: elite bull riders and barrel racers battling it out in the ring, families sharing yarns under vast open skies, and live music that’ll have your boots tapping well past sundown.


But don’t think it’s all dust and daredevils. This is a full-blown outback experience. Here’s what not to miss:


Top Festival Highlights


  • The Rodeo – Expect classic events like bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, with top riders from across the country.

  • WA Camp Oven & Slow Cook Championships – The bush cook-off you never knew you needed, with damper and stew battles that’ll leave you drooling.

  • Coolgardie Truck & Ute Muster – Chrome, horsepower and a healthy dose of Aussie pride on full display.

  • Live Music & Entertainment – Toe-tapping tunes and country jams keep the vibe rolling all weekend.

  • Best Dressed Competitions – From cowboy couture to laugh-out-loud larrikin looks, bring your best gear.

  • Family Fun – Helicopter joy flights, blacksmith demos, market stalls and kid-friendly action round out the weekend.


The Essentials tickets are available online only via outbackrodeos.com — no gate sales, so don’t leave it too late. Free on-site camping from Thursday night means you can arrive early, pitch your swag, and settle in under the stars.


The Vibe


Coolgardie isn’t just putting on a show — it’s throwing open its arms with a kind of rough-around-the-edges charm that feels refreshingly real.


This is where you’ll meet salt-of-the-earth locals, hear stories you’ll never forget, and maybe even leave with a bit of red dirt in your boots — and your heart.


So, saddle up and lock it in. Whether you’re chasing thrills, bush tucker, or just a proper yarn by the fire,



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