There were two events on that I would imagine would have caused some people – especially from Cloncurry some angst as to which to go to.

Being unable to choose myself, I thought it only proper I attend both.

The first was the annual Dajarra Rodeo in Cloncurry Shire’s second largest settlement. 

The town may be a lot quieter since its halcyon days as the western Queensland cattle railhead with the railway now ripped up and the former station now a relaxing spot for travellers heading between the desert and the Gulf.

But Dajarra has had a boost this year with the new Mount Isa AFL team, the Dajarra Rhinos named for the town and it also comes to life every September for the running of the annual rodeo and campdraft.

I made it down there last year and was keen to head the 150km again this year so set off early on Saturday morning.

All the local stations were represented and there was a good buzz around the grounds despite the ongoing drought.

I caught some of the campdrafting action and the barrel racing but unfortunately had to be on my way before the roughstock hit the arena.

I had to be back in Isa for 4pm for the Mount Isa Rugby League grand final.

Cloncurry were there too, their football team the Eagles were minor premiers but had to qualify for the final the long way after losing a semi final.

The fans of the green machine were there in force, in fact I reckon they were in a majority at Alec Inch Oval.

But they had to face off the team that beat them in the semis – Townies – and my prediction before the game was that the Mount Isa side would them off again by eight points.

I would have been happy to eat my words and Cloncurry looked good when they chalked up the opening points.

But Town quickly got into their groove and by half time were over 20 points clear.

The reigning premiers went on to win 50-8 and though Curry fans went home disappointed they were a great credit to their town. Congrats to both teams on a great season – Derek Barry