Originating from the work practices of cattle herding, the now competitive and exhibition sport of rodeo is said to embody ‘…the frontier spirit as manifested through the aggressive and exploitative conquest of the West…the reordering of nature according to the dictates of this ethos’ which ‘…reenacts the taming process whereby the wild is brought under control.’

For the ultimate road trip and a taste of the above, head midwest to Meekatharra.

From Friday September 30 to Monday October 3, this little mining and pastoral town which lies 765km from Perth down the Great Northern Highway, welcomes the annual Meeka Outback Festival.

It opens Friday night at the Town Oval with music, market and food stalls, rides and fireworks. While most of that will appeal to families, Saturday sees a morning float parade liven up the main street before an afternoon of classic country horse racing and evening entertainment at the Meekatharra Race Club. The real and more serious action begins on Sunday when the cowgirls and cowboys ride on in, battling it out for big prize money in the Rodeofest Meekatharra, a full points rodeo event.

This year’s festival welcomes everything from the open bull ride, saddle bronc, bareback, rope and tie, team roping and steer wrestling to ladies breakaway roping and steer undecorating as well as novice bull ride, juvenile bull and barrel competitions. With thrills and spills expected, locals and visitors can then spruce up for the Outback Ball with live band and DJ.

But if heat, red dust and livestock don’t do it for you, the town, which recently underwent a facelift has plenty more on offer. For the active and ambitious, the Meeka Rangelands Discovery Trail, equipped with interpretative signs and directional dials, takes you around the Meekatharra Creek while the Meeka Lookout provides stunning town views. For something more relaxed, take a picnic at Peace Gorge, home to some unique granite rock formations.

And in true country style, don’t bunk down anywhere else but the local caravan park.

What: Meeka Outback Festival When: Friday September 30th – Monday October 3rd. Where: Various locations around Meekatharra Details: meekashire.wa.gov.au

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