1,800 kilometres might separate them on the map, but in the rodeo world it's nothing between friends.
The enduring bond between Australia's most iconic rodeos continues in 2026, with 2025 Warwick Rodeo Queen and Horsemanship winner Cheyenne Neylon continuing the tradition of traveling north to the legendary Mount Isa Mines Rodeo this August.
Rodeo has shaped Cheyenne's life her for as long as she can remember, both inside and outside the arena, with a deep family legacy that runs through every part of her story.
"When I was barely old enough to walk, my parents already had me on a horse," Cheyenne 'Chey' said. "My father and three brothers were bull riders, and my husband is a saddle bronc rider, it's just always been part of who we are."
While she has stepped back from competition in recent years, Chey previously competed in barrel racing and continues to stay closely connected to the rodeo community through her family, her work, and her advocacy.
Outside the arena, she runs a mobile auto electrical business with her husband, alongside a busy life filled with baking, cooking, restoring and building creative projects, and spending time with family.
This year marks her first visit to Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, a milestone moment she says has long been on her bucket list. "I haven't been to Mount Isa before, so I'm incredibly excited to finally experience it," she said. "It's such an iconic event. I can't wait to ride in the arena, learn its history, and meet new people." Cheyenne says she is also passionate about using her platform to encourage others to chase big dreams. "No matter how big your dream is, make sure you chase it," she said.
A former 2023 National Rodeo Association Rodeo Queen, Cheyenne is also co-founder of Buck Off Melanoma, an initiative close to her heart.
Her journey reflects the enduring connection between Australia's rodeo communities and the shared spirit that keeps them united across vast distances.
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
ABOUT Mount Isa Mines Rodeo – it is the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the biggest in the world. It's where champions return to defend their titles, rising stars carve their names into history, and eight electrifying seconds can feel like an eternity.
For three adrenaline-fueled days, Mount Isa in Outback Queensland comes alive with the raw power of bull riding, bronc busting, barrel racing, roping and more, as the world's toughest cowboys and cowgirls battle for some of the most coveted buckles in rodeo. Since 1959, the red dust of Mount Isa has risen beneath hooves, boots, and the roar of the crowd. The rodeo is the heartbeat of Outback Queensland, and an event that welcomes riders and fans from all over the globe.
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.
