Student Bonnie McLean, who has been taking part in the rodeo scene for most of her life, said this was her first time competing as a rodeo queen and was ecstatic to get the win.
“I made such good friends with all the other girls. I would’ve been happy with whoever won, but I’m over the moon I won,” she said.
Bonnie and three other finalists travelled to the Gold Coast where they competed in various events over a rigorous seven-day schedule.
The ladies were judged on their speech skills, personality, appearance and horsemanship, with Bonnie eventually coming out on top.
She now has a big year ahead of her, where she will be appearing at various fundraisers and events including the National Rodeo Council of Australia (NRCA) finals which will be held in Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia and Victoria.
Bonnie said she was excited about using her new position to help bring rural communities together and spread the word of rodeo across Australia.
“Rodeo is such a great community that provides so many opportunities and is a great support system for young and older people,” she said.
“I’ve had a lot of people within the rodeo community that have helped me in various ways over the years.
“Being the face of the NRCA now, I will work to bring in more women and people into the sport I love.’’
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