A crowd of thousands were greeted by bucking bulls and crazy cowboys at Mandurah’s Hall Park for the third annual Ash Black Memorial Rodeo on Saturday evening.
More than 2500 people (including 152 competitors) flocked to the event, which pays tribute to Ash Black, a young Peel-region cowboy who tragically took his own life at the age of 19.
It also raises vital awareness for mental health, with Ash’s mother and event organiser Tammy using the rodeo to help others who might be suffering.
“I was rapt with how it all went,” Tammy said.
“We were really happy with the turnout and we also had people come up and chat to us about their own battles with mental health issues, and that’s what the event is all about.
“It was a really positive day.”
This was the first year the annual event had been held in Mandurah, following on from its opening two years in Waroona.
Mayor Rhys Williams opened proceedings addressing the crowd, with Tammy labeling the new venue a success.
“I thought it went really well and to see the crowd embrace the event was amazing,” she said.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
