And, it’s all roads lead to Murrurundi. 

The popular event this year celebrates 15 years in the community and is sure to be another huge success with two brand new grandstands having just been installed.

The upgrade is expected to provide covered seating to some 250 spectators, with thousands ready to flood through the gates from February 22 to 25.

The event sees some of the best stockmen and women converge on Murrurundi’s Rosedale Complex to vie for the title of ‘King of the Ranges’. 

Competitors will be put through the ropes in seven preliminary events including the Stockman’s Gear Check, Bareback Obstacle, Bareback Freestyle, Pack Horse and Stock Handling, Whip Crack Target and Freestyle, Horse Shoeing and Cross Country.

“The festival will again bring some of Australia’s top horse and rider combinations to Murrurundi, all hoping to take home a share of the $45,000 worth of prize money and trophies,” King of the Ranges president Earl Keller said.

“Good luck to all of our competitors and thank you for participating and demonstrating your amazing skills and knowledge during the challenge.”

The preliminary rounds commence on Friday from 7am and continue through to Saturday, wrapping up with the Cross Country at 3pm.

The weekend then culminates with action packed finals on Sunday starting at 11am with the Wild Horse Catch and Stocksaddle Buckjump as well as a final category for women and juniors. 

But, what would a true competition be without a bit of fun?

Between all of the whip cracking and horse shoeing there will also be billy boiling competitions, goat racing and high velocity trick riders as well as an action packed night of entertainment on Friday with the ‘King of the Ranges Spectacular’ from 5 to 11pm.

With standout performers coming to town such as the Luke Thomas’s Outback Show, the popular Tribute to Archie ‘Bung’ McInnes and live music from Double Trouble on Friday night, the entertainment will wrap up with country star Brent Larkham performing live on Saturday night. 

For more details or to access a program visit www.kingoftheranges.com.au or their Facebook page.