Community
26 June, 2024
Saxby geared up for big campdraft weekend
Hundreds of people will flock to a remote station north of Julia Creek.
There's no hesitation for Charli Curr when picking her favourite campdraft event – she says it’s easily the Saxby Roundup.
Held on the edge of Martin’s Waterhole on the remote Taldora Station, north of Julia Creek, Ms Curr has been going to the annual campdraft and rodeo for as long as she can remember.
“It’s my favourite event of the year,” she told North West Weekly.
“I’ve been going since I was a baby. It has got a really original ambience that no other draft or rodeo has.”
The 24-year-old, who is also the secretary of the event’s rodeo, said the remoteness of the location had a big impact on the event.
“It’s in the middle of nowhere with no service,” she said.
“You have to be social and it’s very casual and you end up having heaps of fun.”
The Saxby Roundup has built such a strong reputation that there is a waiting list for competitors, with campdrafters from interstate keen to get amongst the action.
“We try and prioritise locals and workers on our local stations,” Ms Curr said.
Spectators are encouraged to attend the four-day event, which starts today (Thursday), although Ms Curr said it was important to be prepared.
“Bring cash because there is no EFTPOS here,” she said.
“If you are camping, make sure you bring your own drinking water and power if you need it.”
To get to Taldora Station, take the turnoff on the western side of Julia Creek and head north for 19km before veering off to the right onto the Millungera/Taldora Road. Saxby is about 155km along this road.
Around 70km is unsealed.