Australian hatmaker Akubra has signed on to be the presenting partner of the 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo.
Chair of the Mount Isa Mines Pro Rodeo board, Mark ‘Tommo’ Thompson, said the last time Akubra was officially associated with the Queensland rodeo event was back in the 1980s.
“After 44 years, the hat so proudly worn by generations of Australians, whether they ride or rope or work in the city, comes back to the famous red dirt of Kalkadoon Arena at Buchanan Park as a Presenting Partner, and Official Hat of Mount Isa Mines Rodeo,” Thompson said.
“Last year, the Akubra CEO Natalie Culina and her crew attended Rodeo to capture content for their national brand campaign – and they found the perfect story already unfolding. The backdrop of Buchanan Park, the strength and swagger of the cowboys and cowgirls, the heat, the pride, the dust, the authenticity, the freedom – it just fit. Like a perfectly worn-in hat. We are thrilled, emotional and so excited for what will be a reunion for the ages come August 8 to 10.”
Akubra CEO Natalie Culina said the partnership brings together two icons of Australian culture to the heart of the country’s rodeo scene.
"From cattle stations to rodeo arenas, Akubra has been engrained in rural Australia’s story for more than a century,” she said.
“This rodeo is more than just an event – it’s a celebration of grit, tradition and country spirit, and we’re proud to stand alongside the competitors, fans and families who make it so special.”
“We’re excited for Mount Isa Mines Rodeo presented by Akubra to write the next chapter of this iconic event and continue supporting the community that has always embraced us.”
Akubra was born 148 years ago in Tasmania. For the last 50 years, the brand has been producing its hats in Kempsey, New South Wales.
The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo began in 1959 by a group of locals, with the aim to generate tourism and town reputation, as well as raise funds for charity organisations in the new city.
The event is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.