Fitzroy Crossing Rodeo and Campdraft pulls plug for 2022 after vandalism and arson

The organisers of the one of the Kimberley’s largest rodeos have made the “devastating” decision to cancel their 2022 event after the intended venue was targeted by vandals last month. Chris Towne, the president of Fitzroy Crossing Annual Campdraft and Rodeo, said the decision to cancel the three-day event in July was made “due to the devastating vandalism of the grounds” and the “reduction of cattle availability” if the event was to be postponed. In May, the Fitzroy Crossing Showgrounds had excessive damage after a suspicious fire tore through the venues facilities. Pictures posted on Facebook by Mr Towne revealed water tanks melted by fire and destroyed sheds, damage which left the committee “with no choice but to postpone”. The president has now revealed they were unable to make this work. “The committee exhausted all avenues to try and run the event in Fitzroy at a later date but unfortunately we were just unable to make this work,” he said. “We will now work towards fixing and repairing the grounds up to enable us to run a bigger and better event in 2023.” The Fitzroy Crossing Annual Campdraft and Rodeo brings people from around the Kimberley and showcases the local talent of the area.