The annual event was held at the Gladstone Sporting Grounds with more than 880 runs completed over the two days.

Gladstone Rodeo Committee member Beryl McCarthy said it was the biggest event she had been involved in.

“We started with 900 entries and ended up doing 881 runs over the two days,” she said.

“It was record entries.”

Mrs McCarthy said there were a number of factors that resulted in the weekend being such a huge success.

“Campdrafting has increased in popularity nation-wide,” she said. 

“We had pretty good prize money up for grabs, which helps. It is held at a good safe ground and people like that. And of course we offer good hospitality.”

The event was well supported by the local community with a number entries coming from the Macleay and Mid North Coast areas.

People also travelled from around the state to compete in the event that has been running for more than 15 years.

Former Kempsey local Pat Smythe with his horse Docs Favour took out the main event, the Open for Open division. Ben Thompson, riding Roy, won the Open Draft.

2013 Gladstone Rodeo winners;

Junior draft: Kyle Patterson (Macleay) with horse Penny

Juvenile draft: Neisha Lowe with horse Molly

Encouragement Draft: Shane Kennedy (Macleay) with horse Calipso

Ladies: Lesley Apps with horse Monkey

Madien Draft: Joe Burgess with horse Smudge

Novice Draft: Cliff Lyon with horse Angel 

Open Draft: Ben Thompson with horse Roy 

Open for Opens: Pay Smythe with horse Docs Favour