A record crowd, some of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the country in action and one big night of entertainment has led to organisers declaring this year's Cooma Rodeo one of the best yet.

The AgriWest Cooma Rodeo attracted competitors from the Snowy Monaro, Far South Coast, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia. The rodeo is one of the highlights on the South Coast rodeo calendar and brought a bumper through the gates.

The record crowd of more than 2000 spectators enjoyed the action in the arena and the many trade and food stalls on offer. Once the action started, the crowd couldn’t take their eyes off the arena as the stock from the McPhee Rodeo Company, tested every rider.

There were some sizzling times in the Michelle O’Neill Memorial Barrel Race with Leslie Moore winning in a time of 17.363. The race was in honour of Michelle, a highly respected and accomplished local equine educator and horsewoman. Michelle died in an accident at her Peak View property in August 2024.

On hand to present first prize in the memorial race were Michelle's husband, Warren, son, Spencer, and mum, Neroli.

Local Junior, Jessica Filtness, won the Corkhill Livestock Junior Barrel Race with a time of 18.755.

Ryder Pierce travelled over from Tooma with his family for the Corkhill Livestock Junior Steer Ride to win with a 75. Local steer rider, Jack Riley, scored a 73 point ride for second place in only his eighth rodeo. Third in the event went to Jayden Dowell scoring 72. Fourth place was a tie with local, Eli Riley, and Billy Hogg both scoring a 70.

The Cochran Horse Treks/Cloyne Valley Farm Open Saddle Bronc saw Tim Hammond score an 81.5 to take home first place. Hammond travelled from Corryong to repeat his 2024 performance at Cooma.

The Cooma Rodeo committee said it was very pleased with the support from local businesses and the community. Organisers said this year's rodeo is one of the best in many years.

Committee president, Rinsie Jamieson, thanked major sponsors AgriWest Cooma and Corkhill Transport for their support. He also thanked the Cooma Hotel, Hazeldean, Ward Farm Services, Franks Transport, Cooma Equipment Hire and Think Pink Plumbing and Gas.

"A big thanks to our local businesses and community for the support, we hope to see you all next year," Jamieson said.