Ray White Rodeo raises $97,773 for community groups

From left, Men’s Shed’s Bob Ward, Ray White Principal Matt O’Grady, event organiser Abbey Foster from Ray White, Sundale Community Foundation’s Caroline Hutchinson and Wayne Greenham and Greg Rogerson from TramCo.

The Ray White Nambour Rodeo, in just its third year, has achieved remarkable success by raising $97,773 for Nambour community groups. 

Money will be shared between Reimagine Nambour, Nambour Tramway Company and Sundale Community Foundation. Additionally, $10,000 has been pledged to the Nambour Men’s Shed, for when they find a much-needed new home.

Ray White Principal Matt O’Grady said he was proud to support Nambour’s development through the generous funding. 

“We look forward to getting those funds out to the groups that need it to actually help make Nambour the place it should be,” he said. “This is exactly what we envisaged for this rodeo. This money is for people that are on the streets doing the work and the funds go to the people that need it. That’s what we want.”

This year, the rodeo faced no significant obstacles, unlike the inaugural event in 2021, which was impacted by COVID restrictions, and the rain-affected event in 2022. The numbers reflect the rodeo’s growing popularity, with ticket sales reaching 3,983 and 4,800 drinks sold, resulting in the impressive total.

Notably, this year’s rodeo featured a full points rodeo, including all events. The day saw a diverse range of attendees, particularly families with young children, who enjoyed the various activities. The event experienced a surge in attendance as the day progressed, with the bar bustling and sales of rum and beer skyrocketing.

An analysis of ticket sales data revealed that 84 percent of attendees were from outside Nambour, highlighting the event’s ability to draw people to town.

Sundale Community Foundation Chair Caroline Hutchinson thanked Mr O’Grady for the $10,000 donation which would be distributed to support projects run by local community groups.

The Nambour Men’s Shed, faced with the task of finding a new home by September, received recognition for its essential work in supporting local men’s mental health. Mr O’Grady pledged a $10,000 donation to the club upon securing a new location.

Mr O’Grady thanked sponsors, including Cricks, Mackellar, Snap Fitness, Done & Dusted, Ray White Commercial, Cronau Enterprises, and Mason Finance Group, as well as the dedicated volunteers who contributed to the success of the event. 

For more information on the Sundale Community Foundation’s grants round and how to get involved, visit their website at www.sundalecommunityfoundation.org.au.