By Kath Gannaway
ORGANISERS have rated Yarra Valley Rodeo held on Saturday 21 January, at Healesville racecourse as a fantastic success.
With numbers capped at under 5000 after an unexpected crowd of around 8000 proved unmanageable last year, Yarra Valley Rodeo Committee spokesman Tim Wilson said the committee had worked hard all year to put measures into place to ensure the enjoyment and safety of the rodeo crowd and the community.
The event is run by a volunteer committee with proceeds going to local clubs and charities.
Mr Wilson said grandstand seating gave people a great view, and the organisers involved the community more with local organisations providing the food stalls and the Yarra Ranges Football Netball League and some local clubs roped in.
Extra traffic management and prior notice helped make the event a success.
“We had a great night, good viewing, a fantastic crowd, music by popular local band Ruckus and everyone enjoying themselves.
“We are learning ourselves, and it will only get better,” Mr Wilson said.