Mount Barker Campdraft 2026
The Mount Barker Campdraft returned to Frost Oval over the Australia Day weekend, 23–25 January 2026, delivering three full days of competition and recording its strongest entry numbers to date — almost one third higher than last year’s Challenge.
Friday opened with the Stockman’s Challenge, where competitors faced an early wet start and the added test of both dry and wet work patterns. Action commenced at 7.00am with the Braithwaite Land & Livestock Rookie Stockman’s Challenge, followed by the Milne Feeds Open Stockman’s Challenge and the Under 7 Years Horses class, all judged by South West judge Dawn Solomon. The Under 7 Years class, a popular addition to this year’s program and sponsored by long-time members PC & WE Bessell Browne, was warmly received by competitors and spectators alike.
As conditions improved, the Way Out West Outfitters & SurefootMat WA/NT Juvenile Challenge and the Great Southern Farm Service Junior Challenge took centre stage under the judging of Sharlie Morrison. Wet work for the Rookies, judged by local Jim Daley with cattle supplied by Mt Barker Estate & Scenic View Grazing, saw Rebecca Butcher aboard Twist N Blus narrowly claim victory over Simone Bennie on Rivenlee Elite by just half a point.
Strong local performances continued across the Junior and Juvenile divisions, while the Open Stockman’s Challenge delivered early drama, finishing in a tie between Sam Caporn and Guy Bennie. The pair returned at 6.30am Saturday for a re-run of both patterns, with Guy Bennie on Espoir Condo ultimately securing the win.
Saturday’s program featured the Nutrien Ag Solutions – Mt Barker Novice Campdraft, attracting more than 160 entries. Judged by Club Vice President Glen Parsons, John Percy riding Saltriver Indi claimed first place, with Club member Clare Webster on Balwyn Escalator close behind. The Lake Muir Prime Beef & Lindberg Dairy Encouragement Campdraft followed, alongside the Hubbard Agencies Junior and Beyond the Farm Gate Juvenile Campdrafts, keeping the arena busy throughout the day.
Saturday evening concluded with the Mount Barker Vet Hospital Restricted Open Horse Campdraft, judged by Steve McKinven. Once finalists were determined, the Club hosted its Donor and Sponsor Sundowner, supported by Rosenthal Wines & Mt Barker Co-Op, with Plantagenet Meats providing local produce. The Calcutta, led by auctioneer Paul Gorman, generated strong bidding, peaking at $750 for Guy Bennie riding Spy. In a charged final, local rider Jim Daley on Arraway Clara claimed the win, much to the delight of the crowd.
Sunday commenced with The Staite Family & Milne Feeds ‘Gavin Smith Memorial’ Open Campdraft, judged by Charlie Staite and won by Sharlie Morrison aboard Glenarden Switch. The weekend concluded with the Maiden Campdraft, where Clare Webster on Balwyn Escalator added another success to her weekend.
Across all events, competitors praised the quality of cattle and the smooth running of the program. Food vendors, trade stands and loyal volunteers contributed to the welcoming atmosphere, while Rustic Pics was once again on the sidelines capturing the action.
With record entries, competitive finals and strong community support, the 2026 Mount Barker Campdraft marked another successful chapter for the Club — one that sets a confident tone for an even bigger year ahead.
