By HARRY CLARKE
IN A silver lining to the news Mount Isa Rodeo ticketholders had been dreading, Brisbane sibling pop sensation Sheppard will be performing at the Mount Isa Rodeo following Guy Sebastian’s cancellation.
Guy Sebastian, who had been lining up for his first performance at the Southern Hemisphere’s largest rodeo, is based south of the border and is essentially locked out of Queensland.
Mount Isa Mines Rodeo CEO Natalie Flecker said organisers were disappointed at Guy’s forced cancellation but were relieved and thrilled to be welcoming Sheppard back to the stage at Buchanan Park.
“Unfortunately we haven’t been successful in organising the required travel exemptions for Guy and his crew. The health and safety of fans and all involved is the primary objective at all times,” Ms Flecker said.
“With just two days to go, we have had to make the difficult decision to adjust the line-up and go with favourite Queensland entertainers Sheppard.
“Sheppard are absolutely thrilled to be returning to Mount Isa and are determined to make sure everyone has a fantastic time.
“They are really excited to step in and know how passionate the Mount Isa community is about their rodeo and entertainment.
LEE KERNAGHAN talks to COUNTRY CALLER about the 2021 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo
“We tried very hard, but at just two days out we have had to make a call in the interest of delivering all aspects of our festival including our Rodeo Rock concerts.
The good news is, we have secured Guy Sebastian as our headline act for our 2022 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, so fans can lock in 11 th – 14 th August, 2022.
“The remainder of our entertainment line-up is unchanged, with Casey Barnes supporting Sheppard on Friday night and Australian country legend Lee Kernaghan appearing Saturday night with Mick Lindsay.”
The RODEO ROCK Concerts are included in rodeo passes.
Ms Flecker said she wanted to reassure rodeo fans that preparations were being finalised for the 62 nd Mount Isa Mines Rodeo which gets underway this Thursday.
“This year’s event will be delivered under a managed Covid Safe Event Plan that has been approved by Queensland Health and the State Government,” she said.
Tickets are still on sale and accommodation is available, including the Mount Isa Mines onsite Tent City.
