Early in the day at Kilcoy Rodeo 2021, a frightened calf is chased by men on horseback, roughly roped around his neck, jerked into the air and slammed onto the ground. He calls out in fear and pain. There aren’t many spectators. Lots of people these days just don’t enjoy watching calf roping.
Calf roping events are already banned in Victoria, South Australia and the ACT because of the stress caused and risk of serious injury to these vulnerable baby animals.
During calf roping, a young calf is sent into a ring, sometimes in front of bright lights and often in a noisy environment. A human competitor choosing to take part chases them down on a horse, then tries to prove they can restrain and ‘down’ the calf by the neck. Onlookers and veterinarians often describe the violence inflicted as confronting.
Coming together as a community is important for many of us. And regardless of where one stands on rodeos, most people would agree that tormenting baby animals has no place in any community gathering, especially when children are watching. Right now the Queensland Government is considering new rodeo standards, and importantly, the future of calf roping. Together, we can urge Queensland to make the same compassionate decision as other states.
Use the form above to send an instant message to Premier Miles and your state MP today, asking them to listen to the community, animal welfare groups and the Australian Veterinary Association — and ban calf roping in Queensland.
Header image credit: Animal Liberation QLD
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