Battle on the Bidgee returns to Gundagai from 9–11 October 2026, bringing three days of exciting horsemanship, stock handling and traditional bush skill competition to the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.

The event showcases some of Australia’s finest Stockmen and Women as competitors battle it out across a range of challenging preliminary events including Stock Handling, Packhorse, Whip Crack, Dry Work Pattern, Bareback Obstacle, Horseshoeing and Cross Country.

Finals day promises plenty of action, with the Top 10 Open Competitors competing in the Wild Horse Catch and Poley Buck Jump, while the Top 5 Lady Competitors take on the Wild Horse Catch and Working Cow Horse events. Junior competitors will also compete in Time Trial and Steer Catch finals.

The Novice category returns in 2026, alongside Striplings events designed to encourage younger riders to showcase their skills and gain competition experience in a supportive environment.

Battle on the Bidgee is a celebration of Australian bush culture, horsemanship and rural tradition, attracting competitors and spectators from across the country to Gundagai each year.