Far North Queensland is set for a massive adrenaline surge when the PBR Australia 2026 Monster Energy Cairns Invitational storms into the Cairns Convention Centre on July 4, bringing with it over $50,000 in prize money, world-class bull riders, and some of the fiercest bulls in the sport.
Leading the charge are Far North Queensland’s two champions in the current Australian Gold Buckle holder Kurt Shephard from Mareeba, and the firecracker PBR Origin debutant, also from Mareeba, Leith Malone.
Two weeks ago, Malone was instrumental in Queensland taking the PBR Australia Monster Energy Origin Series. In the Championship Round in Brisbane he climbed aboard Turbo knowing Queensland needed one final statement and the young cowboy delivered. His pressure-packed 84.25-point ride sealed the victory, sending the crowd into celebration and ensuring the Origin shield would return north of the border.
Also confirmed for Cairns is Queensland’s newest star, Ethan Coster. He too was pivotal in the Maroons’ success, with the Miriam Vale rookie backing up his Newcastle heroics with another standout performance in Brisbane, finishing two-from-three. He’ll be bringing this blistering form to Cairns!
Thirty elite cowboys have entered the competition, all chasing valuable championship points in a bid to secure a spot at the $150,000 PBR Grand Finals in Townsville this November.
“With the PBR Australia season heating up, every ride, every second, and every point counts,” said Glen Young, PBR Australia Managing Director.
The competition won’t just be tough, it’ll be ferocious, thanks to PRB Australia’s premier bull contractors Dittmann Bucking Bulls, Finch Rodeo Bulls, Dunne Bucking Bulls, MJ/Kleier Bucking Bulls and CF7 Bucking Bulls bringing their best stock to the event.
“The Cairns Invitational is where legends are made,” said Glen Young. “This is more than a competition, it’s a battle of grit, heart, and bull power. The crowd can expect an unforgettable night filled with edge-of-your-seat drama and world-class athleticism.”
Buckle up, Cairns. The PBR is back—and it’s bringing the thunder.
Saturday 4 July: PBR Monster Energy Tour: Cairns Invitational
- Venue: Cairns Convention Centre
- Event start: 7.00pm
- PBR Week 1-5 July: THE REEF STAMPEDE – Official Hoedown of the PBR at the Reef Casino.
- Bonus: Official PBR After Party at The Reef Hotel Casino following the event
- Booking: PBR Cairns Invitational Tickets
Why the fark would anyone want to jump on a 600kg wild killing machine desperate to stomp your skull into mush? In saying that I’ll be there 🫡👍
CN sticks close to reality that’s why I like it
And to think girls of ancient Crete used to somersault between the bulls horns and over their backs! Respect to the girls and the guys in the photo.