The King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge and Bush Festival brings three days of competition, tradition and rural celebration that is definitely worth a trip to the Upper Hunter Valley, NSW, for.
Last year, Dr Harry was lucky enough to attend the iconic bush festival where Kelsie Lupson and John Mitchell took out the Ladies and Open titles.
“What an amazing weekend,” says Dr Harry. “I am full to the brim. Make a point of being here in September, where you can see it happen all over again. It’s a great event, don’t miss it.”
The King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge and Bush Festival returns to Murrurundi, Friday the 25th – Sunday the 27th of September 2026.
A celebration of stockman heritage
The annual event showcases the traditional skills of Australian stockmen and women. Over the course of the challenge, competitors earn points across six events: stock handling, packsaddle work, bareback riding, horseshoeing, whipcracking and cross-country riding.
Beyond the main challenge, the festival also includes crowd-favourite activities such as billy boiling competitions, damper cooking demonstrations, whipcrack clinics and the famous goat races.
Where it all began
The event began in 2004. It was inspired by local stockmen who wanted to preserve traditional bushcraft skills and honour Upper Hunter horseman Archie “Bung” McInnes. Known for his ability to track wild brumbies and ride buck jumpers, McInnes became widely regarded as the original “King of the Ranges.”
Where to find King of the Ranges tickets for 2026
Tickets for the 2026 King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge and Bush Festival will go on sale in June.
They will be available via the King of the Ranges website.
For updates, visitors can follow the official King of the Ranges Instagram page. The page regularly shares event news, competitor highlights and festival announcements.
With thousands of spectators attending each year, organisers recommend purchasing tickets early once sales open.
The King of the Ranges will return to Murrurundi, Friday the 25th – Sunday the 27th of September 2026
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