The Campdraft Central Association released updated competition rules on 3 February, 2026, to improve safety and scoring standards for the Fernvale Campdraft Festival in Queensland. These guidelines arrive just weeks before the local event begins in March at the Colin Powell Reserve.
The 2026 update focuses on better protection for riders and tougher penalties for cattle handling to ensure animals are treated well during the competition. Young riders will also see stricter safety requirements to keep them safe while competing in the arena.
Local organisers have been preparing for these changes by upgrading the arena surface with support from the Somerset Regional Council. The council recently helped fund the resurfacing work to ensure the grounds meet modern competition standards.
A new electronic scoring system will be used to make sure every rider is judged fairly and matches standards used across Australia. This means a rider in Fernvale will be measured with the same accuracy as those competing in national championships.
These rules are designed to help the sport grow while keeping community traditions alive in the Somerset region. Organisers say the better arena surface and new scoring rules will help show off the high quality of horses and livestock in the local area.
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