THE Warwick Show and Rodeo Society is gearing up to present the first New Year's Eve Rodeo event, complete with fireworks.

Bar committee chairman Gerard O'Leary has helped organise the event that will include a poddy ride, junior steer ride, a junior barrel race, then open events with bullock rides, barrel race and an affiliated $2000 bull ride to finish activities in the arena.

"Preparations are going really well and the judges and stock are in place," Mr O'Leary said.

"There was nothing much happening around this time of the year and people I've spoke to and even the police have been supporting us to have it.

"It's made as a family event and it's what we have to give back to the community."

Mr O'Leary said the event had already received attention, and encouraged more nominees to sign up and book camping spots.

"Nominations for the event will close next week and they can call the show office to nominate," he said.

"We'd like to see up to 30 bullock riders, and we've got people from as far away as Dubbo coming along.

"If people want to camp they should call to book for just $10, so if they want to have a few drinks until early, they can camp and stay for breakfast and go home at their leisure."

Organisers have also planned a ladies' steer ride, with a special trophy buckle not won at the Warwick Rodeo, to go ahead with sufficient nominations.

Barrel racing will also be open for all grades, and competitors can look forward to added entries and a good payout in all events.

For kids, there will be a jumping castle, face painting and a slippery slide.

"We've had a lot of response to it so far, so it should definitely go off," Mr O'Leary said.

"Steele's Bakery have supported us well for the fireworks - the first will be when the rodeo finishes at 9pm for families with younger kids, and a second lot at midnight.

"The canteen and bar will be running from when the gates open at 4pm and run until late.

"It's all volunteers helping to set up and serve on the bar, and all food and drinks have been bought locally.

"Warwick's noted for its rodeo and this is just a New Year's party and a good opportunity for us to work together and support our local businesses."

For more information and nominations, phone the show office on 46619060

Rodeo & Fireworks

Prices

• Adults: $20
• Families: $40
• Kids under 13: Free