When Zoe Olive first dreamt up the Bangalow Buckle Challenge in 2018, she wasn’t chasing ribbons or prestige – she wanted to open the gates of horsemanship to everyone. The result is a uniquely inclusive competition that’s grown from 39 competitors in its first year to more than 100 horses converging on the Bangalow Showgrounds annually, all vying for the coveted silver buckle.
“It started because I saw riders who wanted to give stock horse challenges a go, but felt intimidated by the strict rules around registration, gear and presentation,” says Zoe. “So I created something independent, more accessible, where it didn’t matter what breed your horse was or what saddle you used – you just had to give it a go.”
The Bangalow Buckle Challenge is now a two-day event held annually in early March, with categories designed to cater to all levels of rider experience and horse age. From juniors and youth encouragement classes to open super horse and master rider divisions, every entrant has the opportunity to develop and showcase their horsemanship across a variety of skills.
“We don’t run a full campdraft,” Zoe explains, adding that each competitor rides four core patterns: a hack (a flatwork sequence judged on movement and presentation), a utility pattern (obstacles such as gates, poles and side-passing), a working pattern (showing agility and responsiveness often used in stock work) and cattle work. “We call it ‘beast work’ – it’s a controlled introduction where each rider gets two minutes with a single beast in the arena, aiming to demonstrate control, movement and flow.”
Campdrafting, which you may have seen in action at the Bangalow Show, requires a rider to select a single beast from a small group, separate it from the mob in a yard (or “camp”), and then guide it through a cloverleaf-shaped course at speed. It demands a high degree of cattle knowledge, horse skill and split-second decision-making. While thrilling to watch, it can be daunting for less experienced riders – which is exactly why Zoe chose a simplified format that allows everyone to have a go, regardless of background or skill level.
And it’s not just the competitors who get involved. The event is run entirely by volunteers, with many participants helping set up, ‘pencil’ for judges (writing down scores) or serving lunches in between their own rides. “It’s a real community effort,” says Zoe. “I couldn’t do it without them. That’s why we introduced the Big Effort Big Buckle – a prize not for the best rider, but for the competitor who shows the most spirit and willingness to help. It started out as a joke but now it’s one of the most prized buckles of the event.”
One of those buckle winners is former Bangalow Herald committee member Ean Jones, who has taken out both the Master Rider Buckle and the Big Effort Buckle. “He’s a real all-rounder,” Zoe says. “Always up for helping out and just such a great sport.”
The buckle itself is a key part of the event’s identity. “I chose a buckle because it’s something you can wear. It’s a visible trophy – you don’t just stick it on a shelf,” says Zoe. “People see it and ask, ‘What did you win that for?’ It sparks stories.”
The design has evolved over the years, with Zoe determined to find a buckle maker who could produce a high-quality, personalised piece. She now works with an Australian-owned company to design buckles with custom engraving, coloured stones and each buckle is stamped with the year, event and division. “We try to make each one special. Whether it’s for the Encouragement Challenge or the Open Super Horse, that rider has earned it.”
That spirit of inclusion is matched by a high standard of horsemanship and judging. Each section has its own judge, many of whom return year after year. “I encourage riders to chat to the judges, ask questions, get feedback. It’s a learning opportunity as well as a competition,” she says. In fact, the event kicks off with a two-hour warm-up session where competitors rotate through each ring to practise patterns and get rid of their “nerves and butterflies” – both horse and rider.
And while Zoe has run the event independently since day one, she’s quick to acknowledge her loyal supporters. Local businesses help feed the judges and volunteers, and a huge array of sponsors keep the event running. “We couldn’t have done this without them,” she says.
Despite running the event, Zoe has managed to ride in previous years – though she admits she’s yet to claim a buckle of her own. “I’ve come second,” she smiles. “But this year I’ve told my team that everyone who helps has to get their ride in too. We’re not riding for sheep stations—we’re doing this so everyone can have a go.”
The Bangalow Buckle Challenge is also evolving. This year sees the debut of a whipcracking competition, complete with community barbecue and bar, judged by a former Australian whipcracking champion. “It’s all part of creating a space where the whole town can come and participate, even if they don’t ride,” says Zoe.
That mindset – of making room, breaking down barriers and encouraging growth – is what sets the Bangalow Buckle Challenge apart. “Whether it’s a child on their first pony, an older rider coming back after a break, or someone just wanting to try something new, there’s a place for them here,” says Zoe. “And if they win a buckle? Even better.”
The Bangalow Buckle Challenge returns to the Bangalow Showground on Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March 2026, featuring two full days of versatile horse challenges for all breeds. The program includes the Super Horse Challenge, Encouragement and Jackaroo/Jillaroo Maiden Challenges, Youth and Young Horse classes, and the popular Bangalow Bucket Obstacle Trial. Special awards include the Equestrienne Magazine All Round Lady Rider Award, the Norco Stock Feeds Magnificent Master Rider Award and the Glen Gough Big Effort Big Buckle Award.
The Triple Crown Trophy will also return, spanning three regional events. Saturday begins with practice at 7.30am and competitions from 9.30am, followed by a Lions Club BBQ and the inaugural Northern Rivers Whip Cracking Championship. Sunday features cattle work, obstacle trials and awards. Public spectators most welcome – free entry.