Dust settles at Copley after successful Far North favourite event

A tough winter for a struggling region was forgotten for a weekend when hundreds kicked up the dust at the Copley Gymkhana and Motokhana recently.

Over 200 revellers from as far away as Coober Pedy and Nilpinna Station met at the Desert Riders Club near Copley and just north of Leigh Creek for the much-anticipated annual event.

The Gymkhana and Motokhana attracted entrants from as far away as Port Augusta and Quorn taking part in horse riding and motorbike events for children of all ages and adults.

Proceedings included barrel races, bending races, keyhole races, horse quoits, galloping darts, flag and barrel race and stockman’s challenge.

The event was a welcome distraction from the economic and population decline Copley and Leigh Creek locals suffering on the back of departing industry at the local coal mine site.

Copley and Districts Gymkhana Secretary Bridie Ferguson said the event remains important to help the local community push on in times of adversity.

“The event is extremely important to the local community,” Ms Ferguson said.

“With the closure of the mine lots of sports have stopped with only cricket in Copley remaining, so the Gymkhana is an important community event for the region.

“It brings everyone together from far and wide to catch up and celebrate.”

The event was deemed a success by organisers, which also raised $10,000 for MND South Australia through their raffle and auction.

Fledgling energy company Leigh Creek Energy hopes to rejuvenate the region through a new environmentally sustainable and innovative project at the old site, and was a first-time major sponsor at the gymkhana this year.

Company community liaison Stephen Batton was there to experience his first ever gymkhana, and gauged exactly how important the event is to Copley and the surrounding region.

“You really appreciate how community events like this one are vital to the social fabric of the outback and LCK was proud to support this fantastic event,” Mr Batton said.

“From LCK’s perspective the Copley Districts Gymkhana and Motokhana is an essential community event which highlights the far north’s inspiring spirit.”

Ms Ferguson said local challenges mean maintaining the event year after year is difficult, but she the help of sponsorship should see a bigger and better Gymkhana and Motokhana in 2019.

“We hope to improve a few of the facilities to make next year’s event even better,” Ms Ferguson said.

“Hopefully we get the same level of support from our sponsors and supporters – they help to make the day happen.”

“Of course the gymkhana wouldn’t be able to go ahead without the support of our major sponsors – Consolidated Mining and Civil, Puttapa Station and Leigh Creek Energy, plus 45 other sponsors and businesses from the region.

“We also have a great organising committee who help with the planning and execution of the day. Also lots of helpers and volunteers who make the day possible.”