Emerald Campdraft
Emerald Campdraft is one of Emerald’s signature events, drawing visitors from across the Central Highlands and beyond. Premier horsemanship competition attracting experienced riders from across the region.
About Emerald Campdraft
Campdrafting is quintessential Australian bush sport — horse and rider work together to separate and control cattle through a set course. The Emerald Campdraft attracts experienced competitors from across Queensland, showcasing exceptional horsemanship, stock skills, and the deep connection between rider and horse. Expect a full program of drafting events, trade displays, and rural atmosphere.
The event typically attracts 500–800 visitors.
When & Where
When: Annually, typically April–June Where: Emerald Showgrounds Expected attendance: 500–800
Why Attend
Campdrafting offers an authentic glimpse into rural Australian culture that few other events can match. The skill involved is remarkable, and the atmosphere — dust, horses, cattle, and genuine country hospitality — is an experience visitors remember.
Getting There
Emerald is accessible via the Capricorn Highway from both Brisbane (9 hours) and Rockhampton (3 hours). Emerald Airport has daily flights from Brisbane via QantasLink and Alliance Airlines.
Emerald Inn — After a Long Day in the Camp
Campdraft days start early and finish dusty, and the drive home afterwards is the part nobody enjoys. Staying in town at 28–30 Esmond Street takes that out of the equation.
Floats and larger vehicles use the street parking around the property — our horse-sport guests do this regularly — while cars go undercover for free. Inside, a rain shower, a washer-dryer for the moleskins, and a full kitchen with a proper stove for a steak that is not a chip-shop one.
Stay with us: 28–30 Esmond Street, Emerald QLD 4720. Check availability or call (07) 4980 0600. Compare the three apartment types.
The Country Around the Camp
Campdraft country is worth looking at from outside an arena as well as inside one:
- The Central Highlands cattle industry — why the beef here is worth eating locally
- Springsure & Virgin Rock — Virgin Rock and the Minerva Hills, an easy half-day run
- Fairbairn Dam & Lake Maraboon — barramundi, yellowbelly and red claw, a short drive out
- Winter in the Central Highlands — the case for visiting between May and August
Plan Your Visit
- Accommodation: Emerald Inn — Deluxe, Executive, and Two Bedroom apartments
- Dining: Emerald dining guide — cafes, pubs, and local beef
- Services: Emerald services guide — supermarkets, fuel, medical
- FAQs: Emerald QLD FAQ — climate, distances, what to expect
- Contact: Emerald Inn — (07) 4980 0600 or bookings@emeraldinn.com.au