Welcome to campdraft school, where a new generation takes the reins
The Topar Campdraft Clinic in far-west New South Wales is teaching a new generation the skills of campdrafting, a demanding equestrian sport rooted in Australian cattle mustering traditions. Horse trainer Jay Charnock leads clinics that emphasize horsemanship, precision, and reading cattle behavior. The event, which celebrated its 30th anniversary, draws participants from across the country and serves as a vital community gathering in rural Australia.
- ▪Campdrafting originated in Australian livestock camps as a way for stockmen to test their horsemanship by separating and maneuvering cattle.
- ▪Jay Charnock, a horse trainer from NSW, travels nationally to teach campdrafting techniques and promote the sport.
- ▪The Topar Campdraft has been running for 30 years and is organized by a dedicated volunteer committee to support rural community engagement.
- ▪Participants must separate a cow from a mob and guide it through a figure-eight course around two pegs before exiting through a gate.
- ▪The event attracts competitors of all ages and from diverse locations, including families traveling long distances such as from Victoria to far-west NSW.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Topar Campdraft Clinic riders take the reins and get hooked on the sportBy Lily McCureABC Broken HillTopic:Sport EventSun 17 May 2026 at 7:58amSun 17 May 2026 at 7:58amSun 17 May 2026 at 7:58amCampdrafting involves a high level of horsemanship, speed and skill. (ABC Broken Hill: Lily McCure)abc.net.au/news/topar-campdrafting-clinic-riders-learn-sport/106583756Link copiedShareShare articleAmongst the red dirt and flies, horseriders and spectators watch intently as cattle are moved around a small yard. Horse trainer Jay Charnock is demonstrating how to "cut out" a cow on horseback, the step before it's then released through a set of gates, and the rider is given 40 seconds to manoeuvre the beast around an area.Jay Charnock teaches a campdrafting clinic in Topar, far-west NSW.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).