NEW ARRIVAL
THE OLD WEST
Step into a world where history meets style. This distinguished hat combines the rugged appeal of a bold Western brim with a refined pencil curl, expertly crafted in Australia by our Master Hatters. Limited quantity available.
THE SPECIAL EDITIONS
Rodeo Icon & Living Legend
BOB HOLDER
Born in 1931, Bob Holder is recognised as the world’s oldest competing professional rodeo rider. His journey began at 14, when he forged a letter to enter a novice bronc ride at the Tumut Rodeo and won. At 94, Bob still inspires generations of cowboys and rodeo fans.
The Old West, with its curled brim and upturned sides is a hallmark of Australia’s bush and outback culture, mirrors Bob’s own spirit: resilient, timeless, and shaped by life in the saddle.
PRESENTED BY AKUBRA
THE ROAD TO ISA
In the heart of Australia’s outback, the road to Mt Isa is more than dirt and bitumen, it’s a lifeline carrying stories, sweat, and spirit. Every red horizon, clang of steel gates, and golden dust cloud tells of a community bound by grit, tradition, and the thrill of the rodeo. Riders chase glory, families reunite, a town comes alive. It’s about mateship, late-night yarns, and quiet moments that linger long after the crowd fades.
With every hat tilted against the sun, every hand on the reins, every step into the arena, this is where Akubra belongs.
THE ROAD TO ISA
HISTORY
The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is more than a competition, it’s a cornerstone of Australian outback culture, and it’s been that way since 1959. Originally created to put Mt Isa on the map and raise funds for local charities, the rodeo has since grown into the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere, with some of Australia’s most legendary rodeo figures right at its heart.
To explore its enduring appeal, we spoke with rodeo icons Bob Holder and Marcus Curr, alongside Akubra CEO Natalie Culina, delving into the history, significance, and traditions of this iconic event, and the role Akubra proudly plays as presenting partner.
THE ROAD TO ISA
RITUALS
At Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, the action doesn’t just begin when the chute gate swings open. It starts in the shadows of the arena, where the cowboys prepare for the raw chaos before their ride.
This is the heartbeat of Australian rodeo culture: raw and electric. The air hangs heavy with dust and sweat, every sound sharpened: the grind of boots on worn timber, the rattle of ropes against steel, the guttural breaths of the animals, the roaring crowd, the announcer’s voice bellowing through crackled speakers.
There’s a silence behind the chutes that only a cowboy knows. The air goes thick with nerves, grit, and the weight of the ride to come. This is the spirit of the rodeo, the world of the cowboy. Meet the riders who live it.
EXPLORE
THE RODEO EDIT
IT TAKES [6 weeks] TO MAKE AN AKUBRA HAT. THERE ARE [162 steps] IN THE PROCESS. EACH HAT IS HANDLED [200 times] IN MANUFACTURE, PASSING THROUGH [60 pairs] OF HANDS. THE YEAR [1876] IS WHEN IT ALL STARTED.
OUR WORKSHOP
HANDCRAFTED IN AUSTRALIA
Since 1876
Founded in Tasmania by Benjamin Dunkerley in 1876. This is a story of how hand craftsmanship will always outshine fast fashion. The Akubra hat is built for exploration and handcrafted for toughness and has become a pure Australian icon.
Master Hatters
The Akubra hat can only be mastered by those who truly understand the essence of quality. Our Master Hatters have spent over a century honing their skills and perfecting their craft, ensuring each Akubra hat is designed to last a lifetime of adventure.
Kempsey
Born in Australia. Made in Kempsey. The Akubra encapsulates the very spirit of Australian culture. A culture defined by enthusiasm, courage, boundless adventure and resilience. Akubra exists through family, community, quality and longevity.
THE AKUBRA HAT IS BUILT FOR [exploration] AND HANDCRAFTED FOR [toughness]
STORIES OF AKUBRA
rituals before the ride
At Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, the action doesn’t just begin when the chute gate swings open. It starts in the shadows of the arena, where the cowboys prepare for the raw chaos before their ride.
Read more
Bob Holder
At 94 years old, Bob continues to inspire generations of cowboys and rodeo fans alike.
Read more
Through The Lens Of Ivana
Melbourne-based photographer Ivana, a former international model turned photographer brings a raw, honest beauty to her work, capturing stillness, light, and mood with a deep connection to the land...
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