A COMMUNITY petition is calling on Redland City Council to immediately stop funding bull riding events with public money, reigniting debate over animal welfare and the use of ratepayer funds.
The petition, launched by resident Donna Weston, urges Council to withdraw financial support for events involving animals and to tighten its grant criteria to exclude such activities in future.
At the centre of the campaign is a $90,000 funding allocation – $30,000 per year over three years – awarded to Grass Roots Bull Riding through Council’s Signature Events Attraction and Retention Fund.
The petition argues the funding has been directed to a commercial event rather than a community organisation and claims the decision does not align with community expectations.
“Ratepayer and public money must reflect community values,” the petition states.
“Ours do not include the public subsidisation of animal cruelty.”
The petition raises concerns about animal welfare practices associated with bull riding, including the use of flank straps, chute confinement and reports of electric prods.
It also references a 2020 animal cruelty complaint lodged with RSPCA Queensland relating to a Grass Roots Bull Riding event in the Redlands.
According to the petition, the RSPCA has publicly expressed concerns about rodeo-style events, arguing existing codes of practice do not adequately address animal welfare risks.
Campaigners say Council’s funding criteria, which require supported events to deliver positive community and reputational outcomes, are not being met in this case, particularly given Redlands Coast’s environmental credentials and focus on wildlife protection.
However, Division 3 councillor Paul Golle said it was important the debate reflected the full picture, including the role such events play in the local economy and community life.
Cr Golle said events supported under Council’s program were assessed against set criteria, including their ability to attract visitors, support local businesses and contribute to the region’s events calendar.
He said while animal welfare concerns should be taken seriously, bull riding remained a regulated activity operating under established standards in Queensland.
“There are strong views on both sides of this issue, and I respect that,” he said.
“But these events also bring people into the region, support local jobs and businesses, and form part of a broader events strategy designed to benefit the community.”
The petition calls for Council to withdraw remaining funding under the current agreement or, at minimum, not renew it, to introduce explicit animal welfare exclusions in future funding programs, to consult with recognised welfare bodies including the RSPCA, and to provide a transparent explanation of how the funding decision was made.
