What’s happening?
The countdown is on for the 2025 PBR Monster Energy Origin Series, starting Saturday, 3 May at Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Queensland’s best bull riders, including Mackay region’s Brumby Brandenberg from Bloomsbury, are gearing up to defend their Origin dominance against New South Wales challengers.
On election day, while votes are cast across the country, the real battles will happen in the arena — where bull riders stake their claim with courage, not ballots.
Why it matters
The PBR Origin Series has become a centrepiece of Australian bull riding, showcasing fierce state rivalry, elite athleticism, and heart-stopping drama. Queensland remains unbeaten since the series kicked off in 2019. Now, New South Wales wants to change history. Brumby Brandenberg joins Team Queensland’s powerful line-up to help hold the Maroon legacy strong.
PBR Australia Managing Director Glen Young said, “The fiercest rivalry in Australian sport isn’t just played out on the footy field or at the ballot box — it rages in the bull riding arena too.”
He continued, “Queensland hasn’t lost an Origin Series since it began in 2019, so this year, it’s going to be a fierce battle, with NSW keen to make their mark. This Saturday, the real showdown will be in the chutes!”
Local Impact
Representing Bloomsbury near Mackay, Brumby Brandenberg stands proud as a reserve rider for the Queensland team. Known for his hard-hitting style and never-back-down spirit, Brandenberg’s rise from North Queensland paddocks to the national stage is a huge inspiration for young riders in the Mackay and Whitsunday region.
He joins a fearsome Queensland squad featuring names from Mareeba, Moura, Rockhampton, Bungandarra, Calliope, Gracemere, Athol, Cloncurry, and Bowen. His selection adds another strong North Queensland presence to the team.
By the numbers:
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🐂 Queensland boasts five undefeated PBR Origin Series titles since the series began in 2019.
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🐂 The total prize pool is $150,000, with $50,000 on offer at each event.
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🐂 The Cowboy of Origin will claim an extra $30,000 bonus at the end of the series.
Zoom In
Ahead of the main showdown, eight junior riders — four representing each state — will mount mini bulls in a special exhibition ride. Their bravery and skill offer fans a glimpse into the next generation of bull riding champions.
Zoom Out
The PBR Origin Series continues to elevate bull riding’s popularity across Australia, blending State pride with fearless competition. As a key event in Professional Bull Riders Australia’s packed schedule of more than 20 events each year, the Origin Series is a proving ground for Australian cowboys aiming for international fame.
What to look for next?
After Newcastle, the series moves to Brisbane on 7 June, then finishes with a massive finale in Sydney on 5 July. Mackay fans will be cheering loud as Brumby Brandenberg and Team Queensland aim to lock in another undefeated series win.
2025 PBR MONSTER ENERGY ORIGIN SERIES
PBR Australia Presents: PBR Monster Energy Tour – ORIGIN I – Newcastle
May 3 at 7:00 PM at Newcastle Entertainment Centre GET TICKETS
PBR Australia Presents: PBR Monster Energy Tour – ORIGIN II – Brisbane
Jun 7 at 7:00 PM at Brisbane Entertainment Centre GET TICKETS
PBR Australia Presents: PBR Monster Energy Tour – ORIGIN III – Sydney
Jul 5 at 7:00 PM at ICC Sydney Theatre GET TICKETS
