By Melissa Coleman
The Custom Western Saddlemakers Expo at the Stanthorpe Showground Pavilion saw 400 visitors and 13 competitors attend the inaugural event.
The inception of the expo came about after custom saddlemaker Trevor Able saw a need in Queensland for an industry exhibition.
“The United States have several Trade Fairs each year,” Mr Able said.
“I’ve always held the American saddlemakers in high regard and like to try and emulate their work, to improve my own.”
Although the main objective of the Expo was to bring saddlemakers together in an environment framed with creativity, Mr Able said it was also a chance to have a friendly competition.
In total, 13 saddlemakers entered into four different sections.
“There was a fully tooled section which was judged on how well the saddle is elaborately carved and tooled,” Mr Able said.
“The Rough Out category, which is when the saddle leather is turned rough-side up.
“There was also a novice section for saddlemakers who had built less than 20 roping saddles and finally a Rawhide Braided section,” he said.
Fully Tooled section winner – Trevor Able from The Summit.
Rough Out section winner – Ben Morrow from Tenterfield.
Novice section winner – Damen Lowrie from Wandai.
Rawhide Braid section winner – Chris Barr from Toowoomba.
Another section was judged by visitors.
The People’s Choice award went to Matthew Sue-tin from Warwick.
Trophy’s and a side of leather were awarded to each winner from Toowoomba Saddlery.
“Rob Delbridge from Toowoomba Saddlery has been a great support this year along with the judges, Tony Gifford, John Barton and Ben Morrow.”
“We are grateful for their sponsorship and their time,” Mr Able said.
Because of the success of the Expo arrangements for next year are already underway to make it even bigger and more inclusive.
“Next year we will be including a stock saddle section into the competition,” Mr Able said.
“This will open the event up to saddlemakers who do not make roping saddles.”
“There will be more trade booths highlighting the work of silversmiths, knife, tool and leather makers and stalls from hardware and tool supply companies that supply our industry,” he said.
Another highlight moving into 2023 is the Colt Starting Clinic with Anthony Deseraux.
The Custom Western Saddlemakers Expo 2023 will be held September 1-3 at the Stanthorpe Showgrounds Pavilion.
