Riders from near and far competed for the crown in events that ranged from bull riding to bareback riding, saddle bronc, steer wrestling and team roping.

But, in the end, the Hunter’s roughest and toughest literally held on to victory. 

Stroud’s Jack Searle, Dungog’s junior star Tom Hudson and Tim Richardson (formerly of Gresford) all took out top spots. 

But the biggest win went to Gesford’s Cliff Richardson who won the open bull ride. 

Secretary treasurer of the Dungog Rodeo Carol-Ann Cummings said numbers at the rodeo were up compared to last year thanks to good publicity, flawless weather and the Easter holiday.

“It was packed,” she said.

“We had at least 3000 people, if not more.

“By 4pm we couldn’t fit another car into the showground.”

Ms Cummings said the large crowd was a sign the reputation was spreading beyond Dungog and attracting people from Newcastle. 

Did you snap a photo or video? Email them to jessica.brown@fairfaxmedia.com.au