Upstairs Art - King of the Ranges - Murrurundi

Welcome to "The King Of The Range's Stockman's Challenge", which offers a unique opportunity for stockmen and women to compete against the best, over three days in a variety of traditional stockmen's events.

With trophies, prizes and cash to be won, the competition will be strong and intense. Both men and women will be~ competing head to head to be crowned the 2008 King; Of The Ranges Stockman's Challenge winner. A junior competition is for 15 to 17 year olds, and they will be sashed the Junior Winner also receiving prizes and cash.

Enjoy our true blue bush festival over the three days.,' We have organised this festival to make sure that everyone has the best time possible both day and night in beautiful Murrurundi, the Crown of the Hunter. We certainly look forward to a great event and festival and wish all competitor's the best of luck during the, challenge.

ARCHIE "BUNG" McINNES

The inspiration for the challenge, Arch was known throughout the Hunter Valley and, Northwest Region as - "The King of the Ranges" for his, ability to track and catch wild brumbies and cattle in the ranges around Glenrock Station, east of Scone. At the outbreak of WW1, Arch joined the 1st Battalion Light Horse, was seriously wounded at the Battle of Beersheba and decorated with the Military Medal. He returned after the war and continued his life as a champion buckjumper and stockman. Arch was a true bush legend and his spirit lives on with this iconic Australian event.

Rodney Swansborough drew chiaroscuro portraiture at the King of the Ranges - an example of his style is above. Rodney underakes commissions. He illustrated his drawing technique during the event and atttacted a lot of interest.