Noonamah Tavern Rodeo holds moving tribute to Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson after helicopter crash

Territory rodeo has paid tribute to Outback Wrangler crew member, Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson, who was killed on a crocodile egg collecting expedition. Watch the moving memorial here.

FIFTEEN rodeo riders stood silently on the dirt stage, hats held in their hands, exposing their sorrow as they paid tribute to their missing cowboy.

Pausing the rodeo chaos, hundreds paid respect to the lost member of the Noonamah family, Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson.

Six months ago the 34-year-old father-of-two and Outback Wrangler crew member was killed in a helicopter crash on a crocodile egg collecting expedition.

On Saturday night, announcer Kalvin Kempster said the “Territory legend” died “doing what he loved”.

“He was a bushman, a wild man, a larrikin and a character,” he said.

“Willow mate, we miss you here tonight. Your big personality and cheering from the crowd will be missed.”

Noonamah Rodeo 2022

Looking down from the stands were Willow’s “pride and joys”, his widow Dani and Ted and Austin.

Dani started to tear up as she cradled one-year-old Austin in her arms.

The rim of four-year-old Ted’s hat was barely visible over the barrier as the “little cowboy” watched the teary tribute to his father.

Dani Wilson with Ted and Austin at Noonamah Rodeo 2022. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

Willow’s absence was clear at the Noonamah rodeo – he was the one unfilled schooner, the one less cheer from the crown, one less mate to spot in the crowd.

A loved one said: “He was the kind of person that knew half the crowd, and most of the time was the last man standing at the end of a great night.”

Mr Kempster said Willow’s earthmoving company, Northern Australia Civil, was a loyal sponsor to the Noonamah rodeo for many years.

“Willow was a supporter of all rodeos in the Territory – but I will say this one was by far his favourite,” Mr Kempster said.

“He never missed a rodeo.

“You would always find Willow here and amongst it all.

“It was a passion for him and we sincerely miss you.”

The traditionally family-friendly event made a special exemption for Willow – as no tribute to the born-and-bred Territory lad would be fitting without a fair share of expletives.

A video played to the crowd showed highlights of Willow in his element – swearing and joking as he climbed through the mud, driving his truck and sitting with mates on the show, Outback Wrangler.

Laughing along with his cheeky quips, the crowd watched as Willow was brought to life once again on the screen.

Finishing his speech, Mr Kempster called on the crowd to remember Willow in a way fitting to the Territory character.

“If everyone can raise their glass and have a cheers to the big man all the way up there,” he said.

“Willow – Forever 34 mate. Never forgotten.”

Originally published as Noonamah Tavern Rodeo holds moving tribute to Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson after helicopter crash