Cowboy dies in hospital after New Years’ rodeo tragedy

A 25-year-old NSW cowboy has died after being thrown from a bull and crushed at a New Year’s Eve rodeo in Queensland overnight.

An ambulance is towed out of the arena at the Warwick New Year's Eve Rodeo after a 25-year-old cowboy was critically injured while riding a bull at the event. He later died in hospital.

A young cowboy has died while competing at a New Year’s Eve rodeo at Warwick.

Hue Mills, 25, died after being thrown from a bull and then struck by the animal at Warwick Showgrounds about 8.15pm Saturday.

Queensland Ambulance Services treated him for serious chest injuries before he was taken in a critical condition to Warwick Hospital.

The tragedy was witnessed by hundreds of spectators, with one saying it “broke my heart watching”.

National Rodeo Association chair Jason Hall said the rider had been crushed by the bull’s hind legs.

“The competitor came off about half way into the ride, the bull’s legs came down on his back,” Mr Hall said.

“It didn’t look any more serious than anything that happens every week.”

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman confirmed the NSW man had later died in the hospital.

The Warwick Show and Rodeo Society confirmed the man had been a competitor in its novice bull ride at its New Year’s Eve show.

The crowd looks on as the cowboy is assessed. Picture: Brett Wilson

Mr Hall said the rider had been wearing full protective gear including a helmet and vest.

“It was an unfortunate accident. Bull riding is a dangerous sport and everyone competing knows this is always a possibility,” he said.

“The emergency response was excellent, the first responders got to him in a matter of seconds. It’s a tragic accident.”

Mr Hall expressed his condolences to the young man’s family and encouraged people to donate money in today’s fundraiser.

Warwick Showgrounds where a man was killed in a bull riding accident on New Year's Eve. Picture: Jason McQuilty

The Warwick Show and Rodeo Society’s management committee expressed their “deepest” condolences to the man’s family and friends.

“In an effort to support the family, we will be passing the hat around today at our junior rodeo to assist in any way we can financially for the family with funeral arrangements, and where possible, any long term care for the family,” management posted on social media.

“Please understand that this is a very difficult time for the family, the society and the National Rodeo Association, so we request that the privacy of the family is upheld.”

Others have also taken to social media to pay their respects.

“I didn’t know this young man. But as a mumma of a rodeo kid my heart is broken. Sending love and prayers to his family and friends today,” one person commented.

“Deepest condolences to the family of the young bull rider who sadly passed away after suffering severe injuries. I’m sure the entire rodeo family have them wrapped in thoughts and prayers,” said another.

“Thoughts for this brave man’s family and friends. Witnessing this tragedy brought tears to my eyes and broke my heart watching,” posted another.

“What an absolute tragedy. My sincere condolences to the cowboy’s family and friends, and all who witnessed this accident,” a woman wrote.

Originally published as Cowboy dies in hospital after New Years’ rodeo tragedy