A man has died at a rodeo in the Southern Downs after he fell from the bull he was riding and was kicked by the animal's back legs.
The 25-year-old from New South Wales was competing in the novice bull-riding competition at the Warwick New Year's Eve Show at about 8pm on Saturday.
Police and paramedics said he was taken to Warwick Hospital with serious chest injuries, where he died.
Jason Hall, chair of the National Rodeo Association, was announcing the event.
"He was bucked off his bull about halfway through the ride and the bull's back feet came in contact with the competitor," he said.
"As far as protective equipment, he was wearing a helmet and a protective vest – he was taking all the precautions.
"But they are obviously to help limit any injury, it can't obviously prevent everything from happening."
Mr Hall said he was unsure how much bull-riding experience the rider had.
"Novice bull-riding is actually the entry-level division," he said.
"He was what we call a day member of the National Rodeo Association – so not a permanent annual member that we saw every weekend.
"This was the first time I had seen him at a rodeo."
Mr Hall said the tragedy was already having an effect on the rodeo community.
"Most people I've spoken to are pretty upset about it. I understand the competitor had a young family, so obviously an extremely tough time for the family."
Money was raised for the family at junior rodeo events in Warwick on Sunday.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
