Part 6 - Arena Selection and Use
Arena, Chutes and Yards
The veterinarian and the stock contractor must be assured that the arena, chutes, yards and races will not compromise the animals’ welfare.
Surfaces
The stock contractor is responsible for ensuring the arena surface provides traction, stability, reduction of shock and improved safety for personnel and livestock.
In general, the standard arena should be a suitable, soil-based surface, rotary-hoed or softened to a depth of about 8-10cm, and must be free of rocks, holes and obstacles.
Other surfaces may be used if they are well drained, provide secure footing and are at least as safe for the animals as an appropriate soil-based surface.
Size
Too small an area for an event creates a danger to livestock, competitors and spectators. The arena must be big enough for the events taking place.
Fencing
The rodeo organiser is responsible for fencing around the arena. The stock contractor must inspect and approve fencing before the rodeo. A stock contractor supplying the fencing is also responsible for its suitability.
Careful planning and construction of arenas will make handling and removing stock easier, and will also increase stock, competitor and public safety. The top rail of arenas should be made of steel to prevent breakage in the event of an attempted escape by an animal.
The construction, height and appearance of arena fencing should discourage stock from attempting to push through the fence or jump over it. There must be no protrusions on fences or gateways that are likely to cause injury.
Arena fences should be clearly visible and not appear open to the animal.
If it is thought that stock will pressure certain points of an arena more than others, care should be taken to ensure that the fencing is suitable.
Portable arenas
Portable arenas must have suitably braced and secure panels. The minimum height should be 1.8 metres. A stock contractor supplying fencing, yards or chutes is responsible for ensuring that they comply with these standards.
Fixed arenas
Fixed arenas should be of secure construction and flush on the inside. If cable is used in steel arenas, it should be strained and the space between the cables should not be wide enough to allow stock to pass through it. The minimum height should be at least 1.6 metres.
Time-event chute
The time-event chute for steer wrestling must be at least 75cm wide at the animal’s head height in the chute and when the gate is open.