This year’s rodeo will be a special event for the family and friends of the late Ben Burch, a former resident of Cootamundra and regular rodeo entrant.

Ben died on July 26 last year after losing his battle with cancer at age 35.

A memorial buckle, which was specially made in America, will be presented to the bull rider with the highest point score at the end of the rodeo.

The special presentation will be made by members of Ben’s family.

Ben’s wife Bek said that the buckle struck in honour of her late husband will be an annual prize at the Taralga Rodeo.

Bek said the belt buckle had been organised before her husband’s death.

Taralga is a small village with a population of about 800 and was home to Ben and his family before he passed away.

Ben, or ‘Burchy’ as he was commonly referred to, was a regular competitor on the rodeo scene taking part in events throughout NSW including the once famous Cootamundra Rodeo.

Ben is the son of Jenny Burch of Wollongong and Col Burch of Tamworth, both well-known former Cootamundra residents, and the grandson of Bob and Doreen Hotson and Bob and Margaret Burch all of Cootamundra.

The Taralaga Rodeo is a three day event, which is held from Australia Day each year.

The popular rodeo features yard dog trials, a gymkhana, campdraft and bull riding events.