Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) is calling on residents to provide feedback on a proposal to commission a life-sized statue honouring legendary local cowboy, Mr Bob Holder.

CGRC Councillors Collins, Kelly and Ryan submitted a Notice of Motion at the April meeting to investigate the commissioning of the bronze statue. Those investigations and assessments are currently being undertaken with feasibility studies, exploration of relevant funding sources and consultation with Mr Holder and his family.

Bob Holder, known affectionately as the “Cootamundra Cat,” is not only a local legend but also a figure of national and international acclaim. His legacy in the rodeo world spans over seventy years, during which he has competed at the highest levels, including a historic performance at Madison Square Garden in New York.  As the world’s oldest active rodeo competitor, Mr. Holder embodies the spirit, resilience, and courage of rural Australia.

Commissioning a statue in Mr Holder’s honour was considered as a unique opportunity for CGRC to pay tribute to a living legend who has represented Cootamundra with distinction. This tribute would act as a permanent recognition of his lifetime of achievement and character, cementing his legacy in the heart of the community that shaped him.

CGRC mayor Cr Abb McAlister said the proposal aligns with how CGRC has recognised other icons and the benefits of such a project are significant.

“I urge residents to participate in the community feedback sort for this project, honouring Bob not only celebrates his extraordinary achievements it also recognises what makes Cootamundra truly special,” Cr McAlister said.

Community feedback can be submitted by visiting the CGRC website and follow this link staging.cgrc.nsw.gov.au/community-engagement complete the survey or scan the QR code.

Picture and caption:

An artist’s impression of the proposed statue of Cootamundra legend Mr Bob Holder. The community is asked to provide feedback on the proposal.