DESPITE some wet weather bringing an early end to the 2022 Myrtleford Rodeo, organisers hailed the Boxing Day event a huge success.

The rodeo, last held in 2019 when it was recognised by the Australian Professional Rodeo Association with a Hall of Fame award, is one of the oldest in Australia, having started in 1954.

Secretary Darren Murphy said the crowd was roughly 2000 strong over the course of the day and the rain didn't put a damper on the fun.

"I'd say the day was a great success, we managed to put it on and people came which was outstanding," he said.

"We had good competitor numbers; close to 200, and it was great to be back after a two year absence.

"The slight dampener was the weather gave everyone a shower before they went home, which ended our program before some rough stock events like the bull riding and the $6k shootout so we'll pocket that and keep it for next year.

"The competitors who didn't compete will be refunded.

"I also feel for the local food vendors who came to support us and made food to sell in the evening which wasn't possible and I think we missed out on a bit of our crowd too but the footy club barbecue cleaned up when everyone was sheltering from the rain.

"Overall the event was a success and this will definitely be one that everyone will talk about for a long time.

"I'm just glad we were able to do it for the community and our visitors; the whole point of the event is giving back."

President Mick Cross presented Darren with his own golden spurs on the day, to thank him for his 10 years of service to the rodeo.

"Darren is such a great contributor to the community on a whole range of things but specifically the rodeo, with 10 years straight as secretary," he said.

"It's a huge job, lots of work and we just wanted to recognise that commitment.

"He does so much for locals, he's a very community minded person."

The rodeo is run by the Lions Club of Myrtleford, who will use the proceeds for charitable Lions programs and to help local communities affected by recent floods.