At just 14 years old, Dustin Dillon is making serious waves in the rodeo arena and doing it with his trademark mullet that has become just as recognisable as his riding.

A year 8 student at Narrandera High School, Dustin might be from a small country town, but he is competing on a national level.

He’s currently ranked sixth in Australia for Junior Steer Riding and an impressive 15th across All-Round Cowboy, a huge achievement.

Since October 2025, Dustin and his mother, Mel Freund, have been clocking up the kilometres, travelling to more than 20 rodeos across the NSW and Victorian circuits.

It has been a relentless schedule of long drives, late nights, and early starts, all amidst a national fuel crisis.

Helping her son’s dream become a reality, Mel’s support has been extraordinary and it has paid off.

Dustin has officially qualified for the Australian Professional Rodeo Association - APRA National Finals and they’re set to hit the road again.

This time they’re embarking on the 1500km trek to Emerald, Queensland.

We are so proud of Dustin (and his iconic mullet).

He has earned his place among the country’s best cowboys and we will be cheering from afar on July 10 and 11 as the chute opens to one of biggest events of his life.

Good luck, Dustin.

Dustin is proudly sponsored by: Circle J Horsemanship, Fully Gripped, Buck & Boar Hunting and Dog Accessories, and McDonald's Saddlery.