Composed and shared by Ceduna Old Photos, Sue Trewartha and Erica Bodger.

WCS. 1 June 1949. Streaky Bay. The show tent was packed to capacity when Buddy Williams, Australia’s cowboy star, introduced his Wild West Rodeo at Streaky Bay. There were no dull moments in the action packed variety programme which was most enthusiastically received, Johnny Dunn, of Bairds Bay, was the only local lad who attempted to ride the noted buckjumper Chain Lightening. Although he failed to remain in the saddle for the prescribed 10 seconds, to win £10, Dunn’s attempt was highly appreciated. The unsuccessful attempts by numerous school boys, not to mention Dunn, Lester Cotton and Clem Atkins, to ride the mules brought roars of laughter as the little animals disposed of their burdens in no uncertain manner…

Wudinna. That the age of chivalry is not passed was proved at Wudinna… by Buddy Williams… Garry Rowley, son of Mr and Mrs Lance Rowley… is a real hill billy exponent and had for some time looked forward to his parents taking him to the rodeo. On the day of the show Garry was ill and could not attend. Wishing to lessen the lad’s disappointment, his father came to Wudinna and saw Buddy, with the idea that either he might persuade him to go out and see the boy or send some message. He little expected the spontaneous response, Buddy immediately offered to visit the boy and eventually spent over two hours playing and yodelling to him. In addition he listened to Garry’s numbers and taught him several new items. Upon Mr Rowley pressing to pay him, Buddy replied that he would not consider taking anything as it would be a poor world if one could not brighten the life of another at some time…

WCS. 24 September 1958. Advertising: Buddy Williams and Gill Bros Combined Show. A top line western variety show. See and hear Buddy sing his songs, old and new. Supported by the cream of Australia’s rough riders and buckjumpers, rope spinners, whipcrackers, sharp shooter, clowns and the largest herd of Zebu cattle in Australia…

Thanks to Reva Best for sharing this photo of Buddy Williams.

Gordon Parsons