Shelford’s quirkiest race makes a splash

THE usually quiet township of Shelford will spring to life next weekend when its much-loved duck race returns.

This Sunday, 22 February, hundreds are expected to travel from across the Greater Geelong region for the volunteer-run event, which will see 1,500 rubber ducks race down the Leigh River.

The event was revived by locals in 2011 following major flooding, with the aim of raising money for affected residents.

It has since become a firm fixture on the town calendar, with market stalls and entertainment accompanying the headline race and supporting local community groups.

Shelford Duck Race president, Rebecca Jenkinson, said she was proud to see the event continue to grow.

“Seeing Shelford come alive in February is amazing.

“When I came up with the idea back in 2011 to rebirth the duck race to raise money for flood-affected residents, I had a vision to build the event to fill the oval at Shelford and showcase what a wonderful farming country town it is.

“It makes me so happy to see that vision come alive and to have such an amazing committee behind me to help make it a reality.”

Jenkinson said this year’s event would feature new stallholders, appearances from Ambulance Victoria and the SES, a roving circus performer and several musicians.

“It isn’t just an event, it is a celebration of resilience, community pride and good old country fun,” Jenkinson said.

“It is a great day out for people of all ages to come along and relax in the country atmosphere.”

Attendees can purchase a duck to enter the race, with prizes awarded to the first 10 across the line.

The event will start at 11am, with the duck race running at 3pm.