Duck race returning to benefit Shelford learners, groups

AS many as one thousand, two hundred rubber ducks will be let loose on the Leigh River when the popular Shelford Duck Race returns on Sunday 23 February.

At least 3000 people are expected to turn out for the annual fundraiser in support of the local cricket club, primary school and progress association, with the day scheduled to start at 11am.

It will be based at the Shelford Cricket Club property in The Parade Road.

Apart from missing 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the race and family day has been held every year since 2011.

Duck race president Rebecca Jenkinson said the race day was originally organised when the river flooded the township.

“Within six weeks of the river going down we had an event up and running for the duck race to raise money for the school, which was affected, the cricket club and a couple of local properties as well,” she said.

“After that it was ‘let’s keep going,’ and here we are today.”

The three organisations remain the event’s main beneficiaries, and each received more than $3000 last year.

“It was quite a success, so hopefully we can do that again,” Ms Jenkinson said.

The race itself will take place at 3pm, with the winning ‘owner’ to receive prizemoney of $1200.

A sliding scale of cash prizes will also be awarded down to sixth place.

Ducks will begin the race at a point in the river at the top end of the cricket ground, with the township bridge the official finish line.

Ducks can be bought for $10 each on the day, but Ms Jenkinson said getting in early through the event’s Facebook page is a good idea.

They can also be bought from representatives of the school, the cricket club and the progress association.

Ms Jenkinson said the number of ducks available had been increased from 1000 in previous years to 1200 because they usually sell out before noon.

Apart from the race, activities will include a roving magician, a ropes course by the local Scouts group, SES and CFA demonstrations, live music, stalls, amusement rides, food and drink, and a Show-n-Shine competition for cars and other vehicles.

The winner of that, chosen by a people’s choice vote, will receive a trophy.

Ms Jenkinson said it was difficult to gauge attendance figures, but 3000 seemed to be a consistent average.

“But the more the merrier,” she said.

Ms Jenkinson said the official time for the day’s conclusion is 4pm, but that is only approximate.

“It depends on how fast the duck race is,” she said. “If we’ve got a head wind it’s a little bit slower, and depending on how much water is in the river.

“The race could be 30 minutes to an hour.”

Check the event’s Facebook page for updates.