Gerringong Men’s Shed is once again organising its Duck Race, which has over a short time become a popular holiday institution for locals and visitors.

“It is a great family event,” says the Shed’s President Graham Hanna.

“People have a lot of fun cheering on their adopted duck, and it helps us raise funds to buy tools and supplies for our Shed.”

If you miss out on adopting a duck in the leadup to the event, when the Shedders sell tickets at various locations around Gerringong, there will be a supply for sale on the day.

“We’ll have two races on the day,” explains Graham.

“Each has a number to correspond to the tickets sold.

“The person who has adopted the winning duck in each race will take home $500.”

The term ‘adopted’ is used, because people aren’t buying a duck to take home – merely having temporary ownership for the duration of the race.

The ducks will be released at the bend of the river, and head east to finish near the footbridge, tide dependent.

“We’ve worked out over the years that this is generally the best route for them.

“They need a bit of shepherding along the way by our members, until they get a clear run for home.”

The first race will kick off at 11am, but the Men’s Shed will be there earlier with their famous sausage sizzle, and a lucky duck wheel of chance.

There will also be a prize for the best dressed Duck.

2019 has been a busy year for the Gerringong Men’s Shed, with the completion of a number of community projects.

These have included the picnic tables for the beautification of Arthur Campbell Reserve, a seat in memory of Jean Peterborough for Gerringong Golf Club, planter boxes for Coastal Cottage Kindergarten and the repainting of flower boxes at Mayflower Uniting.

“We would like to invite anyone who would like to come and see what the Shed has to offer, so they can enjoy the camaraderie and participate in the work the shed does,” says Graham.

“We meet at the rear of Cronin’s Oval every Tuesday and Thursday between 9am and 12.00 noon and everyone is welcome.”

Details: Friday 3 January, Crooked River, Gerroa,10am