Rotary Club of Central Launceston
The Rotary Club of Central Launceston is located right in the heart of Central Launceston. With a growing membership of over 55 Rotarians, this service club has supported many local organisations and charities as well as other local and worldwide Rotary causes.
We achieve this through our fundraising efforts, the main ones being the annual "Duck Race", Tamar Valley Cycle Challenge Sally’s Ride and Circus Quirkus.
The Rotary Duck Race started in 1993, with the concept of holding a plastic duck race from the suspension bridge down to the finishing line in the Gorge. The Race was known as the 7LA Duck Race raising approximately $8,000, which was donated to local charities.
Now, this once small plastic duck race is one of Launceston’s major calendar events
of the year, attracting thousands of spectators and now involves local businesses,
not for profit organisations, charities and schools. Since its inception the annual
event has donated back to charities over $250,000. Some recipients for the raised
funds in past years are Giant Steps, Canteen, Life Link, City Mission, St Giles,
St Georges Special School, Self Help, Adaptive Rowers, Sailability, New Horizons and the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Tasmania.
The event is now located on the riverbank in the Esplanade adjacent to the famous JBoag & Sons brewery and is known as the Rotary Duck Race. This year, 2011 we will be raising funds for the Royal Guide Dogs of Tasmania as well as Other Rotary Charities.
It is important to note that this event not only provides an avenue to raise funds but also provides an enjoyable event for the local community that has something for everyone from face painting, a children’s play area, side show alley, live music and dancing and plenty of food and refreshments, not to forget the unforgettable helicopter takes off with 6,000 ducks. This annual event provides a free social day out for the entire family.