Rotary Club of Central Launceston
The Rotary Club of Central Launceston has just celebrated its
25th year, and with a membership on average of 50 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 one being the annual
"Duck Race". 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, and is known as the b&E
Rotary Duck Race, this year we will have raised approximately $35,000.
We have identified four major charities to receive funds from this years event,
The RSPCA, MS Society, Time Out (Youth Suicide Prevention), Dragons Abreast and The Examiner
winter relief appeal. Other Rotary Charities may also receive some funds.
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 duck carrying relay race, a children’s play area,
side show ally to a fire truck pulling competition, military vehicle display and live music.
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.