Hundreds of people lined the Richmond River at Captain Cook Park on Sunday for one of Ballina’s most cheerful traditions — the annual Ballina on Richmond Rotary duck race.

Grey skies kept the temperature comfortable and the rain held off just long enough for families, businesses and community groups to enjoy a lively afternoon beside the river.

Children crowded along the promenade while adults scanned the water for their numbered ducks, hoping their bright yellow racer would be first across the finish line.

The race itself was a sight to see.

More than 1,000 plastic ducks were released off shore, bobbing and spinning as the Richmond River current carried them toward the finish line while a cheering crowd watched from the banks.

The colourful lead-up to the race was just as entertaining.

Businesses and community groups showed off their creativity in the Best Dressed Duck competition, transforming the familiar yellow toys with costumes, glitter and elaborate decorations.

Winning decorated ducks (L to R) Next Level Picture Framing (rear of photo), Banksia Boutique and Dory’s Takewaway

Best Dressed Duck winners

First place – Next Level Picture Framing
Second place – Banksia Boutique
Third place – Guardian Funerals
Highly commended – Kindred Care and Dory’s Takeaway

People’s Choice Award

First – Scoops and Candy
Second – Marine Rescue
Third – Kristopher Cook Photography
Fourth – Rainbow Children’s Centre

Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader, who helped judge the entries, said the event remained one of the most enjoyable fixtures on the local calendar.

“It’s a wonderful community day and it’s great to see so many people out enjoying themselves,” she said.

The race commentary was delivered by incoming Rotary president Phil McGuire, who admitted he had only just been recruited for the role.

“I got roped into it on Thursday night,” he laughed.

McGuire said the ducks were up for whatever conditions the Richmond River produced.

“Ducks have to be versatile in all weather and conditions,” he said.

“We’ve got ducks from all over Australia and all over the world — so it’s anyone’s race.”

And they’re off! – 1000 ducks take to the water – like ducks to water

The Ballina on Richmond Rotary Race Crew: Wayne Crawford, Phil Maguire, Jodie Shelly and Jamie Marshall

Detailed finish: the Guardian Funerals duck had a hidden crypt inside, with a graveyard and hearse

Mr Maguire said the strong turnout reflected the work Rotary members had put into promoting the event.

“The organisers have been around town promoting it for the last month or two,” he said.

“They’ve done us proud!  A really great job and Ballina loves family-friendly entertainment.”

The day also raised funds for Ballina on Richmond Rotary’s many community projects, including its ongoing campaign to end domestic violence.

The club is also celebrating a milestone year, marking its 40th anniversary of service to the Ballina community.