DREAMING up a fundraising duck race, in which little yellow toy ducks compete in a dash across Moonee Creek, is a brainwave that has paid off spectacularly for the W. Short Hospitality Group.

The Coffs Coast venues managed by the Group – Toormina Hotel, Sawtell Hotel and Moonee Beach Hotel – held their inaugural ‘Great Coffs Duck Race’ on Sunday 12 March.

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“As a group we want to give back to the community we live in on the Coffs Coast and we had this idea for a fun fundraiser and just went with it,” Carl Mower, the Group GM for the three hotels told News Of The Area.

The staff got behind it and sold 250 ducks for $10 at each location, ultimately raising over $8,000.

“We wanted to give back to the community who would benefit the most.

“We looked at the serious housing crisis in Coffs Harbour where people are without accommodation and even a bed for the night.

“We found the Backpack Bed For Homeless charity which produces a backpack bed like a swag.

“And we also looked at youth mental health and chose Beyond Blue.”

Both charities each received 50 percent of the profits made from the duck race.

On the day over 200 people joined the hotel organisers on the bank of the creek and released the ducks to race across the water.

Fun for all ages was had as the duckies vied for the lead.

Winners of first, second and third places received food and beverage vouchers for the hotel group.

“Staff and management from the three venues gave up their Sunday morning to host the event as well as hotel contractors, C & R Project Management, who donated their time to cook the BBQ.

“We are already planning the next duck race, which will be in Spring this year.

“We plan to host two a year to benefit our local community and those less fortunate,” said Carl.

Thanks go to support partners Southern Cross Austereo’s Triple M, Hit FM and the Listnr app.

By Andrea FERRARI