ESTEVAN — The Estevan Humane Society is gearing up for the annual Judy Martin Memorial Duck Derby, which will take place on Sept. 8 at the free park in Woodlawn Regional Park. The event, one of the key fundraisers for the local non-kill shelter, will see up to 4,000 rubber ducks racing to win one lucky participant a grand prize of up to $15,000.
Estevan Humane Society president Tayja Lakusta noted that ticket sales have been strong, with more than half already sold ahead of the derby. The society introduced an early bird draw for the first time this year, which took place on Aug. 19 and left one winner $5,000 richer.
Lakusta said this initiative was well-received. It gave ticket sales a solid boost and also allowed them to have two winners.
"It gave a little kick-start for everyone to buy their tickets early," she said, adding that all early-bird tickets will still be entered in the main derby draw.
Proceeds from the event, which operates as a 50/50, will directly benefit the shelter.
"The more we sell, the more the person wins, and the more the shelter technically wins," said Lakusta.
The funds raised will go toward the shelter's general operations, including vet bills, maintenance, food supplies, etc.
Derby day promises to be a family-friendly affair with a barbecue sponsored by Weatherford, activities hosted by the Estevan Early Years Family Resource Centre, and an ice cream truck and bouncy castles from Canuckcade. In addition, the Estevan Humane Society will unveil a new logo to mark its 30th anniversary.
Tickets are available at various locations around the city, including Nutters, McComb Automotive, PAHC in Estevan, Henders Drugs and Sunset Embroidery, as well as at the shelter, through the shelter's Facebook page, by contacting Lakusta at 306-421-5970 or through contacting board members.
Lakusta also reminded the public that the shelter is still on an intake freeze, as they are at capacity for cats and dogs.
"We've got lots of puppies available for adoption, which we don't usually have, some of our longer-term residents are still in our care, and cats and kittens," Lakusta said.
"We've got cats and dogs of all ages, all personalities. So, if you're looking for a new family member now that school and routine is coming back into play here in the next two weeks, we've got lots of choices to come down and meet and see if anyone piques your interest or speaks to you, and you realize you got to have them at home."
She noted that some of their animals are on foster care, but they all are featured on their Facebook page, and arrangements can be made to meet a furry friend of choice.
Lakusta also expressed hope that once school is back, they'll see more volunteers at the shelter on a daily basis.
