By Melissa Smalley
Area residents shouldn’t be too surprised if they spot a giant-sized feathered friend in town next week, according to a local member of Ducks Unlimited.
A large inflatable duck is set to land on the roof of Central GM, leading up to the Ducks Unlimited annual banquet and auction next month, says committee member Chris Nickless.
The popular banquet is set for 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 15 at the 100 Mile Community Hall, and – as is the case each year at the annual event – attendees will get the chance to enjoy a delicious meal followed by an exciting auction.
“We always promote the event as a really fun evening for people,” Nickless says. “You get a good meal, and then you get to enjoy an auction.”
This year’s banquet also includes a “Western Wear” theme, so attendees are encouraged to dig their cowboy boots, hats and belt buckles out of their closets to get in the western spirit.
There will be dozens of auction items up for grabs, including exclusive Ducks Unlimited merchandise, as well as a wide range of donations from the local business community.
The Oct. 15 event marks the major annual fundraiser for Ducks Unlimited – similar banquets also take place across the country to raise money for the conservation group – and locally, the event raises thousands of dollars each year.
Money raised goes directly towards the management of wetlands throughout British Columbia, including the 130 Mile Marsh, the 100 Mile Marsh and the Walker Valley Wetlands, Nickless explains.
Work done by the organization includes ensuring good water flow in rivers and lakes for the health and safety of water foul, among other things.
Nickless encourages anyone interested in attending to get their tickets quickly – the event almost always sells out. Ticket sales are already going well so, he notes.
Tickets are $40 and are available at Donex, 108 Mile Supermarket, Life Cycle Financial, Royal Bank and the 100 Mile House Free Press.
