By Ewa Chwojko-Srawley
Sutton’s High Street quacked with energy on July 12. Despite the heat, the crowd was out in full splash—I mean, force—to support the annual Kinette Duck Race.
Ward 4 Councillor Dale Genge was there from early morning, lending a hand wherever needed. “Fantastic day!” she says. “Top moment? I dunked Debbie Balinas’ husband in a tank of water in one throw!”
She adds, “Big thanks to the Sutton BIA, the Kinette Club, the Keswick Optimists, and every volunteer who helped bring the festival to life. It’s amazing what happens when a whole town pitches in.”
One of the organizers, Debbie Balinas, shares, “We keep adding new fun every year. This time we had a Bed Race, thanks to the Optimist Club (first place went to the Keswitches) and we brought in the Bubble Girl, who burbled her bubbles over the captivated crowd. Pure magic!”
Maybe next year they’ll add a new contest: Name Your Duck! Some people are already ahead of the game: Debbie will call hers “Sweepy Duck”, while Elaine, owner of Black River Coffee, will call her caffeinated contender, “Cappuccino Cupcake Duck.”
Elaine Coates, fellow organizer, adds, “We’ve got more volunteers too — from Scouts to the Chamber, and Georgina Cares.”
One of the volunteers was Meghan Bold, a regular helper at local events but a first-timer at this one. She was posted at the dunk tank, laughing as kids sent brave adults into the water. “So much fun! I’ll definitely be volunteering again!” she says.
Among the first-time visitors were Farah Karachiwala and her family from Keswick. “Debbie is our neighbour, and she dropped off a flyer about this event— so glad she did!” says Farah. Her husband, Rohit Pereira, adds, “We love everything here, the bouncy castle, the sprinklers, painting the school bus, the food!” Their 6-year-old son Amir chimes in, “I love the lollipops, and I’m excited about the duck race!” His 5-year-old brother, Adam, agrees – and adds that he also likes the free toys!
Debbie and Elaine summed it up well: “Everything’s so expensive these days, so we’re excited to offer this free event. It’s wonderful to see families come out, have fun, and not spend a dime.”
As the last duck crossed the finish line, one thing was clear: this town knows how to throw a party — with heart, bubbles, and a healthy dose of quackery.
See you next year. Quack!
- Record-Breaking Crowds Dance and Feast at The Georgina Pow Wow - October 2, 2025
- A Weekend of Creativity, Conversation, and Surprises: Georgina Studio Tour 2025 - October 2, 2025
- The North Dance Company opens location in Keswick - October 2, 2025
