Giant Duck Takes On Ocean Odysseys
At Perth’s Coogee Beach early on March 11, the Cockburn Masters Swimming Club’s superstar mascot, Daphne the Diamond‑Yellow Duck, set out on a spontaneous solo adventure that left the community both baffled and amused.
The Escape of the Mighty McDuck
Organs preparing for the local carnival spotted the caravan‑sized, sky‑high inflatable feather flying off the shore at break‑of‑day. Club chief Peter Marr tried to give chase, but the duck went river‑fast and vanished beyond his grasp.
- Peter’s confession: “I spent too much faith in my own speed and too little in Daphne’s desire for freedom. After 50 metres, she was gone, just like that.”
- Quote from the club president: “We’re probably anticipating a ransom note,” he joked, after revealing Daphne cost the club A$900 (S$916). “We’d look after them if they looked after us.”
The Social Media Search Party
The club splashed a post on Facebook, begging anyone/whoever to spot the runaway duck. The reward? Free passes to next year’s event, plus swim gear goodies if the quacker returns safely.
Rumor Circuit
Word on the street is that the duck may have slipped off the coast of Geraldton, a staggering 440km north of Perth. In 2007, Dutchman Florentijn Hofman first put a giant inflatable duck on the world stage – a giant 18m bath toy that toured cities from Brazil to Australia and inspired thousands of copy‑cats.
All Eyes on the Floating Legend
Will Daphne be found before the next big swim carnival? Keep your eyes peeled – the duck might still be swimming off a faraway shore or taking a scenic detour on Lake’s splashy waves. If you spot her, let the club know and earn some cool swim swag. Good luck, and enjoy the splashy chase!
