Hamilton police hosted the duck derby to help raise money for Hamilton’s Naomi Phillips, who has been diagnosed with terminal liver cancer. 

Mrs Phillips is a nurse and her husband Mark a police sergeant. They are the parents of Abbey, 16, Riley, 13, and six-year-old twins Matilda and Hamish. 

Hamilton police Senior Constable Jo Van Wegen said about 300 people attended the derby, held on Saturday.

“We raised $10,000 through the sale of ducks alone,” she said.

“An event like this shows what a little town can do when times get tough. We pull together when we need to and help support those who really need it.”

Sergeant Phillips said he was overwhelmed with the turn out. 

“We weren’t really sure what to expect, but it drew a fair crowd and it was really great to see so many people down there getting involved or just having a bit of a look,” he said. 

“We also had the opportunity to thank a lot of people for their support. It was an incredible day.

“I’m sure that if the community was interested, we could make sure the derby continues on for someone else in need.”  

 Senior Constable Van Wegen thanked the Hamilton community for their involvement.

“Thankyou to our main organiser Senior Constable Gina Gilchrist, to Portland police for supplying the ducks, to all of our local businesses who donated so generously, and to the public who turned out and made it such a successful event,” she said. 

Donations can be made, here. 

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