Ferret racing at Henley-on-Mersey creates great excitement and anticipation amongst the audience but is also steeped in tradition.
The practice was that a ferret would be placed down a rabbit hole and with due fervour seek out the rabbit, which trys to escape through another outlet only to be caught by a net over same. Many properties in the district were originally purchased thanks to the efforts of ferreting and the resulting rabbit pelt income.
At Henley-on-Mersey this is imitated with ferrets placed in one end of a pipe with the first ferret to fully emerge from the pipe at the other end being declared the winner.
The highlight of the aquatic activities is the Betta Milk Race where crafts constructed from Betta Milk containers are precariously raced on the river to the enthusiastic support of patrons.
The conduct of the highly successful Bell's Parade Triathlon will also be held. Further information is available online from Cradle Coast Triathlon.
Other activities include Archery Competition, Whip Cracking demonstration, Egg Throwing Competition, Sheaf Tossing Competition, Triathlon, Heritage Display, The Royal Australian Navy Band, Tasmanian Detachment and Latrobe Federal Band, Ferret Chocolate Wheel, Great Aussie Cherry Spit Competition, Wood Chopping, Remote Control Boats, Nearest the Pin Golf Competition, Historic Machinery, Veteran Cars, Helicopter rides, Gumboot Throwing Competition, Children's Novelty Race
Disclaimer: Event details may change at any time. Please review the official website or check with the
event organizer when planning to attend the event.
