Duck breeder Andy Flett is one of Wimmera Poultry Club’s members who are preparing birds for sale in the club’s auction this weekend.

A keen, decades-long breeder of Australian species the Elizabeth, three years ago Mr Flett wrote a handbook three years ago to celebrate 50 years of the breed.

“It was the first domestic Australian breed of waterfowl that was developed,” he said.

“People were looking to breed a quick-growing meat duck that would be suitable for two people, and in the process of breeding for that, the Elizabeth popped up, so they went with it and developed the breed from there.”

Mr Flett, who breeds his ducks to show, said the Elizabeths are popular at poultry shows around the country. 

“A couple of years ago I was at the Sydney Royal and had the champion reserve Elizabeth – I only took two birds,” he said.  

“I went more to promote my book, so it was a nice result for a long trip.”

Mr Flett’s interest in ducks started in high school – more than 30 years ago.

While his ducks are less social than chicken, Mr Flett said there were backyard benefits.

“Ducks are great for the garden, but it depends on the time of year,” he said.

“They will go through and clean up, so it’s best to wait until the tomatoes, cabbages and lettuces have finished.”

Mr Flett prepares his ducks for showing by handling them as a judge would.

“I have the process of getting them used to being in a cage, pulling them out, and pulling their wings out to look them over,” he said.

Wimmera Poultry Club’s poultry, birds, pets and sundries auction is at Natimuk Showground from 11.30am Sunday. The live-call auction will take place via livestream to the football clubrooms.

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