On Wednesday they, along with other Central Highland Combine members, had sent pigeons to the last two races of the 2008 season, the 700-mile Bon Bon, and 600-mile Woomera races.

At two minutes to one, they noticed their 700-mile winner of the Bon Bon race from last year was home.

This little blue chequer hen with sprinkles of white on her head had flown the hardest race twice.

There was even more excitement that night. When the clocks were read she had not only won the club race, but was first in the whole combine.

Seven other pigeons were also home to Ballarat based flyers.

The Bird of the Year 2008 title goes to the winner of the 700-mile - the longest race in the season.

Sunday saw flyers with eyes skyward, six pigeons made it home by Sunday night, in the 600-mile race from Woomera. The combine winner is from the Beckers and Mahoney partnership, who race with Ballarat West Club.

At seven on Monday morning Jack Stubbs had the first bird home, from Woomera. A blue chequer, yearling cock bird. At the time of going to press we think this bird will be the winner in Daylesford and sixth in the Central Highland Combine.

Flyers are now mating up their stock birds for the 2009 racing season.

We would like to issue an invitation to new flyers to join our club. Perhaps you have a few pet pigeons at home. Why not turn your hobby into a sport. Current members will give new members all the help possible to set them on a successful flying path.

Details: 5345 8318.