Jeff Lunn and Leon McCormack, are better knowns as the Christmas Lights Guys. They have been running a Christmas lights display for 17 years, something that was inspired by their childhood experiences.
“When I was growing up, mum and dad used to take us around to the houses and suburbs. I thought, ‘Yeah, I could give that a go all right.’ So, I did. I used to put lights up for my folks, and for my grandparents,” Jeff says.
“Leon was a bit of grinch the first few years, but now, now he's totally on board,” Jeff laughs.
A popular feature of their display, is the music that accompanies the many lights. They use a system called Light-O-Rama to synchronise the lights with the music, a practice they've maintained for 12 to 15 years. And just how many lights do they have?
“We have a four bay car garage that’s full of Christmas lights,” Leon says.
Despite the extensive setup, they have zero electricity bills due to 53 solar panels, which eliminate their worries about costs. And thank goodness, because in one year their display blew the main telegraph pole, leading to a total power outage in the area!
“In the early days we had simple gatherings with pizza and swims, but they’ve grown into the large-scale events you now see,” Jeff says.
The display attracts many local visitors, including those from Townsville, and is one of the most significant in the Burdekin area.
This year their display features new additions like an airplane and helicopter on the roof, along with other new features, including a flashing Merry Christmas sign. The Lions Club holds sausage sizzles, and Santa visits on Christmas Eve and the day before.
“We do this every year just for the pure enjoyment of seeing the excitement on the kids’ faces and the joy it brings people,” they both say.
Be sure to check out Jeff and Leon’s amazing Christmas lights display, located on the corner of Darwin and Edwards Streets, opposite the Ayr Golf course.
Leon and Jeff, the ‘Christmas Lights Guys’. Photo credit: Mark T. Rasmussen
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2023 Burdekin Life Pty Ltd.
