ONE of Logan’s – and indeed the Brisbane region’s – biggest Christmas lights displays is at Edens Landing.
At Lucy Drive, Robert and Sheree Hobson have been putting on their Christmas lights show for more than 14 years, with people travelling hours to see their display every year.
Mrs Hobson said it all started with a simple string of lights.
“In 2008, we were beginners and started off with a string of lights and a small nativity scene,” she said.
“In 2009, we went a bit bigger but never thought it would turn into an attraction. We just thought it was a neighbourhood thing.
“Now we can’t leave this place.”
Mrs Hobson said each year the display got bigger, so they started entering competitions. The couple have now won several Christmas light competitions over 10 years, this year adding a $5000 prize as winners of the southern division the KIIS 97.3 KIISmas Lights Competition.
“We might use it (prize money) to buy some more lights, or maybe some coffee or sleep would be in order first.”
Mrs Hobson said while her husband is the handyman putting everything up and plugging things in, she makes a lot of the scenes and characters herself and their 8-year-old grandson helps too.
“We have the basics that we put up every year and we just modify things,” she said.
“When we first started our bigger displays we made a big joy sign for the front of the yard, we had to make things ourselves because we couldn’t find what we wanted in store, and we can’t use blow up things here because it’s windy up on this hill.
“This is what we do, and we love it.”
Mrs Hobson said this year’s display is very interactive.
“We have loved having the crowds come in to look at everything, so we have made different photo shoot areas for people to come and take photos, we also have a Santa sleigh, trains, penguins, characters and so much more,” she said.
“People have grown up with us, they came here when they were kids and now they have kids, it’s beautiful.
“It really sets my heart aflame to see everyone enjoying themselves.”
Mr and Mrs Hobson said they still aren’t done yet for this year’s display.
