Local family lights up Chevallum and spreads hope at Christmas

Since 2014, Chevallum Road residents have become accustomed to seeing the growing Christmas lighting display at 347 Chevallum Road Christmas grow, and this year will be the biggest display so far.

“We started with about 6,000 lights in the first year, and now in our 11th year we should get to 240,000 lights,” said property owner, Paul West.

Paul and his wife Carmen have created the Coast’s largest drive through Christmas light experience, which has become a Christmas ‘must do’ for people of all ages.

“We have added new lights and pieces every year and visitors can tune their radio to FM 987 and listen to Christmas carols as they slowly travel along the 200m drive.

“We love making unique pieces, finding and adding new ideas and items to bring more bling and most importantly, seeing more smiles on faces of all ages at Christmas,” he said.

“Building a display this big is only possible with a fantastic team. It is a real family affair, plus a few great friends who love us (even in December!) and lend a hand.”

The West family are driven by a desire to give back to the community and have donated in excess of $52,145 since 2016. Some of the recipients of those funds include SU Qld School Chaplaincy, Lifebread Fiji Ministries and The Shack Community Centre in Nambour.

“These are all causes that are close to our hearts,” Paul said.

Chaplains, or ‘chappies’, provide spiritual and emotional support to school communities. They are in the prevention and support business; helping students find a better way to deal with issues ranging from family breakdown and loneliness, to drug abuse, depression and anxiety.

A significant percentage of the Fijian population lives below the poverty line, and none more so than widows with no family support. Lifebread Stay Connected Fiji, advances the cause of the underprivileged by developing a residential training centre for widows enabling them to return to life with a new purpose.

“Over 30,000 people from all over the Sunshine Coast, enjoyed our display last Christmas and it's thanks to the generosity of their donations that our family are able to continue supporting those in need.”

The display will be open from December 1 to December 26, between 6.45pm and 9.30pm.

“These hours will be extended for those still waiting to see the lights,” said Paul. “As we get closer to Christmas, the wait tends to be longer, so if you can come earlier in the month, there will be less waiting time.”

New for this year is Tap & Go for those wanting to make a electronic charity donations, and cash donations are still welcome .

“We are just so grateful for the generosity of those who drive through to look at the lights,” said Paul. “And we are excited for people to see our biggest display so far.”

You can find out more at www.christmaslightssunshinecoast.com.au