Santa in a canoe has braved the elements to take first prize in ‘Light Up CH’ 2022 Christmas light

The 35 entries and almost 2000 voters for this year’s Light Up Central Highlands competition have taken the competition to a new level, with displays with Santa’s antics causing a stir.

The Central Highlands has turned it on for Christmas this year, with 35 entrants and nearly 2000 votes lodged for the region’s annual ‘Light Up CH’ competition.
From a live calf soaking up cuddles in the nativity scene to Santa kayaking his way to his delivery route, there was no shortage of magical moments.

Gloria Jean’s Emerald staff member Ellina Colaivalu, who moved to the region from Sydney, said she was surprised to see such electric passion for decorating homes and business throughout December.

“It was very unique, it was very vivid,” Ms Colaivalu said.

“I loved how everyone went all out, how it showed Christmas spirit.

“I didn’t think anyone would go all out but this was very surprising to see everyone having Christmas spirit.”

Ms Colaivalu said the real standout was the display with a real calf for spectators to pet.

“They had lights everywhere, Santa Claus, baby Jesus, everything,” Ms Colaivalu said.

With winners announced and Santa’s arrival imminent, now is the perfect time to tour the best displays.

Light Up CH 2022 winners:

• People’s Choice Award – 23 Birt Street, Blackwater
• Beryl Callaghan Award – 34 Gregory Street, Springsure
• First Place, East – 23 Edward Street, Duaringa
• Second Place, East – 8 Colliery Street, Bluff
• First Place West/Central – 48 Kidd St, Emerald
• Second Place West/Central – 22 Vicki Close, Emerald
• First place Northern – 14 Moran Street
• First place Southern – 46 Meteor Street, Rolleston
• Second place Southern – 27 Warrijo Street, Rolleston
• Best Business winner – 9 Comet Street, Rolleston; runner up – 984 Rubyvale Road, Gemfields
• Rural and surrounds winner – 24742 Capricorn Hwy, Emerald; runner up -The Firs, Willows

The judges of the event included Central Highlands Mayor Kerry Hayes and councillors Charlie Brimblecombe, Anne Carpenter, and Megan Daniels.

Ms Daniels found the Santa in canoe who came to be paddling in a canoe on dry land after one of the recent major rainfalls the area experienced.

Even Santa was affected by the recent heavy rainfall in the Central Highlands area.

“My kids and I look forward to this competition every year,” Ms Daniels said.

“It’s a wonderful way to meet your neighbours, and a great excuse to go out for an evening walk.

“I love how every year the competition gets better, and more people get involved.”

Mr Brimblecombe said the imaginative flair in entries was astounding.

“I was really impressed by the level of creativity and festive spirit,” Mr Brimblecombe said.

“There was everything from an inflatable Santa riding a shark, to moving light shows and music.”