Christmas lights Brisbane 2017: Power prices affecting displays

CHRISTMAS spirit is under fire as soaring power prices and high rates of theft and vandalism force families to opt out of their festive light displays.

Peter Boddy at his Bulimba home says power prices have made him change his display. Picture: AAP Image/Steve Pohlner

CHRISTMAS spirit is under fire as soaring power prices and high rates of theft and vandalism force families to opt out of their festive light displays.

Andrea Attree runs an online group dedicated to Christmas light spotting in Cairns and said the number of participants had significantly dropped this year, with many concerned about high power prices and vandalism.

“They say they’d like to but they just can’t afford to this year because of the power prices,” Ms Attree said

“The power hike also makes it hard for families who want to do this, especially those who want to do it on a larger scale.”

Ray and Christine Robertson with their children Fletcher, Charity and Poppy setting up their lights at their Grange home. Picture: AAP Image/Josh Woning

Peter and Sue Boddy have been putting on a spectacular light display at Bulimba for about 20 years and said power prices had made them change their set-up.

“I’m using a lot more solar lights than I used to because of the cost of electricity,” Mr Boddy said. “I have solar power on the roof and I don’t pay a bill all year except for Christmas time. We’re still putting on ours this year but I’m sure the power price will scare some people off.”

Ray and Christine Robertson have already started putting up their festive display at their Grange home.

“We don’t have the biggest yard in the world but what yard and what house frontage we do have will be pretty well lit up,” Mr Robertson said.

“I talk to a lot of people who say they’ve had a lot of vandalism but we haven’t so touch wood that trend continues.

“As far as the power goes it’s a consideration, but we were fortunate to have put in some solar panels so we figure it kind of cancels itself out.”

Tim Brinums owns festive light store Christmas Alight and said people had made the transition to LED and solar as traditional incandescent lights used more power. Sheree and Robert Hobson say their award-winning Eden’s Landing lights display is worth the expense.

“A lot of people come just to see the lights and it makes them feel joy and peace. Some people get quite emotional,” he said.