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Christmas lights competition on again: who has Albany’s best lights?

Headshot of Shannon Smith
Shannon SmithAlbany Advertiser
Ernesto Fuentebella's light display on Parker Street in Lockyer last year
Camera IconErnesto Fuentebella's light display on Parker Street in Lockyer last year Credit: Laurie Benson/Albany Advertiser, Laurie Benson

Designing and building a magical display of Christmas lights as striking as the Fuentebellas’ is a family labour of love.

On Parker Street in Lockyer, Elsie and Ernesto Fuentebella’s property finished in second place in the 2019 Albany Christmas Lights Competition, after they were nominated by their daughter.

This year, the Fuentebellas and their lights are back to bring more festive cheer.

Though they do not do it for recognition, they are likely to be one of the frontrunners in the 2020 Albany Christmas Lights Competition.

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Mr Fuentebella said they would go one step further this Christmas by opening their backyard to the public.

They will flick the switch on their lights after sunset on Friday, December 4.

“This year we decided to add a little walk-through at the back garden, where we included a nativity scene and more Christmas lights at the back for adults and children to enjoy,” he said.

“It is my wife who designs these every year, I’m just a helper.

“Actually, it’s a family effort to try and put all the Christmas lights.

“Our goal every year is to put smiles on people’s faces and help spread the Christmas spirits.

“Especially, this year with the pandemic and lockdowns, I hope that this will make people happy and enjoy the light shows.”

Mr Fuentebella said he hoped other people would create their own displays for the community to enjoy.

“I encourage people to join and add a little something for Christmas, as the more the merrier,” he said.

HOW TO ENTER

To enter, you must nominate your property before 5pm on Friday, December 11, by contacting the Advertiser.

You can call us on 9892 8363, send us an email via news@albanyadvertiser.com, or find us on Facebook.

Entries will be judged on originality, effort and appearance, with the winner announced in the Advertiser on Thursday, December 17.

The winner of the 2020 Albany Christmas Lights Competition will receive a hamper worth $250 and an official winner’s certificate.

The 2020 Albany Christmas Lights Competition is presented in partnership with the City of Albany.

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