Col Johnson continues Lavington Christmas lights tradition at new Thurgoona home

After 28 years on Tracy Street, Mr Johnson has moved to a new house in Thurgoona, but it hasn't brought about the end of his Christmas tradition.

What started out as a challenge set by his sons, Travis and Matt, when they were doing a family Christmas light drive-by almost three decades ago, has grown into an annual extravaganza of lights and decorations and appearances by Santa.

Mr Johnson's Tracy Street residence was known to many as the "Santa house" and he was very eager to see it continue.

"Many of my early-days visitors are now returning with their children and I can't just stop the tradition, especially after the disruptive year we've had in 2020," Mr Johnson said.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Many of the decorations Mr Johnson has made are from drawings and pictures he has found.

His wife, Kaylene, and sons often comment that the finished products are quite good given that he is slightly colour-blind.

With the move in July, Mr Johnson replaced a few of his older decorations with new ones, whilst restoring others with a splash of paint or a completely new coat.

Mr Johnson devised a well-thought-out plan for his display to work at his new house and will have his lights switched on nightly from 8.30pm right up until Christmas and beyond.

He has also arranged for Santa to visit each night from Monday, December 21.

Mr Johnson's display can be found in Heppner Court, near Thurgoona Plaza.