Christmas Lights Map and Competition reaches thousands of residents
Published on 09 January 2021
Local residents Ben Stevenson and Ebony McGregor have been rewarded for their efforts brightening the lives of Sunraysia residents by taking out the 2020 Christmas Lights Map and Competition awards.
Mildura Rural City Council partnered with Sunraysia Daily late last year to run the competition, which was at aimed at bringing some festive joy to residents across the municipality in the lead up to Christmas.
Local residents were invited to register their address on a virtual Christmas Lights Map on Council's website, which was updated daily and published by the Sunraysia Daily twice a week.
The competition provided the community with a roadmap of bright and festive Christmas light displays to enjoy, as well as an opportunity to vote on their favourite displays.
About 90 residents registered their addresses and were voted on by about 1000 people. The online map was viewed more than 13,000 times.
At the close of voting on 2 January, Ben Stevenson's address at 3 Elizabeth Court attracted the most votes, taking out the People's Choice Award.
Ebony McGregor's address at 3112 Sixteenth Street meanwhile captured the attention of Mayor Jason Modica, taking out the Mayor's Choice Award.
Both recipients have won $500 vouchers at local shopping outlets of their choice.
Cr Modica congratulated everyone who registered, and everyone who voted in the competition.
"The Christmas lights our community adorn their properties with each year are a real highlight for many of us in the lead up to Christmas," the Mayor said.
"It's become something of a tradition for families or groups of friends to hop in the car at night and simply enjoy some of the beautifully transformed streets.
"This competition and everyone who made it possible provided some welcome joy to so many people, and at least a little touch of normality after what was a very abnormal and tough year for many of us."
Sunraysia Daily General Manager Glenn Robinson said that while the competition was a fun, light-hearted way to embrace the festive spirit in the lead up to Christmas, it also served an important role for the community.
“I think everyone would agree it’s been a tough, unprecedented 12 months, and it’s little things like this competition that give our community a boost,” Mr Robinson said.
“It provided time out from the challenges we still face, and I’m proud that we were able to partner with Council to make it happen.
“A big thank- you must also go to everyone who entered their address or voted in the competition, which is what made it such a success.”
ENDS