Final Year for Beloved Boronia Display
A much-loved Christmas light display in Rawdon Court, Boronia, will end this year after three decades. Known far and wide, the house at the top of the court is adorned with more lights than the Milky Way. The owner, Brett, has confirmed this season will be the final one. For those unfamiliar with Rawdon Court, bar a handful of exceptions, the celebration and spectacle that takes place annually is supported and embraced by the residents themselves. This collaboration, co-operation and collective spirit is everything people hope for in a neighbourhood. To visit Rawdon Court at Christmas has always meant experiencing community at its finest.
Social Media Growth Brings New Challenges
For 30 years, the display brought joy to local families. However, in recent years, crowd sizes have increased significantly. Brett attributes that growth largely to social media exposure. What began as a local tradition has become a regional attraction. As a result, motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic have both become problematic amongst other things.
Traffic, Behaviour, and Rubbish Issues Emerge
Residents reported cars blocking driveways including unauthorised parking on their private properties. In addition, visitors left rubbish throughout the court and surrounding roads. Both issues getting worse year on year with the rise in the number of visitors. One of the most disappointing aspects and observations were of people ignored directions from homeowners while on private property. Equally disappointing is to witness visitors disregarding signs asking people not to sit within the displays, only to see them put their desire for a photo opportunity in front of what is right and proper. What is very important to note though is that the display is attended in droves by kind and thoughtful people too.
Council’s Cost Stance Forces Difficult Decision
Council has indicated that the owners must now engage in traffic management, event management, and public liability insurance. According to residents who support the fundraising, those requirements would cost approximately $12,000 p/a. Bear in mind this is a charitable exercise run out of the goodness of peoples’ hearts. All proceeds are donated to the Royal Children’s Hospital. To lose $12,000 from donations defeats the purpose. The additional workload to organise and orchestrate the above is not insignificant either.
Xmas Spirit Brings Small Business Opportunities
The Christmas display created opportunities for local small businesses. Food trucks added atmosphere and a festival-style feel to the court. These included one of the shires latest sensations of the last few years – “Heavenly Sweets and Treats”. The court bursting with fairy floss, popcorn and smiles bigger than the children’s faces themselves. In addition, a Mr Whippy–style ice cream van, and vendors offering exotic treats from faraway lands. As a result, families stayed longer, locals mingled, and the event became a celebration of spirit, not just a viewing.
Small Number of Complaints Cited
According to supportive residents, the issues now involving council stem from as little as half a dozen complaints. Those complaints coming from just two to three people. Complaints surrounding noise, rubbish and illegal parking seem to be the drivers as to why council have become involved and instigated discussions with the organisers. Importantly, almost all of the courts residents fully supported the display. One resident is quoted as saying “This court is proud of what we’ve achieved,”
Significant Funds Raised for Royal Children’s Hospital
Despite the challenges, the display has made a major impact. Last year, residents raised $23,000 for the Royal Children’s Hospital. This year, organisers are on track to raise $30,000. Over the better part of this last decade, residents estimate the display has raised more than $130,000. As Victorians, we celebrate the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal every year. We celebrate the ever increasing amount of money raised. Here is one of the reasons why as a state, we achieve what we achieve.
Brett, the owner of the display said the decision came with deep sadness. “It’s with a heavy heart that we announce this is our final year,” he said. “We loved creating magic for the community.” He thanked visitors for their generosity and support. “Your smiles and donations meant the world to us,” he said.
One Final Season to Give Back
Residents are encouraging respectful visits during the final season. “Please come and enjoy the display one last time,” Brett said. “Help us finish on a high note for the kids at The Royal Children’s Hospital.” The display now closes as a proud Boronia tradition. Its legacy will live on through the families it helped.
Final Thought
How typical of human nature. Where something untouched by man is discovered by a few and proclaimed paradise. But when the best kept secret is discovered by the masses and all flock to it, it becomes a mirage.
Perhaps Don Henley and Glenn Frey best described this very phenomenon in their 1976 classic “Last Resort”.
“They call it paradise, I don’t know why, You call someplace paradise, kiss it goodbye”
