By Mikayla van Loon
Montrose has turned the lights on for Corey in another spectacular year of a Christmas display like no other.
Debbie Brasher has this year created a winter wonderland at her home, fitted with snow and snowmen, a talking tree and a gift giving wall to be seen all throughout December.
What started four years ago in memory of her son Corey who died from an asthma attack on 15 January 2018, has become the most magical community Christmas event in the local area.
Although a slow start to the opening on 1 December because of the wild weather, Ms Brasher said Santa nights like the one on Saturday 4 December are always busy.
“Santa night is always a busy night when they get all the photos in there, it’s all fun,” she said.
“The first night was not too bad but it’s been a bit cold. Of course we had the cleansing storm on the first night and then the second night was a bit cold and miserable but it’ll pick up, it’s only the first week. So it’s pretty good but it’s been pretty fun.”
Ms Brasher said although it’s a little overwhelming, she gets to enjoy the community spirit and all the children coming out to see Santa and the display every night, which is her favourite part.
“I got called Mrs Claus about 100 times tonight. And then I’ve got my regulars that are coming back, which is great.
“So it’s all a little overwhelming but you can hear it all buzzing inside.”
No one goes without anything either, with a gift exchange – children can take a gift but then have to come back and replace it with another – as well as small presents from Santa.
Every intricate detail, from the poetry notes to the window displays, Ms Brasher’s care in creating a truly awe inspiring and extraordinary Christmas experience for young and old alike is remarkable.
The gratitude and joy Lights on for Corey brought people is also just as profound and heartwarming.
But while the gift of lights and Christmas spirit is at the heart of what Ms Brasher does, raising money to be used in the community and donated to charity is how she keeps on giving throughout the year.
Although a free event, donation tins are available and this year little snowmen are for sale, to help raise funds.
“A snowman will slowly melt away but in our hearts you will always stay,” the tag reads.
Hoping to have the biggest year of donations yet, Ms Brasher would like to raise $7500. So far she has raised around $1500.
“We have no idea where it’s going to go and we’re open for everyone to give me ideas,” she said.
Ms Brasher is open for suggestions on how to spend the money raised, with people able to send an email to oooops1@bigpond.com
Santa comes to say hello every Saturday night before Christmas Day at 8.30pm. Lights on for Corey is open Sunday to Thursday 8.30pm to 10.30pm and on from 8.30pm to late on Fridays and Saturdays.
Find the house and take a peek at the incredible display at 858 Mt Dandenong Road, Montrose.
