Published on Wednesday, 16 November 2022 at 2:57:36 PM
Albany’s CBD will come alight for the festive season this weekend with the return of the popular City of Albany Christmas Lights Trail.
Last year’s inaugural trail of Christmas light sculptures was adored by locals and visitors, with many visiting the city centre to see the illuminations and take selfies, but it also suffered considerable vandalism.
This year’s lights trail will be switched on from Saturday, November 19 and will feature new Australian-themed installations of a kangaroo, koala and a quokka.
Mayor of Albany Dennis Wellington said Council was thrilled to support the return of the Christmas Lights Trail after its success in 2021, but is also asking the community to respect and enjoy the experience.
“We had overwhelming feedback from the community that they would like to see the lights trail back again, so we’ve done that and we think it’s just a great exercise for the community,” the Mayor said.
“What wasn’t so great was how much damage was done to last year’s installations, and if that happens again then we will have to rethink if we do it again.”
The ongoing and deliberate acts of vandalism to last year’s sculptures resulted in a repair bill of more than $40,000.
“The level of deliberate damage was very disappointing and embarrassing for Albany as the feedback from the supplier was that it was the most vandalism they’d seen to their sculptures,” the Mayor said.
“We have taken additional security steps to try and prevent a repeat of this, but we are also asking everyone to be aware and report anyone doing the wrong thing.”
The Christmas Lights Trail is a precursor to the 2022 Christmas Festival and Pageant happening on Saturday, December 3 from 3pm.
“The pageant is a great family event and one of our most popular community events, so come along and enjoy the festivities at this special time of the year,” Mayor Wellington said.
More information about the City of Albany Summer Event series can be found at www.cityofalbanyevents.com.
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