Borough’s famous Christmas tree lights up

THE Borough of Queenscliffe has carried on the wonderful Christmas lights tradition in Point Lonsdale this year with a dazzling lighting ceremony.

The event was broadcast to the world with hundreds of people tuning in to see mayor Ross Ebbels and special guests such as local singer Cass Waugh and even Santa Claus turn the lights on.

During his speech, Mr Ebbels acknowledged “lighting up this iconic 40-metre high, 19-metre wide Norfolk pine” was an important Point Lonsdale tradition, but one that meant much more than a just a pretty light display.

“In a year where traditions have fallen by the wayside, where the pandemic has forced many cancellations to events we hold dear, we had a responsibility to keep this ritual alive, even if it meant doing things a little differently. Why so? Because Christmas is a time of togetherness, a time of community and a time of hope,” he said.

“There is something inherently special about seeing the lights on this Christmas tree as it illuminates Point Lonsdale throughout every December and January. It really does feel like home.”

Mr Ebbels said broadcasting the event allowed people who had left the borough the opportunity to tune in and be part of the community.

“Council’s motto is a Latin phrase translating to ‘Safest anchorage for seafarers’. Any man or woman knows that the waters we live near can be some of the most treacherous in the world, so during these summer nights where the bright lights and tree can be seen for up to 30 nautical miles out to sea, the Borough provides a beacon of hope that safe shores are never too far away.”

The tree is estimated to be more than 150 years old and was recognised in 2009 by the Victorian Heritage Council to be a statement of significance, one that is historic, aesthetic and helps define the character of the Borough.

Mr Ebbels said the acknowledgement protected the tree in its place for “as long as the tree lives, which promotes togetherness”.

The broadcast featured singing from local singer Cass Waugh and comments on the video, which can still be streamed on the Borough Facebook page were very positive.

One viewer said it was “Very well done and maybe there should be more of these types of presentations”; another, “Well done to everyone involved, particularly the team from BoQ for organising this,”; and another, Happy Christmas Lonnie, missing you, from Perth.”

To see the lighting of the Christmas tree, head to facebook.com/queenscliffe/videos.