Christmas Lights in Surbubia

A fortnight before Christmas, Sydney's northern suburb of Ryde already showed the spirit of the festive and holiday season.Two residential streets, Stephen and Cutler, had houses glowing in positive merriment community spirit. The tinkles, the bulbs, the glitter and the ideas behind the decorations did not tell the full extent of dedication, thoughtfulness and work that went into preparing such outdoor lights. There were even house owners with their families and mates sitting in their gardens, whilst outsiders and visitors looked in awe at the displays.

There were no rules, except to delight and fascinate. Some kept it streamlined, others maintained simple effects and yet there were always pockets of concentrated happiness and glow. The quarter moon hung above it all like a sentry on duty - and not fazed by all this possibly competing brightness below.

There were different themes to pick out, and I enjoyed the Santa sliding down a long rope crossing over the abyss of the lawn below. All you had to do was give him a clap and he would perform. Icons and memorabilia of Christmas were carefully arranged, not just on roof top lines, around shrubs and bay windows, but also on closed garage doors, fencing and more. Perhaps even the residents would not be able to recognise certain house frontages on first sight - they were truly transformed.

The evening air was punctuated by laughter, small talk and the hush of impressed faces. Families got out, teenagers collected donations and couples held hands. The collective sense of community was heightened by participation, sharing and taking an interest. The late sunset of summer nights meant people could stay up late and feel the vibrant vibes of an otherwise quiet neighbourhood.