It’s looking a lot like Christmas in Baradine. 

The town has switched on to the joy and magic of Christmas with its popular festive lights’ competition and there is a new Christmas-themed hay bale on display at Bugaldie. 

Baradine residents and businesses have joined in the merry spirit of the season by switching on their festive decorations and entering into the annual Christmas Lights competition.  

A record 65 houses have been judged in three categories, best lights, best spirit of Christmas and best religious theme, with a separate business decoration category. 

Santa and an elf greeted visitors at Grace Harris’s amazing display of Christmas lights.

Light shows ranged from giant Santas, illuminated reindeer and classic Australian animals and sparkling trees, to homes decked out in rainbow coloured flashing lights and an illuminated festive landscape masterpiece on the back of a semi-trailer. 

Residents Peter Wilkie and Robyn Myall shared first prize in the spirit of Christmas category with their amazing and extensive dazzling installations.  

Grace Harris took out first for best lights, which included Santa and a merry elf welcoming viewers to explore her wonderland of brightly lit Christmas cheer. Kylie Sutherland won the religious theme with a delightful illuminated native scene and the Baradine

The Post Office won best business lights. 

The People’s Choice category has yet to be finalised. 

An innovative festive landscape on the back of a semi-trailer. 

Competition sponsors, the Baradine & District Progress Association says that the competition is all about sharing the magic of the season around the community. 

“This annual event is always a huge success with residents displaying their illuminating skills with some impressive decorated houses,” said association president, Ted Hayman.  

“There is nothing merrier than getting involved; the event is a highlight on the local calendar.”    

Peter Wilkie had a dazzling installation.

This year the organisation brought the spirit of Christmas into the town centre by adding festive sparkles to Wellington Street and the iconic memorial hall. 

“A great team of volunteers have donated their time to hang decorations in the trees up the centre of Wellington Street and festoon the front of our iconic memorial hall with lights,” added Mr Hayman. “It’s all about getting into the holiday spirit and spreading Christmas cheer.” 

  Hay bale art, adding to the festivities!