Tree-mendous lighting installation to be switched as part of Wagga Wagga’s Christmas celebrations

Ever wanted to see what 13,800 twinkling fairy lights looks like?

Then be sure to head down to the Victory Memorial Garden on Thursday 30 November from 8pm for the official switching on of a new light installation just in time for Christmas.

Flicking the switch will also officially usher in the festive season across the city, which includes Christmas-themed flags, footpath decals and projections on the Civic Centre, along with other events such as carols, a lit-up Christmas village and New Year’s Eve fireworks.

“While we are switching on these new lights as part of our community’s Christmas celebrations, they will be used year-round to add something special to the cityscape along with contributing to the overall sense of safety for park users,” Wagga Wagga City Council’s Director Community Janice Summerhayes said.

“This project is a gift that will keep on giving to the community long after the festive season.

“The lights feature 13,800 LED golden coloured globes, winding 610 metres around the tree and stretching 20 metres high.”

The lights, flags and decals replace the city’s older decorations, which were decommissioned due to wear and tear. The lights will also create a sense of nostalgia for

some Wagga Wagga residents who may recall lights adorning the tallest cypress pine in the Victory Memorial Gardens in the past.

“The tree lights add a new look and feel to the Civic Precinct, providing a central place for the community to come together during the festive season and at other events throughout the year,” Ms Summerhayes said.

“Reinstating the much-loved lights in the pine tree in the Victory Memorial Gardens is the first stage of this lighting project, with the opportunity to light more trees in the area depending on budget available in the future.”

The lights have been fitted with bird deterrent devices and are heavy duty to withstand weather conditions. The cost of the project was $20,000.

MERRY AND BRIGHT

What: Be part of the start of the festive season in Wagga Wagga by joining in the official switching on of the new tree lights.

When: Thursday 30 November, from 8pm

Where: Victory Memorial Gardens

Who: Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM, Santa Claus