Margaret and Allan Spencer built their dream house, 'Gracelands', six years ago. In December each year thousands of people visit the house to see the spectacular Christmas display of lights and decorations. Putting up the decorations is a family affair, which begins in October when the Spencers start checking the 50,000 light globes in the display to make sure they all work. It takes about 9 days to put up the decorations, but only 1 day to take them down. The snow scene in the garage includes trains and animated decorations, and takes 2 days to install.

The family feels that since 'Gracelands' was built, the Christmas display is getting a little out of hand. Visitors expect a bigger and better show every year, and so Margaret and Allan take annual trips to the United States of America to stock up on the latest in Christmas decorations. They estimate that over the years they must have spent $50,000 or more on decorations and lights.

Further information

'Gracelands'
94 Violet Town Road
Belmont North NSW

Belmont North is approximately 90 mins from Sydney near Newcastle. Lights are on from 7.30-10.30pm, 7 nights a week (weather permitting) until December 30, 2001. Admission is free, with any donations going to The Children's Cancer Section of John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle and Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Animated decorations and a large range of festive items can be found at specialty stores such as:

Christmas Cave Sydney
201-211 Botany Street
Waterloo 2017
Phone: (02) 9319 1995
Website: www.christmascave.com.au

Christmas Cave Melbourne
98-108 Wellington Street
Collingwood 3066
Phone: (03) 9417 5224
Website: www.christmascave.com.au

Or see under 'Christmas Trees and/or Decorations' in your local Yellow Pages.

Copyright CTC Productions 2001