For more than three decades, Melton local Sandra Brogan has transformed her home into a festive wonderland, delighting generations of families with her annual Christmas display.
The tradition began 31 years ago when Sandra’s father first decorated the family home with a simple set of blowup reindeer and a Santa figure.
When he later moved to Melton, he brought the display with him, quickly becoming a favourite stop for neighbourhood kids eager to soak up the Christmas spirit.
Today, Sandra proudly carries the tradition – one which has grown into a family effort and a much-loved community event.
“We’ve been doing it for about 30-odd years now,” she said.
“A lot of people who came as kids now come back with children of their own.”
Each Christmas Eve, the Brogan home comes alive with costumed characters, with this year set to receive visits from Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the Grinch, Santa and Mrs Claus, and even Glinda the Good Witch from Wicked and the Wizard of Oz, played this year by actress and school teacher Alysha Kent.
From 7.30pm on this year’s silent night, families are invited to visit for photos, meet the characters and feast on candy canes.
Sandra said it’s the joy on the children’s faces that keeps the tradition alive.
“I think it’s the kids’ faces. When they hop out of the car and turn the corner, that look of excitement is everything,” she said.
Adding to the magic, Sandra’s daughter performs Christmas carols each year, creating a festive atmosphere that locals say feels like the true spirit of the season.
“It’s just something we love doing,” Sandra said.
“It brings everyone together.”
