The festive spirit is set to light up Jindabyne once again as the iconic Bent Street Christmas light display enters its 41st year, showcasing the hard work and dedication of residents, John and Doreen McLoughlin. Kicking off with a spectacular opening ceremony on Friday night, John, also known as Postman John, the mastermind behind the display, has rallied the community to embrace the holiday season, all while raising funds for important local causes.

Standing proudly as a beacon of holiday cheer, the Bent Street display is not just a visual spectacle, it is a testament to community resilience and collaboration.

“It’s my wife, Doreen, who has been the rock behind this operation,” Mr McLoughlin said.

“A couple of years ago, I struggled to get her near the lights, but now she’s out there before I am, making sure everything is perfect.”

His gratitude extends to other committed volunteers like Councillor Nick Elliott and tireless worker Sue McKid, whose dedication has been critical in assembling the grand light show this year.

The Friday evening event featured performances from the local girls’ choir Cool Change, a sausage sizzle courtesy of the Bush Pigs, and appearances by notable guests including local politicians. The excitement was palpable.

“This event isn’t just about the lights, it’s about bringing the community together and creating lasting memories,” Mr McLoughlin said.

The Member for Monaro and Mr McLoughlin’s close friend, Steve Whan, was invited to ceremonially switch on the lights at 8.15pm, an occasion he was proud to be a part of.

“What John does each year is provide pleasure for the community. It’s an honour for me to be involved in celebrating his incredible work,” Mr Whan said.

This year’s display features an impressive $7000 worth of new decorations, a significant investment that promises to enhance the visual experience.

Despite starting preparations late this year due to an overseas trip, Mr McLoughlin said everything fell into place better than anticipated during the set up.

“We’re excited to showcase some new elements that will surprise and delight everyone who visits,” Mr McLoughlin said.

In addition to the dazzling lights, community engagement is a key component of the event.

Children can write letters to Santa, with a guarantee that each letter will receive a response.

Mr McLoughlin will also have a weekly competition to encourage families to participate in the festive activities, culminating in a grand competition during the entire holiday season.

“When families come by, I’ll be there to explain how they can enter the competitions and keep the festive spirit alive,” Mr McLoughlin said.

The Bent Street Christmas light display also serves a charitable purpose.

Last year, part of the almost $13,000 proceeds raised from the Christmas light display were split and donated to The Fly Program, Thredbo Early Childhood Centre, and the Snowy Mountains Community Association.

The Fly Program, which supports male mental health through community retreats in the NSW Snowies was excited to hear they will once again be a recipient of this year’s donations.

“We’re grateful for John’s continued support,” Matt Tripet, founder of the Fly Program, said.

“The funds generated through his Christmas lights make a real difference in the lives of Aussie males seeking help.

“Last year we were able to use those funds toward supporting our scholarship program that directly supports participants into community retreats here in the NSW Snowies. These retreats are targeted at supporting Aussie males with their mental health, so we are appreciative to John and Doreen for selecting us as a recipient for these funds again this year.”

John and Doreen look forward to lighting up Bent Street and creating Christmas cheer as they flicked the switch on Friday evening. The lights will turn on every evening at 8pm and will remain on until 1 January.

Come along and experience the magic of Christmas come alive in Jindabyne.