Innisfail Lights Their Community

Felica Burridge, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and her wonderful husband Jason, are once again playing significant roles in 'lighting up' their neighbourhood in Innisfail, Australia. They have decorated their home with a magnificent Christmas light display which took a team of people a full month to put in place. Over a number of years, this display has become one of the highlights of the Christmas Season in northeastern Australia.

Many Church members in the Cairns District (diocese) are lending their support by travelling to Innisfail throughout the month to help in any way they can.

For the opening night, there was tremendous support from hundreds of people coming to see the Burridges' home. There were members of the Church as well as other guests from all of the surrounding areas. Church volunteers gave out star wands, candy canes & 'Light the World' pass- along cards. President Innis of the Innisfail Branch (congregation) said, "Members were greeting the community and there was a great spirit of Christ present." Besides the people walking through the display on opening night, there were many cars driving by to see the wonderful Christmas lighting display.

Rosie Eteru, an Innisfail Branch member said, "It’s always a fun way to invite the spirit of love and joy by going to Felica and Jason’s home. Not only do you see the Christmas lights but you feel the love that goes into putting them up. It’s one of the best house displays I have seen where you can interact with all those who attend their house. It's just a fun-filled night for all to come and enjoy!"

Church member Lisa Lindsey had the privilege of painting the nativity pieces in front of the Burridge home. About her participation, she expressed, "It was an awesome experience to bring them to life."

On opening night, an Innisfail Advocate journalist was present and took a few shots for the next local newspaper edition. 

Last year, the Burridges' won the top prize from the Bribane power company for their efforts and the yard display saw more than 4,000 people pass through.

This year, the Burridges' were approached by the 'Make-A-Wish' Foundation, to have their beautiful home Christmas lighting display serve as the magical backdrop for the Foundation to grant a wish for an ill child. The Burridges, encouraged by the Foundation, started a Gold Coin Donation and GoFundMe page to raise money for the charity. The lucky child will be announced later in the month.

Much good is being done in Innisfail by the Burridges and by Church volunteers as a way to bless everyone involved and a way to 'Light their Community.'