Christmas trains conductor hangs up his whistle

CRAIG WINTER

WHAT began as a hobby 22 years ago quickly turned into an obsession.

Malcolm & Alexandra Weber are well known for their extensive Christmas lights displays which have amazed and entertained viewers for years.

Their display includes a massive set of 3 train tracks that Malcolm built around and inside the home, including buildings and surroundings.

For the past 22 years, the Weber’s trains and lights have attracted thousands of visitors, and sadly this year will be their last as they hang up their whistles for the last time.

Daughter Erin says that it all began with a small timber track on the family’s pool table.

“It then became 3 train layouts within a few years.”

“There is an N scale, HO scale & a G scale garden track. My Dad built the entire garden railway, including all the buildings, light poles etc.” she said.

“He also built the two tracks inside on his own. My Mum, myself and siblings have been his greatest supporters.

“We were only teens when our Dad started the light displays.”

The family sets a book up every year for the community to write their comments in about the display, and Erin posts on the Maryborough Community Facebook page so people can visit over the Christmas period.

“They flock in their thousands, inside and outside of our home.”

The decision to make this their last year has been a difficult one.

“We want to make this one special for them.” Erin said.

And judging from past attendances, this year will be the biggest and best ever for the Webers.

You can see their last train display at 53 Thurecht Street, Maryborough.

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