An Oran Park resident has given his usual Christmas setup a tropical makeover this year, marking the arrival of mango season with a playful twist, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Alex Mangos, well known in his neighbourhood for his elaborate festive displays, describes himself as “a bit of a fanatic.” After years of decorating his home with lights, he decided this season called for something different. He introduced vibrant mango-inspired décor, adding dozens of fruity decorations to his usual setup before the traditional lighting period begins.
“I love trying new things, making new things and creating displays for the community … mangoes are my favourite fruit, and have been since I can remember. People often mix up my surname with the fruit, too,” Mr Mangos said.
His passion for decorating began in his teens. “I’ve decorated ever since I was a teen when mum let me decorate the house, and then obviously when I got this place I started small and worked my way up. You start with a string of lights here and there, and before you know it you’ve eventually created something beautiful.”
But behind the bright colours and festive spirit lies a personal motivation.
“My six-year-old son got diagnosed with leukemia when he was three years old, and it was a humungous shock to our system,” he said. The family spent long stretches at Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick, which he described as becoming “a second home.”
“I’m happy to say he’s been cancer-free after three years … I wanted to give back whatever way I could, and I decided I could do that through fundraising.”
This year’s Mango Christmas Lights will run nightly from November 12–19 on Bourne Ridge, with donations supporting Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick.
Source: The Daily Telegraph
