By Laura Michell
Romeo Tonna has been carefully crafting – and displaying – his vision of Bethlehem in his Craigieburn garage for eight years.
At close to six metres wide and featuring more than 7500 pieces, running water and fairy lights, the nativity scene has become a must-visit for Craigieburn families during the festive season.
The hand-built display features buildings including a stable complete with baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, shepherds and their flocks, trees and a host of animals and people moving around the town.
Every piece has been made from plaster by Mr Tonna and then painted and carefully positioned in the display.
Mr Tonna said he began the display in 2010 as a way to mark Christmas.
“Christmas is a very special time for me,” he said. “I like that lots of people come. People really seem to enjoy it. My kids think I am crazy, but I love it.”
Mr Tonna said the display had become a hobby and a great way to pass time over the years.
The display will be open every day until January 1 from 8pm ’til late, at 11 Parramatta Walk, Craigieburn.
