By Laura Michell
Thomastown couple Antonio and Matilde Filippini have transformed their house into a Christmas wonderland to help raise money to fight heart disease.
The Filippini’s spent two months creating their festive display before switching on the lights on November 28.
The couple has been illuminating their house each Christmas for 27 years, but in 2004 they decided to make their annual display a fundraiser for the Heart Foundation.
They chose the Heart Foundation because Mr Filippini suffered a heart attack in 2002.
“After recovering from my heart attack, I wanted more people to be aware of heart disease and the impact it has on your health and your family,” he said.
“We enjoy bringing a bit of festive cheer to our street, but more importantly, I want to encourage people to know the warning signs of a heart attack and get help quickly by calling triple-0. Any delay in seeking treatment can cause damage to your heart.”
The Filippini’s display features more than 150,000 lights and decorations covering the house and front yard.
This year, they’ve added snow machines to add to the winter wonderland theme.
They will also be running a raffle, which will be drawn on December 21.
Heart Foundation Victorian chief executive Kellie-Ann Jolly said the Filippinis have raised more than $170,000 for the Heart Foundation.
“With the generous support of families like the Filippinis and their local community, together we’re putting a spotlight on heart disease to help raise funds for lifesaving cardiac research and to provide support for those living with heart conditions,” she said.
The display is at 118 The Boulevard, Thomastown and is on until December 28.
Entry is via a gold coin donation.
