GYMPIE grandparents David and Suzanne Jamieson began decorating their Barton Rd home and yard with Christmas lights 12 years ago, and have since spent thousands of dollars perfecting their expression of Christmas joy.

Despite more than a decade of creative collaboration and investment, they were genuinely shocked and thrilled this week when they were announced winners of the Best Home in the Sunshine Mitre 10 Christmas Lights Competition 2011.

A delighted David said yesterday he usually started his annual project on September 1, so everything was in place and ready to dazzle the neighbourhood by December 1.

Next year, however, the work will start in February because there are big plans to build a miniature village in the garage.

David and Suzanne are equally passionate about their Christmas lights, and with 85% of the display now LED lighting the power bill isn't too scary. Despite working for Energex, David doesn't get any discounts.

"We just love Christmas," he said.

"It's all about having a good time and being happy and putting a bit of joy back into people's lives."

With son Aaron living next door and putting up his own Christmas lights, David is happy to see the tradition being carried on.

Best New Entrant in this year's competition was Lucian Appuhamy, of 51 Hill Top Ave, and the People's Choice award went to the Miller family, of 8 Gene Ct.

The Jamiesons won a $500 Sunshine Mitre 10 voucher, Lucian a $300 voucher and the Millers a $200 voucher.