A two-metre-high Christmas tree towering over Currumbin has been erected more than six-weeks out from Christmas, and psychologists say its owner is on to something.
Currumbin mum Fiona Sillar put up her sunflower Christmas tree to "share the love" after a rough two years for COVID-fatigued Gold Coasters.
"I just thought we needed something happy and something bright this year," she said.
Dr James Kirby, senior lecturer in clinical psychology at the University of Queensland said Christmas cheer is more than just tinsel and baubles; it was good for wellbeing.
"It's just a way of showing that we are part of a community, we have gone through something big; let's celebrate the positive things that are on our horizon," he said.
Local appetite strong as borders soften
With the Queensland border set to open to interstate travellers the week before Christmas, Ms Sillar said she hoped locals could look forward to seeing friends and family.
"It's like groundhog day every day and you just get in such a rut," she said.
It was not just Ms Sillar preparing for early celebrations.
Christmas-ready Gold Coasters snapped up tickets to the Mayor's Christmas Carols event, which sold out in two hours, and council-funded Santas have already started popping up around the coast.
Dr Kirby said early Christmas spirit can bring people together, especially at a time when people are physically distanced.
Decorations 'important' for connection
Dr Kirby said being part of a community and looking forward to something are some of the benefits of stringing up the lights early.
"There is a sense of 'I have the chance now to take actions that can have a real positive effect by bringing smiles'," he said.
Ms Sillar said her tree has attracted photos from passers-by, and even attention from the most unlikely of season revellers.
"You see [teenage boys] looking cool with their friends and then one goes 'oh my god, that is the raddest thing I've ever seen. That is so cool!' which is funny to see these 17-year-old boys go gaga over a tree," she said.
For those looking for a little encouragement to put the tree up early, Dr Kirby said to go for it.
