IT WAS truly the most wonderful time of the year for Vicki Mudge and Ron Cruickshank, whose love story reached a beautiful milestone at the Hervey Bay Boat Club Christmas Lights Wonderland in December.

What was meant to be a night of festive fun and dazzling light displays turned into a moment neither of them will ever forget. 

As the couple wandered through the vibrant lights at the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens, Ron seized the perfect opportunity to propose to Vicki, turning the holiday magic into a life-changing moment.

While posing for a photo at the Giant Bauble photo booth, Ron got down on one knee and asked Vicki to be his wife. 

The proposal, set against a backdrop of twinkling Christmas lights and cheerful holiday sounds, marked the beginning of the next chapter in a love story that has spanned over five decades.

"It felt surreal," said Vicki, still overwhelmed by the surprise. 

"I was over the moon. There were many tears, and then I wanted to tell the world."

The couple first met more than 50 years ago but only reconnected about 12 months ago. 

In that short time, their love has blossomed, and Vicki said the festive atmosphere of the Christmas Lights Wonderland made the engagement all the more special.

“It was just such a nice, happy atmosphere—kids laughing, the beautiful light displays, and the bright baubles,” Vicki added.

“It was a happy place to be... and then, a surprise proposal!”

The Christmas Lights Wonderland event itself had bounced back after a week of heavy rain, welcoming thousands of visitors with its stunning decorations, new street piano, and a pop-up community choir. 

Special thanks were given to Keith Stevenson, who contributed a refurbished piano to the event and serenaded guests on multiple nights.