Christmas cheer for sick kids

Published 5:00pm 7 December 2023

Words by Kylie Knight

Santa made a surprise visit to children in Redcliffe Hospital’s Paediatric Unit this week, handing out hundreds of gifts donated by Lewis Land Group.

The big man in red hand-delivered gifts for children in the ward and left others to be given to children and babies in the Paediatric Emergency Department, Maternity Unit, Special Care Nursery, Child Protection Unit and Social Work during the Christmas period.

Nurse Unit Manager Emma O’Hara says she is overwhelmed by the continued generosity of Lewis Land Group, owners of The Belvedere and The Komo.

“We are so appreciative of this donation. It is great to see smiles on the children’s faces especially those in hospital at this time of year,” Emma says.

Lewis Land Group has donated more than $30,000 in toys to Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital during the past four years and more than $180,000 in total as the major Impact Partner for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day.

Lewis Land Group Queensland Regional Manager Leisure Chris Allison says: “Our annual Christmas toy donation is a heartfelt tradition.

“Being able to provide gifts to babies and children in care is one of the most rewarding things we could do and we’re in a fortunate position to be able to do this for our communities.”

Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital is a partnership between the RBWH Foundation and Redcliffe Hospital.

All funds raised support innovative patient care projects, life-changing health research and other hospital initiatives that fall outside the scope of government funding.

RBWH Foundation CEO Simone Garske says: “Christmas is a special time for giving and we thank Lewis Land Group for their generosity not only now but all year round.

“These toys will spread joy and make a huge difference to the children who find themselves in Hospital at Christmas time.

“They will brighten the day of our youngest patients and their loved ones at the time of year that is all about generosity of spirit and celebrating connection.”