Flying cops delight sick kids

Special forces police officers, drug squad dogs and flashing police cars descended on the front lawn of the Royal Children's Hospital on September 8.

There was no emergency or illegal activity, though – the spectacular display was all part of the hospital visit by the Queensland Police Service (QPS)

Staff, patients and families cheered as Clancy the police Koala whizzed down from the roof of the Coles building on a giant flying fox and police officers abseiled down the Woolworth's building – much to the delight of onlookers on the inside of the windows.

Drug squad dogs also demonstrated their crime-busting talent, while the Queensland Police Pipes & Drums delivered a rousing performance for the crowd.

QPS Deputy Commissioner Ross Barnett, who oversaw the festivities, said the partnership between the Queensland Police Service and the Royal Children’s Hospital was one forged by a shared focus.

"We each deal with the challenges of life-changing situations and we each encounter the strength of the human spirit in our daily roles.

"We hope today's event provides a worthy distraction for sick and injured children who are facing their own challenges everyday," Deputy Commissioner Barnett said.

Pictured: Special Forces officers abseiled down the side Woolworths building, while Clancy the police Koala braved the flying-fox

Ekka fun for everyone

There were smiles and sticky faces all round as the carnival magic of the Ekka came to the Royal Children's Hospital on 9 August, 2011.

Although it is right across the road, the Ekka is beyond the grasp of many sick kids at the Royal Children's Hospital.

With that in mind, the RNA organisers and the Royal Children's Hospital Foundation brought the show to the RCH, transforming the front lawn into a miniature sideshow alley of fun, festivities and farm animals.

Old Ekka favourites such as the ball clowns, face painters, fairy floss and baby chicks brought big smiles to little faces. Official Ekka showbags were donated by the RNA and distributed to all the children not well enough to leave their hospital beds.

Pictured: Piper, Hannah, Ella and Lance enjoying the Ekka fun.