The Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) escorted Santa for the 83rd consecutive year to The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) on Christmas morning.

And he didn’t disappoint.  Around 150 patients were thrilled to hear Santa’s “Ho Ho Ho” as he delivered presents.  For some, it was their first ever visit from the man in the red suit.

The tradition began at the hospital in Pelham Street, Carlton in 1928 when firemen took Santa to visit another fireman’s child in hospital.  This was the beginning of the ‘Once A Year Club’ with doctors and fire-fighters as members.

Over the years the visit has become a family affair with the fire-fighters joined by their families (dressed as clowns) and MFB musicians.

Santa’s visit this year was extra special as it was his first to the new RCH.  He arrived with his MFB entourage in a convoy of new and antique fire trucks decorated with tinsel, horns blaring, lights flashing and sirens sounding.

The crew danced to Christmas carols beside the huge Christmas tree in Main Street as patients and staff watched from the overhead link passages.

Santa was then given special instructions to ensure he successfully navigated his way around the new hospital, spreading Christmas cheer to every patient.

The morning concluded with the annual Christmas sing-a-long competition between the MFB and RCH staff.  While the jury’s still out as to who won, it was clear the Christmas spirit was alive and well at the RCH this year.

Read the Herald Sun’s coverage of Christmas Day at the RCH here.

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