Excited gasps from patients and their families were heard at the Women's and Children's Hospital (WCH) this morning when Santa abseiled a building to join police at a magical Christmas party.
Otherwise known as Superintendent David Scutchings, Santa replaced a chimney with ropes to make a theatrical entrance before gifting child patients with early presents.
South Australia Police joined forces with hospital staff and volunteers to host the Blue Light Police Link Christmas party today, Thursday 12 December, which brings joy to many sick children each year.
Mischievous clown doctors, Disney characters, the Band of the South Australia Police, Dog Operations Unit, police motorcycle and abseiling elves also entertained the crowd.
Other than bringing smiles to many faces, a highlight of the day for several police officers was snapping a photo with an adult-sized Bluey and impressive Bumblebee Transformer.
Branch Chair - Police Link Program and Senior Sergeant Mark Orford said the Christmas party was a great opportunity for police officers to help Police Link brighten the day for patients and their families, along with WCH staff.
"I'd like to thank everyone involved for continued support of the program and my fellow colleagues, including Assistant Commissioner Simon Watkins and Chief Inspector Melissa Gilchrist, for being here today," he said.
"This program is all about having fun with the kids, and without our volunteers the program wouldn't exist, so I'm very thankful to everyone involved.
"It's a rewarding day for our officers and we hope the program will continue to grow."
Police Link sees police officers visit the WCH and Flinders Medical Centre several times throughout the year to positively engage with children who are unwell or undergoing medical treatment for serious health issues. Each visit involves officers delivering crime prevention messages while building kids' trust and confidence in SAPOL.
The police band created an upbeat atmosphere during the event with familiar carols and even added the classic Star Wars soundtrack to its setlist.
Police officers then joined Santa on a ward tour to ensure patients unable to attend the party still received presents, which were provided by fundraising efforts of the Police Credit Union.
"The visits are always well-received and bring a smile to children, providing an uplifting distraction from their hospital admission," SSgt Orford added.
Visit Police Link | Blue Light SA for more information on Police Link events and visits to the WCH and Flinders Medical Centre.
More magic here: https://youtube.com/shorts/cf0DZkD3hJM?feature=share
Chief Inspector Melissa Gilchrist, and Assistant Commissioner Simon Watkins getting into the Christmas spirit.
Detective Brevet Sergeant Drew Bynoe catching up with Bluey. Georgie and Sergeant Wood enjoying the police party.
Probationary Constable Smith and Senior Constable Semmens pose with Bumblebee.
Santa Scutchings hearing Oliver's Christmas wishes.
Police dog Neave hoping Santa has a Christmas carrot.
