Carnival brings Christmas cheer to Queensland Children’s HospitalCarnival brings Christmas cheer to Queensland Children’s Hospital

Grinch, the Christmas-stealer, had a change of heart in Brisbane when he snuck off Carnival Cruise Line’s Luminosa to deliver gifts to patients at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

The company has been a supporter of the Children’s Hospital Foundation since 2019 and has raised more than A$73,000 with the help of its passengers who have been taking part in the ‘Conga for Kids’ since Luminosa began sailing from Queensland in November 2022.

This 2024-25 Australian summer is the third season Luminosa has been homeported at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal and next March Carnival Encounter will be homeported there year round.

‘It is clear the Grinch’s heart has grown three sizes,’ VP Kara Glamore said. ‘We were delighted to have him join the Carnival team to spread Christmas cheer to patients and families.

Giving back

‘The smiles we saw are a beautiful example of the meaningful ways we want to give back to the Queensland community that has continued to welcome us with such open arms,' Glamore said.

Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO Lyndsey Rice said more than 9,000 children receive care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital every December.

Remote areas

Rice said one in three travel from regional or remote areas to access the vital treatment they need.

Related:Carnival Luminosa arrives in Brisbane for third consecutive season

‘For these children and their families Christmas often feels far from home,’ she said. 'That is why we are so grateful to partners like Carnival for helping bring the magic of the festive season to life within our hospital walls.’