Exercise Care Bear taking patients to new heights

Exercise Care Bear is taking patients to new heights!

5th Aviation’s Exercise Care Bear went to the skies on Thursday to take young patients and their families on a scenic tour of Townsville.

An MRH90, operated by the Australian Army, landed at James Cook University’s Joe Baker oval at 2.00pm where patients and families from Townsville University Hospital were able to see the aircraft first-hand.

After a safety briefing, the children and their families went for a 20-minute helicopter scenic tour of the North Queensland skies.

Brighter Lives CEO, Tanya Busoli said the charity is immensely grateful for the generous support that the Defence Force has provided, adding that is an amazing adventure for the hospital’s littlest patients.

“These families aren’t having the best of times with their loved ones being in hospital and allowing these patients to come and actually fly over Townsville and experience flying in a helicopter is something they will never forget,” Tanya said.

SGT Hamwood said it was a great opportunity for us to allow patients and their families a little joy of seeing Townsville from above. 

 “It’s an honour to be able to help these incredible kids with a unique experience. This is the fifth time we have helped give North Queensland kids this fun and unique experience outside of the hospital. We hope by helping to give a welcome distraction that this aids in their recovery.”