Santa traded his sleigh for a helicopter on a surprise visit to a Sydney children's hospice, bringing much-needed festive cheer ahead of Christmas.
Touching down at Manly's Bear Cottage in the Toll Ambulance Rescue Helicopter on Monday morning, Santa handed out presents with the help of Premier Chris Minns.
Bear Cottage is Sydney's only children's hospice, offering end-of-life care and respite for around 250 young people and their families every year.
"Bear Cottage is a special place for the children and their families who call it home," Mr Minns said, adding that it was a privilege to be with the group at this time of year.
Sydney Children's Hospitals Network chief executive Cathryn Cox said it could be extremely challenging for those having to spend Christmas away from home.
"Events like this go a long way to ensuring those special memories can be made no matter where our families are," she said.
The facility offers families an opportunity to take a break from their child's treatment and focus on creating lasting memories.
NSW Ambulance chief executive said the visit - now in its seventh year - was a highlight for crews on the Toll rescue helicopter, which ferried Santa to the northern beaches for the event.
