DUSTY Rychart remembers the sights and sounds of a hospital children's ward all too well.

So the Cairns Taipans’ tall man was happy to spread some Christmas cheer with his teammates at Cairns Base Hospital yesterday.

“When I was younger, my brother was in hospital a lot so it brings a lot of memories back,” he said.

“If we can bring a little bit of cheer to these kids and their families – it’s what it’s all about.

“It’s just good to bring a smile and give back to the community a little bit.”

Jacee O’Brien was brought into hospital on Monday with diabetes complications and his eyes lit up when the orange-clad sports stars paid a visit.

“It’s just exciting and unexpected,” the 11-year-old Cairns West primary school student said.

“I didn’t expect them to come here. I didn’t know what to say.”

Five-year-old Grace Nolan-Mundraby almost managed to forget the painful burn on her leg with the boys around her bedside.

“What have you asked Santa for this year?” Taipans development player James Mitchell asked her.

“A Barbie,” she replied.

Players also visited the Earlville Library yesterday to celebrate the end of the National Year of Reading.

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