Stefan Masks Foundation Christmas Toy Run 2025
Stefan MASKS Foundation Christmas Toy Run 2025: Bringing Christmas Joy to the Queensland Children’s Hospital
In December 2025, Brisbane united for a cause close to the heart of the community as the Stefan MASKS Foundation Christmas Toy Run made its long‑awaited return. After a five‑year pause, this iconic Brisbane charity event once again brought Christmas joy, generosity and hope to children spending the festive season at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. Held on Tuesday 16 December 2025, the Toy Run saw a Queensland Motorcycle Police convoy escort Santa and a truckload of donated toys from Stefan Headquarters in South Brisbane, through South Bank, and on to the hospital. The convoy stopped traffic and turned heads, but more importantly, it delivered moments of happiness to children and families facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
A Beloved Brisbane Charity Event Returns
The return of the Stefan MASKS Foundation Toy Run marked a powerful moment for Brisbane. After years impacted by the pandemic, the event reignited a much‑loved Christmas tradition and reminded the community of the importance of coming together to support sick children during the festive season.
For many families and supporters, the Toy Run symbolised resilience, kindness and the enduring spirit of giving that defines the Brisbane community.
Making a Sick Kid Smile at Christmas
Stefan Ackerie, founder of the Stefan MASKS Foundation, reflected on the significance of the day. Bringing joy to sick children has always been the heart of the Foundation, and seeing the Toy Run return after years of waiting was deeply meaningful. MASKS, Make A Sick Kid Smile, is more than a name; it is a mission that came to life throughout every moment of the event.
Foundation Director Rose King highlighted the impact of the motorcycle police escort, which continues to be a highlight for young patients. "The sound of sirens, the excitement of the convoy and the generosity of everyone involved created unforgettable memories for children, families and hospital staff."
From South Brisbane to the Queensland Children’s Hospital
The day began with the early‑morning arrival of the Queensland Motorcycle Police at Stefan Headquarters, followed by volunteers carefully loading toys donated by the community. Santa then departed in the QLD Surf Club Van, escorted through South Brisbane and South Bank, creating a truly memorable Christmas moment for onlookers.
Upon arrival at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, gifts were delivered to patients and shared with families and healthcare workers, spreading smiles, laughter and Christmas cheer throughout the hospital.
Thank You to Our Community and Partners
The success of the Stefan MASKS Foundation Christmas Toy Run 2025 was made possible through the incredible support of the Queensland Motorcycle Police, Queensland Children’s Hospital Foundation, Surf Life Saving Queensland, hospital staff, volunteers and the wider Brisbane community.
This special day was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with compassion and purpose. The Toy Run showed that kindness can travel far, and that even the smallest moments of joy can make a lasting difference, especially at Christmas.
The Stefan MASKS Foundation continues to support initiatives that bring hope, happiness and smiles to sick children across Queensland.
