First published in the Parramatta Sun.

SPIRITS were high at Ronald McDonald House Westmead on Tuesday when patients were treated to a special visit.

Australian music star Shannon Noll and GIANTS ruckman Tom Downie were on hand at Westmead to highlight the amazing work Ronald McDonald House does for the community.

One of 15 Ronald McDonald Houses in Australia, the facility at Westmead delivers respite and lodgings for rural NSW families while undergoing medical treatment.

Noll, famous for his country roots, said the foundation provides a crucial service in assisting families who must travel long distances to access treatment.

“Accommodation is a tremendously important thing for country families when they come to the city for treatment,” the long-time Ronald McDonald House ambassador said.

“You can’t get the same level of treatment in country areas and sometimes families have to come a long way to get the help they need. To allow families to be close to their loved ones and not have to travel back and forth is very important.”

Ronald McDonald House Westmead will be the GIANTS’ official charity partner for the club’s round 22 clash with Fremantle at Spotless Stadium on Saturday. Shannon Noll will perform at half-time.

Downie, who grew up in the regional Victorian town of Benalla, said it was important for him and his GIANTS team-mates to engage with the community.

“It’s nice to be able to come out and connect with people,” he said. “These sorts of visits are really good to brighten the days of some underprivileged families, it puts things into perspective for us.”

Belinda Woolford from Ronald McDonald House Westmead said the visit was a welcome one for families who are going through a tough period.

“Having players from the GIANTS and Shannon Noll come to visit our families today if amazing –  the opportunity to meet some of their idols and having them take the time to hear their stories certainly brings a smile to their faces.

“Having Tom and Shannon who are also from rural areas made it very easy for them to relate to the kids and the families.”

Representatives from development company Dyldam were also in attendance on Tuesday. Dyldam has supported Ronald McDonald House for more than a decade.

Development director Remon Fayad said the company donated five apartments to the foundation in 2005.

“We are all about supporting Western Sydney and the house does an amazing job. We are proud to be associated with them,” he said.”