While Christmas may look a little different from a hospital bed, patients staying at Mount Isa Hospital on the special day will be treated to a Christmas feast with all the trimmings.

It’s a little dash of seasonal cheer that might lift the spirits of people who, for whatever reason, are in hospital and away from their loved ones on Christmas Day.

Catering Supervisor Nenita Quinio said patients can expect a traditional Christmas lunch including roast pork and lamb with baked vegetables, followed by trifle and fruit cake on Christmas day.

“We try and give them all the Christmas fare, along with fresh stone fruits and sweet treats throughout the day,” Ms Quinio said.

“We probably feed about 40 patients for both lunch and dinner.”

Around six staff will work in the kitchen on Christmas Day. Ms Quinio said there is something special about working in the hospital at Christmas.

“We try to make it feel as festive as possible, for staff and patients. It still feels like Christmas even while we’re at work,” she said.

North West Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Sean Birgan said he appreciates the efforts of all hospital and health service staff, including the catering team, every day – but especially on Christmas Day.

“We’re really grateful to everyone who gives up time with family and friends to look after our patients on Christmas Day,” Mr Birgan said.

“Our catering staff at all of facilities put in a huge effort each day to ensure our patients and are well fed, and our many other workers do a fantastic job caring for our patients, but we appreciate their special sacrifice on Christmas Day. Thank you.”