Scuba Santa dives in to Cairns Aquarium in time for Christmas

Most may think that Santa might be jumping from rooftops this time of year but in the Far North even someone so busy needs a cool down every now and then.

MOST may think that Santa might be jumping from rooftops this time of year but in the Far North he needs a refreshing swim.

Santa can be seen swimming with the sharks and his cheeky elf Jenny Cheetham at Cairns Aquarium until Christmas Eve.

Cairns Aquarium chief executive officer and founder Daniel Leipnik said it is the only photo opportunity in Cairns with Santa under water.

It might be a shock to see Santa swimming with stingrays and sharks. But it’s clear sharks have no appetite for Santa, so Mr Leipnik said there is nothing to fear.

Santa Claus and his naughty elf be making appearances at the Cairns Aquarium every day at 11:45am between now and Christmas. Poppy Thomas, 3, of Whitfield was delighted to see Santa and his naughty elf Jenny Cheetham in the Coral Sea Oceanarium on Friday. Picture: Brendan Radke

“Santa’s magical so he connects with all animals and nature.”

So far the locals are loving it, Alex Franklyn from Cairns said her daughter Poppy Thomas thought it was really cool.

“It’s brilliant because she loves fish. It's a much better take than the traditional Santa,” Ms Franklyn said.

Mr Leipnik said he was excited for more people to enjoy Santa as borders open.

“Cairns is looking sunnier every day. Borders opening, extra people coming into Cairns and fully booked hotels,” he said.

Scuba Santa will be there 11.45am to 12.15pm daily until Christmas Eve.

Originally published as Scuba Santa dives in to Cairns Aquarium in time for Christmas