Meet the Elvis impersonator spreading joy at Townsville University Hospital

Townsville University Hospital turned into a rock ‘n’ roll haven recently as staff and patients were treated to a surprise visit from none other than the King himself — or at least, the next best thing, nurse Jeffrey ‘JJ’ Jarrott.

Townsville University Hospital enrolled nurse Jeffrey Jarrott has been paying tribute to Elvis Presley. Photo: Ian Hitchcock.

Staff and patients alike at Townsville University Hospital got a chance to say ‘hail to the king’ on Friday as they were serenaded with hits from the Elvis Presley catalogue.

Enrolled nurse Jeffrey ‘JJ’ Jarrott marked the occasion of 47 years having passed since the rock legend’s untimely death by dressing up in Elvis’ characteristic jumpsuit and singing to one and all.

The performances have been a regular part of Mr Jarrott’s repertoire since 2005 and he’s committed to keeping the good times rolling.

Kaitlin Male and Megha Gopalakrishnan Nair, and assistant in nursing Nina Lui and 'The King'.

“It’s a privilege to do what we do here and to give someone who’s not feeling so well, or not having a good day, a bit of a lift and see them smile means the world,” he said.

“It’s also about kindness and when you are kind, you get it back in spades.

“I’ll keep doing it as long as it’s making patients happy.”

Friday’s crowd-pleasers included Burning Love, Don’t be Cruel, and Teddy Bear.

Townsville Hospital and Health Service chief executive Kieran Keyes said JJ was a guaranteed pick me up for everyone in the hospital.

“Not only is JJ beloved by our patients, the staff get a huge kick out of his routines as well,” he said.

Originally published as Meet the Elvis impersonator spreading joy at Townsville University Hospital