New face of RCH appeal

Melbourne’s besieged taxi industry has given little Simone Lionetti a rocky start to her first day as this year’s Good Friday Appeal poster child.

A wheelchair taxi booked for 7.30am to take Simone, 6, to her launch at the Royal Children’s Hospital didn’t turn up, forcing a change of plans.

‘My husband’s still at home waiting for the taxi to bring her wheelchair,’ Ms Lionetti told Neil Mitchell this morning.

Meanwhile, Ella said her daughter, who has spinal muscular atrophy, was thrilled to be the face of this year’s fundraising campaign, after initial apprehension.

‘She’s very excited and proud … and hoping to help raise money for the hospital.’