Everything from soft toys to board games, bicycles and Barbie dolls were unloaded from the United bus and handed over to the eager kids, with several boxes left at a distribution centre in Fernvale where stricken families can collect items that will help them with day-to-day necessities as they rebuild their lives.

United arranged for a local media outlet to cover one school visit, but conducted the rest in private as they spent time with youngsters who have harrowing memories of the flood disaster.

After hearing some of the emotional and shocking stories from teachers and children alike, Vice-captain Michael Thwaite spoke of his admiration for a community who had shown such resilience in the face of the most extreme adversity.

"The spirit and character of these people, especially the kids, is just amazing," he said.

"They've taken all this in their stride regardless of the level of devastation they've suffered. You hear and read about community spirit at times like these, but we witnessed it first-hand today.

"Everyone in this area has helped their neighbour and although for many it will take a very long time to get back to normal, you can see from their attitude that they will get there.

"Some of the stories we've heard today have been both harrowing and uplifting at the same time. It's been a very humbling experience for all the players and we're just so glad we could help put some smiles back on the faces of these kids."