A professional aerialist sustained severe jaw injuries when her equipment failed during a performance at a Fortitude Valley venue.
Leonie Ceraolo suffered a shattered jaw, broken arm, and multiple other injuries after her sway pole snapped during testing, sending her plummeting more than six meters onto concrete at the Wickham Hotel on Sunday.
Emergency services responded to the Fortitude Valley establishment at approximately 11:47 AM following reports of a fall from height.
Ms. Ceraolo shared on social media: “The sway pole snapped when I was in testing post event. Fell more than six metres high from snapped post on the road of the Wickham. Shattered jaw, broken arm, plus few injuries. I’m so grateful I’m still here today. I’m not done yet.”
The aerial performer specialises in acrobatic performances throughout the Brisbane region. It remains unclear what event she was booked to perform at on Sunday.
A spokesperson for the Wickham Hotel confirmed the incident but declined to provide further details, stating: “Our thoughts and well-wishes go out to the individual involved. Out of respect for their privacy and to ensure the integrity of the investigative process, we are unable to comment further at this time.”
Workplace Health and Safety has been contacted regarding the incident.
Friends of Ms. Ceraolo have established a GoFundMe campaign titled “Leonie’s Smile” to assist with her recovery expenses. The fundraiser, organised by Tess Quarrell on behalf of Ms. Ceraolo, has raised $8,015 of its $14,000 goal as of May 6, 2025.
The campaign explains that Ms. Ceraolo faces financial challenges due to her inability to work while recovering, ongoing medical expenses including dental work, and continuing obligations such as mortgage payments and animal care.
Published 6-May-2025
