A large tree branch has fallen on a playground injuring a woman and child at a popular inner-city park in Brisbane.

Emergency services rushed to Guyatt Park in St Lucia about 6pm on Wednesday when the tree branch – which Nine News described as running the length of the playground – struck an eight-year-old boy and a 29-year-old woman.

A weekly community dinner run by Greens MPs Elizabeth Watson-Brown and Michael Berkman was taking place nearby. Neither was in attendance.

The boy suffered head injuries and the woman’s arm was injured by the falling tree.

Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed four crews attended the scene, and said the woman was taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, while the boy was taken to the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

In a statement posted online, Berkman praised park goers and dinner attendees for providing prompt assistance to the pair.

“Around 5.45pm a large tree branch fell in the playground area at Guyatt Park, seriously injuring one woman and a young boy. My community meals team was there at the time for our regular dinner,” he wrote.

“I hear that there was an incredible effort from everyone in the park to move the tree, get firies and ambos there, and help out wherever possible. I couldn’t be prouder of our community right now.

“Obviously medical professionals are still assessing the situation, but I understand the woman is receiving treatment for traumatic injuries to her arm.

“The young boy sustained more serious injuries, including a head injury, but thankfully is responsive.

“I am grateful that there were no lives lost in this frightening accident.”