One of the AFL calendar’s most emotional traditions returns today, with Big Freeze 12 set to honour the late Neale Daniher and continue the fight against motor neurone disease he championed for more than a decade.
Live from the MCG before the King’s Birthday clash between Collingwood and Melbourne, the annual fundraising spectacle will take on added significance as Australia comes together for the first Big Freeze since Daniher’s recent passing.
First introduced in 2015, Big Freeze has become a much loved fixture of the King’s Birthday blockbuster, raising awareness and vital funding for MND research while delivering plenty of laughs before the opening bounce.
Today’s lineup includes Sunrise weather presenter Sam Mac, media personality Andy Lee, 7AFL commentator Dale Thomas, Governor-General Sam Mostyn, Melbourne great Nathan Jones, Diamonds star Jo Weston, social media personality Dan Gorringe and Olympic gold medallist Cooper Woods.
Seven’s one hour live broadcast will feature a special tribute to Daniher, whose determination and leadership helped transform FightMND into one of Australia’s most recognised fundraising campaigns following his diagnosis with the disease.
Seven Head of AFL and Sport Innovation Gary O’Keeffe said this year’s event carries special significance following Daniher’s recent passing, while encouraging Australians to continue supporting the fight against MND.
“Neale’s courage, determination and commitment to finding a cure for ‘The Beast’ inspired all of us, and this year’s Big Freeze holds special significance for every Australian, following Neale’s recent passing.”
Another poignant moment will see former NRL player Jai Arrow, who recently retired after being diagnosed with MND, toss the coin before the match in front of more than 90,000 fans at the MCG.
The tribute to Daniher will continue later this week, with Seven and 7plus set to broadcast live coverage of his State Funeral Service from the MCG, hosted by Peter Mitchell and Rebecca Maddern.
Fans can also support FightMND by purchasing a personalised Digital Beanie and helping to “fill the G” virtually, with more information available HERE.
Good to see the gg doing the big freeze today another thing she could do is do australia a huge favour and sack the Anthony and call a early election she’d be a real hero then