Big Freeze 12: united in the fight against MND
Every King’s Birthday weekend, something remarkable happens. Australians across the country pull on their Big Freeze Beanies and come together in support of those living with motor neurone disease (MND).
Big Freeze 12 marks another powerful chapter; shaped by the resilience and leadership of FightMND Co-founder and Patron Neale Daniher and carried forward by the community he inspired.
For more than a decade, Neale’s advocacy has helped transform the fight against MND, driving investment into groundbreaking research and programs that support those affected by the disease. What began as a bold idea has grown into a national movement.
While Neale will be deeply missed, the fight he led continues. His call to action, Play On, resonates stronger than ever.
This Big Freeze, we honour his legacy by coming together, raising awareness and supporting the work that will help create a future free from MND.
We Play On, for Neale.
State Freezes take the fight coast to coast
Big Freeze 12 is reaching communities across the country, with State Freeze events helping “freeze the nation” in support of the fight against MND.
The Queensland Freeze kicked things off last weekend, with Brisbane Lions supporters turning out in strong numbers to show their support for the cause. Thank you to everyone who attended on the day.
The Adelaide Crows will kick-start a big weekend as they bring the Chill on the Hill back for the SA Freeze on 4 June. The dunkee lineup features former AFL player and radio host Ryan Fitzgerald, Australian Diamonds squad member and Adelaide Thunderbird Matilda Garrett, 7News Adelaide presenter Mark “Soda” Soderstrom, cricket broadcaster and writer Bharat Sundaresan, and SA Health Minister Blair Boyer. It is shaping up to be an unforgettable evening.
We then head west on 6 June, as the West Coast Eagles host the WA Freeze at Optus Stadium. Triple M’s Katie Lamb has been revealed as the first dunkee, with more names to be announced soon via West Coast Eagles’ social channels.
From Brisbane to Adelaide and Perth, State Freezes continue to unite Australians behind one cause: a future free from MND.
King’s Birthday Eve: Honouring Neale’s legacy
As Big Freeze 12 activities unfold across the country, the King’s Birthday Eve clash between Essendon and Carlton provides a special opportunity to reflect on why the fight against MND matters.
A dedicated pre-game tribute will honour Neale Daniher’s extraordinary contribution to the MND community, celebrate his legacy and recognise the impact he has had on research and awareness.
It’s a moment to remember those affected by MND, acknowledge the progress achieved so far and recommit to the work still ahead.
Play On, for Neale
No matter where you are in Australia, or around the world, there are plenty of ways to support the fight against MND:
Watch it live: Tune in from 2:00pm AEST on Seven and 7plus Sport.
Join the Walk: Be part of the Zurich Walk to the ‘G from Federation Square.
Grab a Digital Beanie: Help FightMND fill the MCG with Digital Beanies this Big Freeze.
Wear your Big Freeze 12 Beanie: Show your support and wear it with pride.
Get social: Share your Big Freeze moments using #BigFreeze12.
What’s Happening on Big Freeze 12?
From the Zurich Walk to the ‘G to the iconic Big Freeze Slide and the King’s Birthday blockbuster between Collingwood and Melbourne here’s your guide to the day.
- 10:00am – Zurich Walk to the ‘G activities begin at Federation Square
- 12:15pm – Walk to the MCG commences
- 12:30pm – Public gates open at the MCG
- 2:00pm – The Big Freeze Slide takes centre stage as our Sliders take the icy plunge for MND awareness
- 3:15pm – Melbourne and Collingwood face off in the annual King’s Birthday clash
Can’t make it to the MCG? Catch all the Big Freeze 12 action live and free from 2:00pm AEST on Seven and 7plus Sport.
Walk with the Dees at the Zurich Walk to the ‘G
Start your King’s Birthday morning with the spirit of community at the Zurich Walk to the ‘G.
From 10:00am, Federation Square will come alive with entertainment, Q&As with Melbourne players past and present, kids’ activities, giveaways and activations, all in support of FightMND.
Pick up a Big Freeze Beanie, enjoy a snag at the Demon Army BBQ and soak up the atmosphere before thousands of supporters make their way to the MCG at 12:15pm.
It’s a family-friendly way to kick off Big Freeze Day, connect with the community and show your support for everyone impacted by MND.
For more information about the Zurich Walk to the ‘G, visit the Melbourne Demons website.
Play On, for Neale
This Big Freeze, we Play On, for Neale.
From State Freezes to King’s Birthday Eve to the Big Freeze at the ‘G, Australians are coming together for people living with MND. Every Beanie. Every donation. Every act of support continues the work started by Neale Daniher, Pat Cunningham and Dr Ian Davis.
Big Freeze 12 is a reminder that the fight doesn’t stop when the game ends. It continues every day. Through research, awareness and action.
Be part of it no matter where you are in the world. Donate by grabbing your Digital Beanie and help fight the Beast.
