Beanies, buckets and big impact: Bunnings supports the fight against MND

Every winter, Bunnings outlets across Australia transform from a hardware store into hubs of hope for Australians living with motor neurone disease (MND). Through their longstanding partnership with FightMND, Bunnings has turned community spirit into real-world impact, raising millions for critical research and support programs while shining a light on the daily struggles of those affected by this devastating disease. 

The Big Freeze campaign is at the heart of this partnership. The iconic blue Beanies have become a symbol of solidarity and hope, proudly worn by Bunnings team members and customers alike. Each store becomes a center of energy and engagement, with vibrant in-store displays, decorated A-Frames and enthusiastic staff sharing the story of MND with the wider community. By bringing the cause to life in-store, Bunnings encourages Australians to take part in more than just fundraising. They become advocates, raising awareness among friends, family and local communities. 

One particularly powerful example of the campaign’s impact comes from Hazmir, a Bunnings team member who attended an MND information session as part of the Big Freeze. Little did he know, on the following Valentine’s Day, he would be diagnosed with MND. Determined not to let the diagnosis define him, Hazmir and his family turned their energy into action. Within days, they purchased 700 Big Freeze Beanies for a school event, raising vital funds and spreading awareness and hope among a new generation of MND supporters. 

“By providing an avenue like this [event]… it gets everybody doing something… for people going through MND and the wider community… hopefully we can implement [this event] in different schools as well so this will be a starting point for everyone to get involved,” Hazmir said. 

Bunnings’ commitment goes beyond individual stories. Their National Sausage Sizzle is a much-loved community tradition with stores across Australia host BBQs with all proceeds going to FightMND. Customers can enjoy a classic Aussie snag while directly contributing to life-changing research and support services. It’s a simple, tangible way to turn a day of shopping into a moment of collective action. 

In addition to Beanies and the National Sausage Sizzle, Bunnings has expanded its fundraising range to include buckets and pet toys, giving customers multiple ways to support the cause. Every item sold directly contributes to research and programs that help families living with MND, demonstrating that even small actions, when multiplied across a community, can have a profound impact. 

Bunnings’ partnership with FightMND is a powerful example of what can be achieved when a business and its community come together. It’s more than fundraising. It’s advocacy, awareness and unwavering support for families living with MND. Through the support of its stores, staff and customers, Bunnings continues to play a vital role in creating hope, raising funds, and inspiring communities nationwide.