Community go ‘all in’ for Big Freeze

THE Geelong Big Freeze has given a $55,000 boost to the FightMND cause, with 17 local sliders braving the ice on a day of celebration and fundraising at Drysdale Recreation Reserve.

For the second year running, the Drysdale Football Netball Club hosted the Geelong Big Freeze event, raising vital funds to go into MND research.

As part of the festivities, local identities headed down the slide and into the ice to claps and cheers, showing their commitment to the cause in front of a large bumper crowd.

Big Freeze Geelong ambassador and nephew of FightMND leader Neale Daniher, James Bruest said they were overwhelmed to eclipse last year’s fundraising total of around $42,000.

“We were just stoked with the day, the sun was out, the crowds were big and the sport on the day was really close as well.

“The sea of blue beanies was really impressive; we were just blown away by the community support once again.

“All the 17 sliders were absolutely huge, they also had amazing costumes, there was Dame Edna, Dustin Martin, Elmo and plenty more.

“To have Bec Daniher at the event, the voice of the FightMND cause was also really special.

“We are so stoked to beat our target from last year and can’t thank the sliders, volunteers, spectators and wider community enough for making it our best yet.”

Mr Bruest said the funds will no doubt help to make a difference in finding a cure for MND and hopefully in time for his uncle Neale to see.

“Seeing Neale’s fight over the last ten years has been pretty inspiring.

“MND research and fundraising wasn’t really on people’s radar 10 years ago, and he has really thrusted it now into the spotlight.

“Everyone admires him, his grit and his leadership, it inspires us to get that win and that cure for him.

“We hope he sees it, it’ll take a bit of time and it’s heading strongly in the right direction with how much everyone is embodying Neale’s spirit of being ‘all in’ for the cause.”