Horan to slide for his mate

LOCAL police sergeant Mathew Horan will slide into the ice this May in honour of a close mate battling Motor Neuron Disease (MND).

Horan will be braving the cold at Big Freeze Geelong 5 on behalf of his good friend John Lee, who has been fighting the crippling disease since April 2025.

John’s family and friends raised more than $17,000 towards Big Freeze 4, and this year hope to notch up $20,000 to assist those in need.

Event organiser Graeme Reid said it was an honour to again have them involved in 2026.

“It’s a really special for us to have Mat sliding on John’s behalf this year, particuarly after John’s sister slid last year for the cause.

“It’s a great show of mateship and the sense of community that the event brings with it.”

The Big Freeze Geelong replicates the MCG Big Freeze, inspired by Neale Daniher and is coming up to its 12th year.

So far, the Big Freeze Geelong DIY group has raised over $260,000 for Fight MND and draws huge community crowds.Big Freeze 5 will take place at Elderslie Reserve in Newtown on May 31.

The sliding will occur at half time of the clash between Newtown & Chilwell and South Barwon.

More local legends and sportspeople are slated to be announced as sliders in the coming weeks.