Earlier in the week, I woke up with this brilliant idea. I would stage my very own Big Freeze Ice Bucket challenge to raise awareness for FightMND. Sometimes I really question the dream fairies and their choice of overnight inspiration because there are times when I wake up with what I think is a brilliant idea; only to later realise that it was a bit shit.
Well not this particular morning!! This particular morning I woke up thinking “I have to do an ice bucket challenge to raise awareness and support FightMND“. I will admit, a little whisper drifted into my mind that said, “but you will get cold“; to which my active thought process kicked in and said “Yes I will, but it will be worth it!” – and it stood like a little superhero with its hands on its hips. This thought was then followed by; “Ooooohhh, what will I dress up in?!”. And that really clenched the decision to get doused in ice water for a great cause.
What Is FightMND and The Big Freeze
The purpose of doing the Ice Bucket challenge was because I want to support The Big Freeze. Every year, as winter hits Australia, something beautiful happens, a big-hearted, big-beanie-wearing nation unites for a cause much bigger than football. That cause is Fighting Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a cruel, terminal illness that slowly robs people of their ability to move, speak, swallow, and eventually breathe.
FightMND is a not-for-profit organisation founded in 2014 by AFL legend Neale Daniher, who was diagnosed with MND in 2013. Instead of retreating, Neale chose to fight, not just for himself, but for every Australian living with this beast of a disease. His philosophy is “It’s not how long you live, it’s how well you live.”
The Big Freeze
The Big Freeze is FightMND’s most iconic annual event. Held during the AFL’s King’s Birthday match and my Dad’s birthday weekend, at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground); – The Big Freeze is at the MCG, not my Dad’s birthday. This frosty fundraiser sees Aussie celeb’s and sports legends slide into a pool of ice-cold water in outrageous outfits to raise money and awareness for MND research. If they can do it, so can I!
From Elsa and Elvis to bananas and ballerinas, nothing is off-limits when it comes to Big Freeze slide outfits. And while the laughs are plenty, the mission is powerful: to raise funds for vital medical research, support clinical trials, and fast-track treatments.
The Big Freeze Beanies are those iconic blue beauties and have become a winter staple across the country. Every purchase of a beanie helps fund the fight, making them more than just warm headwear, they’re a badge of hope, solidarity, and Aussie spirit. I am hoping they will create a full size onesie for next year’s fundraising merch…
Why It Matters
There is currently no effective treatment or cure for MND, and the average life expectancy after diagnosis is just 27 months. FightMND exists to freeze the disease in its tracks by supporting cutting-edge research and giving patients and families the hope they so deserve.
Since its inception, FightMND has raised over $90 million, funding more than 55 research projects, fellowships, and clinical trials. It’s a true testament to what can happen when sport, community, and purpose collide. You can support this kickarse cause by clicking the link and donating or buying a small nation worth of beanies.
Why I’m Getting Cold for a Cause
Every year for this auspicious event my family gather to watch The Big Freeze and then the AFL match that follows. The game features two great Victorian teams, Melbourne Demons and Collingwood Magpies. Half of the family are Melbourne supporters and the better half are Collingwood supporters; just kidding the real winner here is the game of Footy. The Big Freeze is held before the game and is the part of the day where we all sit around the telly and comment on the outrageous outfits and the celeb’s reaction to hitting the bath of ice water. So, this year I have decided to join them by doing my own ice bucket challenge. I also dragged my Dad into helping me since it is his birthday and you will see him very kindly top up the bucket with ice.
DIY Big Freeze: Ice Bucket Challenge Edition
The beauty of a DIY Big Freeze event is its flexibility. Whether you’re at a school, workplace, sports club, or in your backyard, you can tailor the event to suit your community. The classic Ice Bucket Challenge is an affordable and entertaining way to get involved. Just grab a bucket, fill it with icy water, and dare someone (or yourself) to take the plunge. It’s especially fun when you nominate your boss, coach, or that friend who always says “never!”.
How You Can Get Involved
Ready to make a difference for a DIY Big Freeze event, Here’s how:
- Host Your Own Challenge: Organise an Ice Bucket Challenge at your school, workplace, or local club. It’s a fun way to bring people together for a great cause.
- Get Creative: Add your unique twist, costumes, themes, or even a friendly competition—to make the event memorable.
- Share the Experience: Capture the moments and share them on social media using these hashtags. #BigFreeze11 and #TeamUpForBigFreeze11 to spread awareness and inspire others.
- Fundraise: Encourage participants and spectators to donate to FightMND. Every dollar brings us closer to finding a cure.
I’ve taken the plunge — now it’s your turn!
Whether you dump a bucket on your head, rock a beanie, or donate the cost of your coffee, you can be part of freezing MND in its tracks.
Get involved, get drenched, or get donating
🔹Click here to donate to FightMND
🔹 Buy your Beanie here
🔹 Host your own DIY Ice Bucket event
And hey… if you do take the icy plunge, tag me, I want to see those outrageous outfits. #BigFreeze11 #IceBucketChallenge
P.S. Go Pies!!
P.P.S. Happy Birthday Dad.
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