Overview
- Big Freeze 12 took place Monday at the MCG in the first Big Freeze since Neale Daniher’s death, drawing about 88,000 fans who filled the ground with FightMND blue beanies.
- A Queensland philanthropic couple pledged $40 million to FightMND at a pre-match function, a donation that organisers say greatly increased the day’s fundraising impact.
- The Victorian government contributed $500,000 to the campaign, organisers reported that 100,000 digital beanies were sold, and broadcasters recorded very high TV audiences that amplified donations.
- Organisers presented the newly created Neale Daniher Trophy for the first time and Daniher’s family urged supporters to ‘play on’ and continue the charity’s work; a state funeral at the MCG is scheduled later this week.
- FightMND has already raised well over $140 million since 2014 and today’s surge in public engagement and large gifts is expected to accelerate funding for MND research, clinical care and long‑term efforts to find a cure.