Overview
- The Daniher family confirmed he died at home, surrounded by family, on Monday after a 13‑year battle with motor neurone disease.
- Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the family have accepted an offer of a state funeral and formal arrangements will be announced in due course.
- Daniher co‑founded FightMND and helped create the Big Freeze at the MCG, a King's Birthday event that has driven national awareness and raised in excess of $100 million for research.
- Former Essendon player and long‑time Melbourne coach, Daniher combined his sporting stature with public advocacy, earning Victorian of the Year in 2019 and Australian of the Year in 2025.
- Tributes have poured in from the AFL, clubs and politicians, calls are growing to fast‑track Hall of Fame recognition, and the upcoming Big Freeze is expected to serve as a central memorial and fundraiser.