Australia's governor general, Sam Mostyn, has taken part in the first Big Freeze since the death of AFL great and motor neurone disease (MND) campaigner Neale Daniher. The event, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in front of tens of thousands of spectators wearing blue MND beanies, saw Mostyn take the plunge into an ice bath.
Homage to Daniher's Career
In a tribute to Daniher's playing days, Mostyn wore a split Essendon-Melbourne jersey paired with a Demons cap before sliding into the icy water. The governor general later remarked that if everyone embodied Daniher's spirit, Australia would be 'unstoppable' and a more caring, community-focused nation.
Fundraising for FightMND
The annual Big Freeze event serves as a fundraiser for the FightMND charity, which was established by Daniher following his diagnosis 13 years ago. Daniher, an AFL legend and prominent MND advocate, passed away earlier this year at the age of 65.
Mostyn's participation highlights the ongoing commitment to raising awareness and funds for motor neurone disease research, continuing Daniher's legacy. The event has become a significant fixture on the Australian sporting calendar, drawing widespread support from the community.
