The region’s third annual Big Freeze event is on the move.
After two successful years at Drysdale, the Big Freeze is set to be held at Herne Hill Reserve before the blockbuster St Joseph’s vs St Mary’s Geelong Football League game.
The Big Freeze Geelong replicates the MCG Big Freeze, which is inspired by Neale Daniher coming up to its 10th year.
The first two incarnations of the local event were hosted by Drysdale Football Netball Club, home of Big Freeze Geelong co-ambassador James Breust, who is Neale Daniher’s nephew.
So far, the Big Freeze Geelong DIY group has raised more than $120,000
for Fight MND and drawing big community crowds.
Each year, local celebrities are chosen to make the slide into the icy water to raise funds for Fight MND.
Australian Diamonds and Melbourne Vixens star Emily Mannix has been announced as the first slider.
Mannix played her junior netball at Drysdale and is one of the best defenders in the Super Netball competition.
“We are thrilled to announce Emily as our first slider, as she is a Drysdale girl,” event organiser Graeme Reid said.
“We are also extremely grateful to Drysdale DFNC for hosting the first two years, and for their continued support. The need for a standalone Sunday game presented some challenges, hence the need to seek another location for Big Freeze Geelong DIY #3.
“The Drysdale connection is a huge legacy for this great event. We have a great mix of 15 Geelong celebrities and sportspeople taking the plunge and fundraising for the great MND cause.”
Co-ambassador Sam Moorfoot will again be in charge of his own ‘Sam’s choice’. Last year, he nominated Geelong Cats AFLW duo Chloe Scheer and Mikayla Bowen to slide, which they did as a penguin and Spiderman respectively.
Organisers are expecting a crowd of 8000 and are hoping to raise $100,000 this year.
The Big Freeze Geelong DIY team will be at the Geelong vs Richmond game at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday June 1 selling Fight MND beanies.
Big Freeze Geelong #3 is on Sunday June 2 at Herne Hill Reserve from 12.30pm.
