General News
17 June, 2026
Taking the plunge
STUDENTS and teachers at Cobden Primary School bravely faced the cold last Friday and took on the Big Freeze for FightMND, raising crucial awareness for motor neuron disease (MND).
Students dressed in blue and brought a gold coin donation for the day, before the anticipated event of the afternoon where students and teachers were dunked in ice water in front of an excited audience of their peers.
Grade five/six teacher Liam Bishop said Cobden Primary School have been holding a Big Freeze day for quite some time and it was his second year participating in the event.
“The house captains play a big part in organising the day and the sports group does too,” he said.
“It’s important to get behind motor neuron disease and one of the kids, Penny Marlow, had the idea to come up with a Neale Daniher tribute and pay our respects to him and everything he’s done for the disease and trying to find a cure.
“The students played a big part in organising the day and it’s important for them to give back.
“Each of them gave a gold coin donation and wore blue to get behind the cause.
“It’s really important as a school that we get behind it.”
Before the big event, student Penny Marlow gave a short speech honouring Neale Daniher and all he had contributed to the FightMND cause.
“Neale passed away on May 25, 2026, and today we honour not only his life and achievements, but also the hope and determination he inspired in so many people,” she said.
“Many people know Neale as a former AFL player and coach, but he is also an incredible role model.
“In 2013, he was diagnosed with motor neuron disease, or MND.
“Even though he faced a very difficult challenge, he chose to help others instead of focusing on himself.
“Neale started FightMND and worked tirelessly to raise money and awareness for MND research.
“Through events like the Big Freeze, he inspired people all around Australia to support the search for a cure.”
Penny said without Mr Daniher, there wouldn’t be a Big Freeze day at Cobden Primary School.
“By dressing in blue and raising awareness about MND, we are playing our part in helping FightMND and supporting the search for a cure,” she said.
“What made Neale so inspiring was his courage, determination and positive attitude.
“He showed us that even during tough times, we can still make a difference and help others.
“Today, we thank Neale Daniher for his strength, leadership and hope.
“His story reminds us to be brave, never give up, and always look for ways to help those around us.”
Students from the sports leadership group were the first to be dunked, followed by a selection of teachers who put their hands up to be a part of the event.
An estimated 2800 Australians were living with MND in 2025.
MND was the underlying cause of 781 deaths in 2023 and there is currently no known cure.
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