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We’re set to make an even bigger splash than last year in our effort to FightMND

The Big Freeze returns to Healesville Greyhounds Sunday June 7, as greyhound racing and the local community unites in a spectacular day of fundraising and fun for everyone. This is your chance to be part of a bonafide Big Freeze Event — as we fundraise to fight against Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in signature Big Freeze style.

   

Taking centre stage will be 20 brave sliders who will launch themselves down a giant 4.5-metre toboggan slide and plunge into a pool packed with ice water, all in the name of charity and awareness.

For our 2026 event we’ve replaced the dunking machine with a spectacular slide proudly supplied by King’s Fibreglass, a long-time supporter of FightMND initiatives. The company has a rich history with the iconic Big Freeze campaign, having helped build the famous slides used at the MCG during the King’s Birthday Melbourne verses Collingwood matches. Having a replica version at the track will be as close as it gets to the real thing. Our sliders have no idea what they’ve got themselves in for.

Last year’s event had a list of fantastic and brave participants, taking the plunge to support the fundraising effort. They and their organisations raised more than $33,000. This year we’re aiming to double that, with a target of $60,000.

Here’s the current list of sliders ready to brave the cold and take the ‘ride down the slide’ to fight The Beast:

#1 James Van De Matt: Greyhound Race Caller

#2 Russell “Robbo” Robertson: Robbo played 228 games for the Dees and was well known for his high flying marks and singing.

#3 Michelle: Representing the Chirnside Park Country Club.

#4 Jason Thompson: Prominent and current Group 1 winning Greyhound trainer

#5 Community Pete: Australia’s online community platform partner, 100% focused on connecting people to help one another

#6 Cindy McLeish MLA: State MP for Eildon

#7 Kayla Cottrell: Prominent and current Group 1 winning Greyhound trainer

#8 Paul Abela: Prominent and current Group 1 winning Greyhound trainer

#9 Mel Tochner: Founder of the GAP and the Face of the Sandown Vet Clinic

#10 Stuart Lang: CEO Greyhound Racing Victoria

Keep on eye on Facebook as we announce the remaining 11 sliders in the coming weeks.

https://www.facebook.com/HealesvilleGreyhounds

 

The event is part of the wider FightMND campaign inspired by AFL legend Neale Daniher and his daughter Bec, in their ongoing mission to help find effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Motor Neurone Disease. Funds raised through our Big Freeze at the ‘Ville event will go directly toward vital research, care initiatives and support programs for Australians living with MND.

 

Music to our ears

This year’s Big Freeze at the ’Ville promises more than just icy plunges. This family-friendly day will no doubt be focused around the sliders, who’ll race down the slide between the races featured on the day – our first sliders will hit the water just after 11am. However, there will also be live music performed by former high flying Melbourne AFL star Russell Robertson (who has also put his hand up to ride the slide) and music partner Aaron Schembri, who has been touring with Ross Wilson and The Wiggles recently. Aaron collaborated with Russell back in 2022, writing the song ‘Life Is Just a Game’, which was first performed at The G on Big Freeze day in 2022. Once again they’ll thrill us with another heartfelt performance of this song, which has now became a fitting homage to Russell’s former Melbourne coach and close friend Neale Daniher.

 

   

“Over the years, we have all seen and admired the endless work that Neale and his team do for Fight MND in raising awareness about Motor Neurone Disease.”

Having Aaron and Robbo performing with special guest Rosie Conforto, will add to the occasion. We encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the atmosphere and support this incredible fundraising event. Our track side canteen, loaded with heart warming fine fare and beverages will be well stocked, to ensure no one goes home hungry or unrefreshed! And of course you can catch some brilliant racing action between the sliding.

Those looking to support us and our FightMND fundraiser campaign can head to our campaign page to make donations. We look forward to seeing you at the Healesville Greyhounds on Sunday June 7 from 10:30am. Entry is FREE to this event.