The annual Big Freeze event captivated audiences as it featured ten prominent stars, showcasing their comedic talents while raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease research. This year’s event took place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) just ahead of the much-anticipated King’s Birthday clash between the Melbourne Demons and Collingwood Magpies.
Fellow Australian Olympic gold medalist swimmer and Australian of the Year Ariarne Titmus helped ring in the festivities, diving headfirst into the cold plunge. She hit the stage with a colorful retro-themed outfit, modeled after OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN. This move gave the entire event a charmingly retro vibe.
Neale Daniher, a leading actor in the battle against Motor Neurone Disease and former AFL coach, was next. Daniher put on a costume as Sharon Strzelecki, the iconic character from the legendary Australian TV show Kath and Kim. He was most looking forward to the MCG lap of honour. The audience exploded with applause when he surveyed the field with quiet determination. He really did personify the fun and resilience that makes the Big Freeze so special.
Memorable Appearances
Chris Evans, one of the most celebrated figures in the Australian media landscape, stole the show with his legendary arrival. He came dressed as Max Gawn, captain of the Melbourne Demons, fresh out of the tumble dryer! Instead, Evans slid into the pool and was immediately met by Gawn. They had a good chuckle together, a testimony to the great esprit de corps of all the participants.
Footy icon and father of present day stars Nick and Josh Daicos, legendary footballer Peter Daicos trotted out in civvies as well. When asked, he jokingly responded that “this is how I dress all the time,” which got an uproarious laugh from the audience. Yet, his sons decided not to take the stage with him for this momentous occasion, instead watching from afar.
The opening ceremony also honored cricket great Shane Warne, arguably Australia’s most famous cricketer. One role-player even embodied his character by assuming the role of first slip. It was a burden he shared through the large parts of Warne’s most famous Test wickets. This tribute was tinged with deep emotion as people in attendance reflected on Warne’s impact and remembered his legacy.
Notable Moments
The Big Freeze has gained a reputation over the years for its fun-hearted but meaningful moments. In years past, Chris Fagan was known to famously tear his hamstring while sliding into the water. This year was marked by Nick Riewoldt’s splash as Freddie Mercury with plenty of flamboyant pizzazz, a vocal statement on his unconventionality.
One of the standout moments came when former sprinter Matt Shirvington slid in dramatically while holding a massive hammer aloft in his right hand. He made quite a splash when he hit the freezing water. His red cape came dangerously close to decapitating him on contact, turning a surprising performance upon execution!
The Big Freeze is not just an entertainment spectacle, but rather one of the largest fundraising efforts for Motor Neurone Disease research. Celebrities and sports stars are always quick to lend their support to the event. It’s become the jewel in the AFL calendar crown.
