Held on June 8 at Rich River Golf Club, Big Freeze Echuca Moama finished as the second-highest fundraising community Big Freeze event in Australia, behind Bairnsdale and ahead of Geelong.
The event was organised by Lorna’s Girls and brought together businesses, volunteers, sponsors and community members in support of motor neurone disease research and care.
Lorna’s Girls was formed in honour of Lorna Hicks, a much-loved community member who lived with MND for two and a half years before passing away at the age of 51.
One of the day’s standout moments was the ice slide, with 18 game locals — dressed in a colourful array of costumes — taking the plunge into freezing water to raise funds and awareness.
The day was brimming with activities for all ages, from the FightMND Golf Tournament and Dash for Cash to mini golf, family-friendly entertainment and a wonderful sense of community celebration that brought everyone together.
Organiser Naomi Beasley said the final fundraising total was an achievement the entire community could celebrate.
"To raise $176,796 and be recognised as the second-largest community Big Freeze fundraiser in Australia is something our entire community should be incredibly proud of," she said.
"This achievement belongs to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, slider and attendee who got behind Big Freeze Echuca Moama."
Ms Beasley said the funds raised would go directly towards MND research and vital support services for those living with the disease, as well as the families who care for them.
She also paid tribute to the late Neale Daniher, whose tireless advocacy and personal battle with MND inspired countless Australians to get behind the cause and push for greater awareness and research funding.
Lorna’s Girls will continue its fundraising efforts in October when the team takes part in Daniher’s Drive, travelling through communities across South Australia.
“The journey doesn’t end here,” Ms Beasley said.
“Every contribution makes a real difference.”
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