Written by Rhea Alison, Sports Reporter, covering international sports since 2020
The Big Freeze 2026 once again proved why it remains one of the most important events on the Australian sporting calendar, attracting huge television audiences and a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground on Monday. Fans, players, broadcasters and supporters united to honour the late Neale Daniher during the King's Birthday clash between Melbourne and Collingwood, helping deliver impressive ratings while continuing the fight against motor neurone disease.
Huge audience tunes in for Big Freeze 12
The annual Big Freeze event reached 1.43 million viewers across Seven and 7Plus, making it one of the most-watched AFL broadcasts of the season. The King's Birthday match between Melbourne and Collingwood reached a total audience of 1.98 million viewers nationally.
More than 88,000 spectators filled the MCG, creating an emotional atmosphere throughout the day. Supporters embraced the annual fundraising event that has become synonymous with Daniher's campaign to raise awareness and funding for MND research.
The occasion carried added significance this year following Daniher's death last month at the age of 65 after a long battle with the disease.
Emotional tribute to Neale Daniher
Before the opening bounce, fans witnessed a moving tribute celebrating Daniher's life and impact on Australian sport and the broader community. Players, officials and supporters came together to remember the 2025 Australian of the Year and one of football's most respected figures.
The crowd responded warmly throughout the ceremony, with many fans visibly emotional as highlights of Daniher's journey and advocacy work were shown around the stadium.
Seven's head of AFL and sport innovation Gary O’Keeffe praised the success of the event.
"Big Freeze 12 was a truly remarkable tribute to the late, great Neale Daniher AO. While we miss him dearly, we know he would have absolutely loved what unfolded at the MCG (on Monday),"
He also acknowledged the strong attendance and television numbers that helped celebrate Daniher's legacy.
“With more than 88,000 fans filling the stands and huge audiences joining us on Seven and 7plus Sport, there could have been no greater celebration of Neale’s life, legacy and the extraordinary impact he had on so many Australians,” he said.
Ratings continue to grow
The Big Freeze broadcast recorded 903,000 national viewers, representing a 13 per cent increase compared to last year. The Melbourne versus Collingwood clash averaged 930,000 viewers nationally, up seven per cent from the previous King's Birthday fixture.
Streaming audiences also surged, with 7Plus Sport attracting 121,000 viewers, doubling last year's figure.
The strong numbers highlighted the ongoing popularity of the event and the connection many Australians still feel toward Daniher's mission.
FightMND receives major boost
The week also brought major fundraising news when Queensland couple Quentin and Kylie Birt were revealed as the donors behind a remarkable $40 million contribution to FightMND.
Speaking on Sunrise, Quentin Birt paid tribute to Daniher's character and influence.
“He’s one extraordinary Australian; it’s a true story. He just did his thing better than all of us put together, that’s all,” Quentin told Sunrise.
“It’s not hard, but it’s very, very hard if you don’t want to do it. You can find an excuse not to do something. He didn’t.
“Money is just a measurement ... you do stuff because you love doing it.”
The donation represents one of the largest contributions ever made to the FightMND campaign.
State funeral to honour AFL icon
Daniher will be honoured again on Wednesday during a state funeral service, which will be broadcast live across several Australian cities.
O’Keeffe reflected on the lasting impact Daniher made through his advocacy work.
“As we come together again tomorrow to honour Neale at his State Funeral Service tomorrow, we reflect on his extraordinary contribution to MND research, advocacy and awareness in Australia,” O’Keeffe said.
“More than that, we reflect on his unique ability to unite people from all walks of life behind a common cause.”
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