Echuca Moama residents turned out in force on Monday, June 9 for the Echuca Moama Big Freeze, raising over $100,000 in support of FightMND.
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The annual fundraiser supports research and care for those battling motor neurone disease, a disorder that gradually takes away a person’s ability to move, speak, eat, and ultimately breathe.
Organiser Lisa Leeds said the event was about highlighting the impact of MND and the importance of community action.
“Today is about more than just the slide, the fun, or the events — although we have plenty of those,” she said.
“Today is about raising awareness and standing together against a devastating disease that impacts so many lives.
“It takes away a person’s ability to move, to speak, to eat and eventually to breathe. But what it cannot take away is the strength of the people around them — families, carers, friends and communities like ours who choose to step up and make a difference.”
While the major event of the day was witnessing 18 sliders take the plunge into icy water, there were plenty of activities for families to enjoy.
The day kicked off with golf tournaments, followed by kids’ activities, a dash for cash sprint and mini golf sessions.
From 1.30pm the sliders plunged into icy cold waters as the community watched on.
While each slider represented local businesses, sporting clubs and organisations, many dedicated their plunge to family and friends who had been affected by the disease.
Sliders were dressed in an array of costumes, including Kath and Sharon from Kath and Kim, Top Gun’s ‘Maverick’, Aquaman, Wonder Woman and many more.
In closing, organiser Naomi Beasley confirmed the final tally had surpassed $100,000, thanking everyone who had made it possible, including volunteers, sponsors and the team at Rich River Golf Club.
The sliders were especially recognised for taking on the challenge, helping drive fundraisers and raising awareness.