The battle to overcome the beast that is motor neurone disease has kicked up a gear with the launch of FightMND’s Big Freeze 8.

Big Freeze 8 beanies are now on sale at Coles, Coles Express and Bunnings stores across Australia to raise funds and awareness for the fight against MND.

FightMND Patron and co-founder, AFL legend Neale Daniher, who is fighting MND, recently launched the 2022 Big Freeze, which is now in its eighth year.

Purchasing a beanie is a way that every Australian can take up arms against this heartbreaking disease.

“As the beast takes away my ability to be the voice of this fight, this year, more than ever, I’m calling on everyone to come together, play on and help lead the fight against MND – with actions, not words,” Neale Daniher said.

“MND is relentless but so are we. By proudly wearing a Big Freeze Beanie, you’re joining an unstoppable army, united in their determination to fight back and marching as one towards a cure. Together I know we can defeat this Beast. It’s time to Beanie On, Play On.”

All funds raised through the sale of the beanies, as well as 10 cents from every Coles Brand Australian Pork product and 20 cents from every Coles Free Range Pork product sold until 21 June will be invested in cutting-edge research projects focused driving discoveries towards a cure for MND.

“At Australian Pork we are proud to join Coles once again and support FightMND for a fifth consecutive year,” said CEO Australian Pork Limited Margo Andrae.

“The weather is perfect to not only support Aussie pork farmers and enjoy a beautiful roast or pulled pork, but also to support this incredible charity fighting the beast that is MND. We can’t wait to smash records this year through the sale from every Coles Brand Australian Pork and Coles Free Range Pork products.”

The six-week campaign will culminate with a celebration on the Queen’s Birthday public holiday (13 June) at the annual Big Freeze match between the Collingwood Football Club and Melbourne Football Club at the MCG.