Term 2 at The Knox School saw students turn up the energy – and turn down the temperature – with the 2025 DIY Big Freeze fundraiser for FightMND (click to open). With ice buckets, laughter and a whole lot of heart, our community came together to support research and care for those living with motor neurone disease (MND), a cause that struck a chord with students and staff alike.
Led by our Social Justice, Diversity and Inclusion Prefects, Savi Jayawickrema and Eashan Dureja, ‘The Knox School Big Freezers’ team set out with a goal: to raise $3,000 for FightMND. Through creative campaigning, engaging activities, and plenty of community spirit, the initiative became much more than just a fundraising effort – it became a shared mission.
The highlight of the campaign was undoubtedly the Big Freeze event on Friday 27 June 2025, when students earned the chance to dunk their favourite (or most brave!) teachers with buckets of icy water. This playful twist added an exciting incentive to raise funds, while also bringing the school community closer together. Staff members who volunteered for the Ice Bucket Challenge showed inspiring support, some with more trepidation than others, but all with a smile. The laughter and cheers that echoed across the campus were not just signs of fun – they were evidence of a united front in the face of a serious issue.
MND is a devastating illness that impacts thousands of Australians. With a grim average life expectancy of just 27 months following diagnosis, support for medical research and patient care is urgent. Every dollar raised through this initiative contributes directly to improving treatment, care, and, hopefully, one day finding a cure.
Toni-Ann Bright, our Associate Principal of Culture, Community and Operations, shared the following after the event:
Savi and Eashan’s leadership throughout the campaign was exceptional. Their collaboration with staff and students alike ensured that the fundraising drive remained both inclusive and impactful. They encouraged their peers not only to donate, but to understand the importance of the cause, bringing a powerful educational element to the event. Their passion reminded us all that real change starts with small actions – like getting a little wet on a cold winter’s day.
Thanks to the generosity of students, families, and staff, The Knox School Big Freezers came close to their fundraising goal, with donations still trickling in at the time of writing. More importantly, awareness of MND has grown in our community, reinforcing our values of compassion, action, and unity.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the event – whether by donating, spreading the word, or simply cheering on the brave teachers who took an icy plunge for a good cause. As always, our community has proven that when we come together, we can make a real difference.
To learn more or support the campaign, visit their fundraising page (click to open). Let’s keep the momentum going and continue working toward a future free from MND.
