2025 Australian of the Year, Neale Daniher AO, encourages us all to play on
As a footy legend and fighter of motor neurone disease – a battle that he has determinedly fought for 10 years and counting – 2025 Australian of the Year, Neale Daniher AO, had many life lessons to share at Auspire’s latest Inspiring Australians’ event.
The lunch, which was attended by more than 220 guests, including Neale’s supporters within the worlds of MND and AFL, was an opportunity to further share his journey, from diagnosis to today, and continue his mission to find a cure.
With all eyes on Neale on stage inside Optus Stadium’s River View Room, a message he had recorded earlier was heard all around – one of truth and wisdom following his ongoing battle with MND.
He urged us all to make time matter, because life is terminal. There is no perfect time, only now. And to look for opportunity even in the darkest of moments.
Neale’s proud daughter, Bec Daniher, took to the stage to lead a Q&A, asking questions and sharing more about their journey as a family, including their mantra of ‘play on’, putting the ‘fun’ in ‘fundraising, and the legacy he would like to leave.
During the afternoon, guests received a Welcome to Country from Auspire Board Member, Barry Winmar, and heard from Auspire CEO, Morgen Lewis, Marcelyn Nicolaou from Presenting Partner, Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, and Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, the Honourable Patrick Gorman MP. The event was emceed by Channel 9’s Tracy Vo.
Thank you to the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, and WA All Abilities Football Association, for supporting this event.
View the official photos from the event here.