Tributes are continuing to flood in for AFL great Neale Daniher following his death at the age of 65.
Daniher passed away on Monday following an inspiring 13-year-battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
Known for staring down the incurable condition he famously dubbed “the Beast”, Daniher’s courageous crusade transformed the landscape of medical research funding in Australia.
In an emotional statement, Daniher’s family paid a moving tribute to his unbreakable spirit.
They described him as “a fighter” from day one who confronted his illness with everything he had, refusing to let it dampen his trademark character.
“Even in the toughest times, he kept pushing forward, determined to land as many blows as he could against his toughest opponent, all with a cheeky grin and a sharp sense of humour that never left him,” his family shared.
In recognition of his impact, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced that Daniher will be honoured with a state funeral service.
Premier Allan confirmed the Daniher family had accepted the offer.
“Right now, my thoughts and love go to Jan and the family, and I know the thoughts and love of all Victorians will be going to the Daniher family as we hold them in our hearts today.”
Daniher’s legacy stretches far beyond his 82 games for the Bombers and his 223-game coaching tenure with the Demons.
Through his co-founding of the FightMND charity and the iconic annual Big Freeze fundraisers, he helped raise more than $100 million toward finding a cure, a dedication that earned him the prestigious Australian of the Year honour.
