Chilly charity plunge

As a College Co-Captain and someone passionate about sport, Zephyr Seignior saw an opportunity for improvement in our sport program.

“I wanted to introduce ice baths for the students to use as physical recovery after a big weekend of APS. Also as a way of testing and improving mental strength.

“Exposure to cold, although challenging in multiple ways, has so many benefits that the students can now experience if they are up for the challenge,” he said.

His idea was welcomed by the College, and three ice baths were soon put into place.

But Zephyr’s fondness for chilly temperatures took him a step further - he wanted the College to host our own ‘Big Freeze 10’ to raise money for research into Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

He put the idea to the other Prefects, and they agreed - what better way to introduce the new ice baths? Together, they approached their teachers, hoping to find some who were brave enough to commit to the plunge.

“We got such a great response - 12 teachers, plus a special appearance from one of our bus drivers.”

The fundraising target was set at an ambitious $3000.

“The funds raised will play a crucial role in advancing research efforts towards finding effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for MND.

It’s not too late to donate

“The event garnered tremendous support from the College community, with generous donations pouring in.”

On Friday 3 May, it was showtime. With the Cloisters filled with students and staff, all eyes were on the ice baths.

The dress code for the plungers varied wildly - with Head of Senior School, Nat Coull, dressed in a full suit, standing alongside Spiderman, a penguin and a surf-lifesaver - with many other weird and wonderful variations in between.

“Our beloved teachers courageously and fearlessly plunged in the icy waters in an act of solidarity,” Zephyr recalled.

There were a few gasps and shrieks as icy water met skin, but these were mostly drowned out by the cheering crowd.

The sacrifice of those 13 brave staff was much appreciated, as evidenced by the fundraising results.

“It by far surpassed expectations. In the end, we were proud to announce that we had raised over $6,000 for MND,” said Zephyr.

A remarkable achievement, indeed, the figure earned The Geelong College the honour of becoming Australia’s top fundraising school for MND.

Congratulations to Zephyr and his team on a great result.

“We urge everyone to keep the donations coming, so that together we can finally beat the beast” - Zephyr Seignior

Please donate online at www.bit.ly/Bigfreeze24

Watch the video of the big event: www.bit.ly/bigfreezevideo