Farewell to a legend: Thousands at the 'G for Daniher's funeral

• Listen live to Neale Daniher's state funeral here from 1pm

Neale Daniher's final farewell will take place at the MCG today with his family, thousands of fans and members of the footy and sporting world expected to attend.

Daniher, who battled MND for 13 years, passed away surrounded by his family on May 25th leaving behind an incredible legacy which stretches well beyond AFL.

In the face of MND Daniher embodied strength, courage, poise and grace throughout his fight against ‘the beast’.

Daniher’s footy exploits as Essendon captain and Melbourne coach were impressive, but not as mighty as his fight against MND which will be regarded as his greatest legacy.

We will bring you updates from the state funeral below from 12pm AEST. Listen on SEN Fanatic and the SEN app from 1pm AEST.

SEN's Tim Watson who was a dear friend of Neale has paid tribute to the legacy he leaves behind.

"Today is a solemn occasion but I know Neale would not want people to wallow in the occasion," he told Channel 7.

"I know he’s had a big hand in organising today. Play On is about don’t dwell too much on the hurt. We don’t always feel 100% but you have to push on.

"We have to push through and tomorrow is going to be a better day. I often think about Neale on days I’m struggling and how would he approach it?

"I was lucky enough to know him. He wouldn’t want everyone sitting there this afternoon and not having a smile."

Neale's former team mate Paul van der Haar has arrived at the MCG, this is what he had to say about his mate.

"He was a very smart player, very intelligent. It’s so unfortunate he only got his handful of games. We’re here to remember him for his lifestyle.

"There’s a lot of other things in life we were able to enjoy. I have a lot of fond memories. I don’t think you get too many people that would do the same thing as Neale. Most would curl over and say ‘I’m done’.

"I look at it and I go back through life, he was such a great fella. It’s just one of those upsetting things in life."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to lead tributes at Daniher's funeral today as will his widow Jan.

Tributes are also expected from Chris Fagan, former Dees star David Neitz and Daniher's family members.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Governor-General Sam Mostyn will also attend.

“Neale Daniher was a great Australian," Allan said.

“And with the support of his family, Victoria will proudly honour him with a State Memorial Service – a fitting tribute to an extraordinary life and an extraordinary contribution.

“Jan, Lauren, Luke, Bec, Ben, and the wider Daniher clan, our hearts are breaking for you.

“And to Neale, thank you.

“Champion footballer.

“Champion fighter.

“Champion."

Daniher's legacy

He was named the 2025 Australian of the Year for his tireless work with FightMND which was established in 2014.

Despite the hardship he endured late in his life, Daniher’s spirit never broke and he remained steadfast in his approach to beating the beast.

Thanks for everything you did, Neale. Rest In Peace.

State funeral details:

• 1pm on Wednesday, June 10th (AEST)
• Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
• Please enter via Gate 2 from 12.00pm (MCC Members’ Reserve).

Accessibility

The MCG’s G-Train mobility shuttle service will be in operation for patrons who require assistance closer to the entry gate.

Gate 2 at the MCG is accessible. MCG staff will be able to assist you in locating your seating.

For in-venue information, please visit the MCG’s accessibility webpage.

Closed captions will be available on the live stream of the service.

Donations

In lieu of flowers, and at the request of the Daniher family, donations may be made to FightMND. To donate, visit fightMND’s website.