Chook and Bellingen community brave the Big Freeze for MND

• Village News

Sonia Lim 24 Jun 2026

There was plenty of icy water, courage and laughter at RFBI Raleigh Urunga Masonic Village recently as the community braved the elements for a fantastic cause.

Annette Hofman, affectionately known as ‘Chook’, led a highly successful Motor Neurone Disease (MND) fundraiser, personally raising an incredible $704.30 alongside further undisclosed online donations. The highlight of the day was the iconic Big Freeze slide, which saw an amazing lineup of local personalities and village staff willing to take the icy plunge.

Dunk tank participants included Bellingen Shire Council Mayor Steve Allan, physiotherapy staff Aaron and Zane, care staff Rob and Amy, Care Manager Sue, General Manager Jenny, Paul from our Leisure & Lifestyle team, staff from the Urunga Pharmacy and of course Chook herself.

Following the icy splashes everyone warmed up with a delicious sausage sizzle which was generously cooked and served by Chook’s family. The day provided a wonderful opportunity for the residents, staff and the broader Bellingen community to mingle, share a laugh and rally behind important medical research.

The incredible team effort highlights the shared dedication to charity and community enrichment that defines the warm culture across all RFBI villages.

To learn more about the active community and lifestyle on offer visit the RFBI Raleigh Urunga Masonic Village page. To read more inspiring resident stories and stay up to date with community news explore our RFBI News and Events hub.