Gareth Brisbane Honors Mel Schilling on What Would Have Been Their Eighth Anniversary
Husband of late MAFS coach Mel Schilling – Gareth Brisbane, the devoted husband of beloved television personality Mel Schilling, has shared a heartfelt message commemorating what would have been their eighth year of marriage. The Australian media figure, widely recognized for her warm relationship guidance on Channel 4’s popular reality dating program, passed away earlier this year at the age of fifty-four.
Her passing occurred merely weeks after she publicly revealed that medical professionals could no longer provide effective treatment for her illness. Brisbane took to Mel’s Instagram account to honor their milestone, marking the first anniversary since her death.
A Journey Through Love and Loss
In his touching tribute, Brisbane shared a photograph from their wedding ceremony, capturing a moment where he holds their daughter Maddie while kissing his beloved wife. The post opened with a simple yet profound declaration: “Ah my one.”
Hard to reconcile that the anniversary of the happiest day of my life could become one of the saddest.
Reflecting on their time together, Brisbane acknowledged that while they had not quite reached eight years of marriage or fifteen years as a couple, the quality of their shared existence was immeasurable. He expressed gratitude for the depth of their connection and the richness of their experiences.
We didn’t quite make eight years married or 15 years together but what a love and what a life we had!
He recalled the certainty he felt during their very first meeting, knowing instantly that Mel was the person he wanted to spend his remaining years with. His affection for her continued to grow stronger even as her health declined.
By the end of our first date I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you and my love for you burned ever brighter, even as your own light faded.
Looking Forward While Remembering
Brisbane’s message also looked toward the future, expressing confidence that he and Maddie would find peace as they continue their healing journey. He emphasized how much their daughter resembles her mother and how proud Mel would be of the person Maddie is becoming.
Sleep easy my girl, I hope you know that Maddie and I are in the best possible place to continue healing.
She is every inch your daughter and you would be so proud of the remarkable young woman she is becoming.
Concluding his tribute, Brisbane shared a poetic sentiment about the enduring nature of love beyond death.
Death leaves a heartache no-one can heal, love leaves a memory no-one can steal.
A Battle Fought with Courage
Schilling received her colon cancer diagnosis in December 2023. During the filming of MAFS, she endured sixteen rounds of chemotherapy treatment followed by radiotherapy sessions. Her resilience throughout this challenging period was evident to fans and colleagues alike.
Previously, the television personality had expressed deep appreciation for her husband, referring to him as her “soul mate” in an Instagram post celebrating their seventh wedding anniversary. She described herself as “so grateful” for his unwavering support during difficult times.
Her family officially announced her passing on March 24, stating that she “passed away peacefully today, surrounded by love.” This gentle departure came after months of fighting her illness with determination and grace.
New Beginnings in Bali
Approximately one month following her death, Brisbane shared news on Mel’s social media channels that he and Maddie would be relocating to Bali. The Indonesian island holds special significance for the family, as it was where Gareth and Mel exchanged vows in 2018. The move represents a new chapter for the grieving father and daughter as they seek to honor Mel’s memory while building their future together.
