The widower of late Married At First Sight star Mel Schilling has announced a significant life change for himself and their daughter following her tragic death from bowel cancer last month. Gareth Brisbane, who was married to the relationship expert from 2018 until her passing on March 24, took to social media over the weekend to reveal that he and their 11-year-old daughter Maddie are permanently relocating to Bali, Indonesia.
A New Chapter in Bali
“In a few short weeks Maddie and I will be welcomed back into the arms of mother Bali where we will begin our next chapter,” Gareth shared with fans. He explained that the popular holiday island held special significance for Mel, and that moving there would allow him to feel spiritually closer to her. “No better place to heal, a place we all loved and where we still have some of our dearest friends who had the most wonderful blessing ceremony for Mel at our new villa last weekend,” he wrote.
Many of Mel’s closest friends expressed support in the comments. Married At First Sight expert John Aiken wrote, “I love this G! What a beautiful place. Can’t wait to have a whiskey with you before you depart to Bali. Sending all my love.” Fellow MAFS expert Alessandra Rampolla added, “Heading to Bali is the most Mel thing possible. Sending you love as you step into this beautiful next chapter.” Veteran presenter Shelly Horton chimed in, “Sending you both so much love. Bali will be so healing.”
Funeral and Ashes Scattering
In the same post, Gareth provided insight into the family’s private funeral. The Australian psychologist and dating expert died at age 54 after a battle with cancer, leaving behind her British husband of eight years and their daughter. Gareth praised Maddie for delivering a “beautiful” speech at the funeral, which was live-streamed for Mel’s family in Australia. “Every inch her mother’s daughter and I couldn’t be prouder,” he said.
The family followed Mel’s wishes by scattering some of her ashes at the lighthouse in Gareth’s hometown of Whitehead, Northern Ireland. Gareth described it as “a special place that really resonated with her, a place where strangers say hello as you pass, and a place we can now come back to reflect on our incredible 15 years together.”
Mel Schilling’s Battle with Cancer
Mel Schilling was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2023 and underwent treatment in London, where the family had been living. After successful removal of a tumour described as “the size of a lemon,” she was given the all-clear. However, in February 2024, she revealed the cancer had metastasised to her lungs, and over Christmas 2025, it spread to her brain. Gareth confirmed her death in a heartfelt statement, highlighting her love for him and their daughter.
