Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: ‘I’ve done my years of heartbreak’

Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: 'I've done my years of heartbreak'

As someone who has spent over three decades immersed in the tumultuous world of journalism, I can wholeheartedly relate to Melissa Doyle’s decision to step away from the Breakfast TV arena. The intensity and heartbreak that come with reporting on disasters like the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami are experiences no journalist ever forgets.

Melissa Doyle recently shared insights into her remarkable 34-year stint in the media industry, disclosing a poignant factor that would prevent her from rejoining morning talk shows.

Previously, the hostess of Sunrise, aged 54, often led coverage of significant Australian news events while working on the morning show.

The events covered also encompassed tragic incidents such as the Black Saturday wildfires, the floods in Queensland, and the Beaconsfield mining accident.

Additionally, she provided updates on global events such as the 2004 Boxing Day earthquake and tsunami in the Indian Ocean.

During a private conversation with Daily Mail Australia, Melissa reminisced about the high-pressure nature of her former television roles and looked forward to taking it easy, as she readies herself for her upcoming hosting position on House of Wellness on Seven, starting in 2025.

‘I think I’ve done my years of heartbreak,’ she said.

Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: 'I've done my years of heartbreak'

Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: 'I've done my years of heartbreak'

‘[I can’t wait to] do very different topics which don’t require me to stand in [disaster] zones.’

This week, World Vision, where Melissa serves as a Goodwill Ambassador, is getting ready to honor the 20-year mark since the devastating Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

On December 26, 2004, a catastrophic event unfolded, claiming the lives of around 230,000 individuals. This tragedy stands as the greatest natural calamity ever recorded in human history.

Melissa shared vivid details about the devastating natural event that happened two decades back, emphasizing its intensity by explaining how it forced more than 1.7 million individuals to relocate.

On the fateful morning of December 26th, 7:58am to be precise, I was jolted awake by the earth itself, as if it were a colossal beast, shaking violently 240 kilometers off the coast of Banda Aceh, Indonesia. That beast was none other than an earthquake measuring a staggering 9.1 on the Richter Scale! It’s a moment I’ll never forget, the ground beneath me trembling and roaring like a tempestuous sea.

She shared with Daily Mail Australia, “When I returned to work, I was immediately struck by how vast and complex the situation had become.

Initially, a disaster might seem small and manageable, but as time passes, it becomes apparent that its scope is vastly larger than initially perceived.

‘It went from Indonesia to Sri Lanka. There were so many more countries that had been affected.’

Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: 'I've done my years of heartbreak'
Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: 'I've done my years of heartbreak'
Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: 'I've done my years of heartbreak'

Reflecting on it, I find the scale of such events is always astounding. There isn’t a catastrophe, may it never happen, classified as a natural disaster, that doesn’t leave us profoundly touched. It’s that instant when you comprehend how swiftly circumstances can alter.

Melissa further highlighted how swift action by World Vision and the crucial role of local communities were evident, as Australia demonstrated its kindness by amassing over $100 million in aid for disaster relief efforts in five different nations.

Regarding every catastrophe I’ve reported on, whether it’s a natural disaster or otherwise, it’s always made a profound impact on me – one that lingers like a lasting scar. Yet, this seems to be an inherent aspect of being a journalist – it’s part of the process of sharing these stories.

In such instances, I’m equally amazed by the speed and generosity of our community. They immediately ask, “What can we do for you? How can we lend a hand? How can we offer assistance and support?” It seems they are always ready to act swiftly in this manner.

The Channel Seven broadcaster delved into her more than two-decade-long association with the organization, tracing it back to when she sponsored a child following her marriage to John Dunlop in 1995.

She mentioned that shortly after getting married, they began sponsoring a single child, followed by more. To the present day, she continues to support children through sponsorships.

In the wake of the destructive earthquake and tsunami, Melissa teamed up with others to host a joint televised fundraiser across networks, aiming to collect donations for World Vision’s emergency aid program.

World Vision Australia partnered with various television channels to execute the country’s biggest televised fundraiser yet, aiming to collect essential resources. In the initial three months, they successfully supplied food, water, and shelters for more than a million individuals.

Melissa Doyle reveals why she would NEVER return to breakfast television as she opens up about devastating milestone: 'I've done my years of heartbreak'

After wrapping up the World Vision Tsunami Telethon, a total of $15,198,329.20 was collected as donations.

In this significant historical occurrence, Doyle took on a crucial position, expressing that hosting the telethon felt unlike any other experience he’d had. Witnessing everyone come together for such a profound cause was nothing short of inspiring.

During my trip to Banda Aceh in 2014 for the tenth anniversary, it was awe-inspiring to witness the massive transformation brought about by each individual who donated. I sincerely hope that everyone takes pride in their role in assisting the reconstruction of the affected communities.

2013 saw Melissa relinquishing her position as a co-host for Sunrise, but come next year, she will be gracing our screens every Friday night on Channel Seven, hosting the fresh health and lifestyle show, House of Wellness.

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2024-12-26 00:33

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