Griffith University's Gold Coast campus holds a significant place in Melanie Stirling's life. For her, it wasn't just an educational institution but a space where interests ignited, friendships blossomed, and life unfolded with surprises. Originally from the outskirts of Sydney, Melanie's life took a turn when her family moved to Nerang on the Gold Coast.
Griffith's proximity to her new home and the appeal of pursuing her passions in theatre and music through a Bachelor of Creative Arts program made it a logical choice. Little did she know that this decision would lead to a transformative journey.
During her second year at Griffith, fate introduced her to Christian Stirling in the subject called Stagecraft. Their collaboration on an assessment production of Ubu Roi by Alfred Jarry laid the foundation for a lasting bond.
Their friendship extended beyond academics, filled with nights of laughter, affordable drinks, and karaoke at the Olympic Lounge in Surfers Paradise. Melanie's musical talent with her band, Joker's Grim, often graced the Uni Bar's stage, drawing Christian and their friends to support her. However, life took Christian to the Nathan campus to study a Bachelor of Digital Media Production.
After graduation, Melanie took a job in Fortitude Valley, leading to her relocation to Brisbane. Together, Melanie and Christian’s post-graduation journey took an unconventional turn as scarce media employment opportunities prompted them to enlist in the Australian Defence Force, resulting in periods of separation and reunions during military assignments across Australia and deployments to Afghanistan.
Their love story took a serendipitous turn during a New Year's Eve rooftop celebration in Brisbane when Christian proposed, marking the beginning of a lifetime commitment. Their careers meandered through various terrains, from Hollywood to the travel and tourism industry, navigating different continents, experiences, and professional milestones.
Now based overseas, Melanie serves as the Aussie Specialist Program Team Leader for North America at Tourism Australia, passionately advocating for her homeland while traversing the United States and Canada. Meanwhile, Christian thrives in his role at Lionsgate as Operations Assistant and is also the Co-Founder of Stirling Pictures.
Despite the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, the couple's hearts remain tied to their Australian roots. Melanie reminisces about missing Australian food, clean air, white sandy beaches, and wildlife, particularly laughing kookaburras and koalas.
As they embark on their next chapter, their hearts remain connected to Griffith, a testament to the enduring impact of an institution that catalysed a journey of discovery, growth and lasting true love.