Chris & Mel Dzelde farewell 5MU and Power FM

South Australian radio hosts Chris and Mel Dzelde are departing their respective gigs with Grant Broadcasters.

The pair have been on leave for the past four months, as Mel continues to battle with stage four rectal cancer.

The Dzelde’s have now decided not to return to their posts at 5MU and Power FM in South Australia.

Mel has worked as the CD for both stations for over 10 years.

“After 12 years working for Grant Broadcasters as content director for Power FM and 5MU, it’s time for me to say goodbye,” she said.

“I’ve had the most amazing time working with the best people in the biz and I’ll miss everyone so much.

“Cancer has a way of showing you your priorities and for me, I’m visualising a future free to explore new projects and opportunities… I know I’ll be a better version of myself as a result.

“I want to thank my team for inspiring me every day. I know you’ll continue to make me proud.”

Chris, host of 5MU Afternoons and Power FM Drive show ‘The Shovel & Bull’ will leave to continue to help care for his wife.

“To the amazing people I have worked with in my nine years at the station(s), thank-you so much, it’s been a blast,” Chris added.

“I’ve been in radio for over 30 years, and I love to see that there are still passionate, talented people still gravitating towards it.

“To the great team I have been lucky to work with, thank-you for your laughs, your kindness, your Spider-Man-like reflexes to respond to the day-to-day, and for the amazing opportunity it has been to learn from each and every one of you.”

Stephen Walker, general manager at 5MU and Power FM, farewelled the Dzeldes and thanked them for their contribution to the sound of each station.

“More importantly they have been energetic, caring and passionate members of our radio family and will continue to be a part of that family even though the current situation means they must step away from being work colleagues,” Walker said.

“I will keep them in my thoughts and prayers as they continue the journey through the months ahead; and look forward to seeing Mel restored to full health.

“With all that’s going on in the world today, it’s easy to forget the battles individuals and families face against cancer and other chronic diseases.”

Adam Connelly, 5MU’s Breakfast host, shared an emotional farewell on his program as well.

“Mel’s compassionate leadership was the mortar that held this station’s bricks together,” Connelly said.

“She is and will always be a part of the fabric of this place, I will forever consider it an honour to have hosted our tributes to Jeff Sunderland and Barry Martin with Mel. A mighty force for the good in broadcasting.”

“Through his actions, Chris taught me how to be a better broadcaster and again through this action he’s teaching me about how to be a better man and husband.”