Melina has four kids: Hali 12, Bryte 11, Sailor 7 and West 4, who play sport of their own including sailing, swimming and surf lifesaving.

With their sport, school and social engagements it means Melina doesn’t have a big window to train for the Ironman.

“Family comes first for me,” said Melina.

“I train early in the mornings before they are awake and am back to help them get ready for school or I train while they are at school. I try to get most of my training done during the week, because weekends are family time.”

Despite the hectic schedule Melina said she is on track to compete in her first Ironman, although a couple of years ago she didn’t think she would ever be in this position.

“I never thought I’d do a half Ironman, let alone a full Ironman. I started riding, which was a good experience and that led to training for a half Ironman.

“Once I’d done one it became addictive, I had to do another and another.”

Since becoming addicted to Ironman, Melina has completed three half Ironmans and was part of a team in the 2008 Busselton Ironman.

Now she feels that she is ready to take the next step and compete in her first full event.

“I am excited to be doing the full Ironman. My goal is to finish nicely, with a smile on my face, not pushing myself to the extreme. I will be happy to finish and hear them say ‘you are an Ironman’,” she said.

Her kids are also looking forward to seeing her compete and her husband Heath will be making sure they get around the course to see mum racing.

“He has been a fantastic help to me, so keen and supportive and will be driving the kids around the course to see me on the day. My kids are very excited for me and very proud.”

And what will Melina be looking forward to after a 3.8km swim, 180km ride and a 42.2km run?

“Relaxing and enjoying summer with my family and going back into the rhythm of a normal life. At least until the next event,” she said.