How it felt to watch the finale of a good show that was struggling for ratings.

Being behind the scenes of the finale of a show like Wake Up was an honour this morning.

I’ve been a guest several times during its six-month run, and for a high-stakes show like Wake Up, it’s like working with family. They are all thrust together and given this huge challenge to sink or swim. You can’t help but band together. Added to that the extremely early mornings – most staff wake at 3am – and you quickly become the only people who understand what the other is going through.

http://ivillageau.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/files/Tarsh-and-James-hug.jpg Natarsha Belling and James Mathison finish with a hug on Wake Up on Ten.

In my opinion, all Wake Up needed was time. For the team, they felt like they were just hitting their stride. Natarsha Belling and James Mathison had exactly the right chemistry and were surrounded by talented and hardworking people.

Channel Ten wanted a different feel for it's new breakfast show and chose the stunning location of Queenscliff Surf Lifesaving Club on Sydney's Northern Beaches. That meant a beautiful trip along Manly Beach to get to set, just as the sun was rising. It was truly stunning.

From the moment it went to air, Wake Up had a special feel. It's one of the warmest groups of people I've ever worked with. The 'green room' had the most amazing water view and I wasn't the only guest taking constant selfies on the balcony while waiting for my slot.

I always try not to get too attached to shows I appear on but I completely failed at that with Wake Up. As a writer I'm often asked to discuss various topics on all three networks and on radio stations, but I really wanted Wake Up to work because it was such a great group of people.

http://ivillageau.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/files/Wake-Up-final-appearance-crop-jpg.jpg Trying to keep smiling, moments later reaching for the tissues

I found out the show had been axed when I overheard two colleagues having a discussion in the office. I wasn't surprised but I felt incredibly disappointed. I immediately emailed the two producers I dealt with and said I'd like to come in to say goodbye. "We'll find something for you to talk about," Rachel said. "It will be great to have you on."

So in I went with mixed feelings. I knew they were dedicated to ending on a high and there was an air of sadness but also one of celebration for all that they had achieved.

I was lucky enough to be part of the very first episode and appeared several times discussing parenting issues. To be part of the finale was even more special. I appeared with psychologist Jo Lamble and writer Jo Casamento.

When I arrived there were several security guards out the front. Security has never been noticeable on set and when I asked what it was for was told it was due to news networks trying to chase down a story and get unauthorised photos. I made my way upstairs and there were already tears being shed.

As the 'three Jos', we were asked to discuss how to overcome hardship. Just before we went on air James told us that he wanted the segment to be really positive. "It's not about us," he said. He told us that although he and Tarsh had lost their jobs, they were thinking more of the rest of the team and everyone out there who was struggling much harder than they were. He was just so inspiring. Jo L was able to offer insight on the correct course to take, Jo C  recounted challenges she's faced being a mother and I discussed the struggle of going bankrupt when my husband's business failed in 2009. What we all concluded was that it takes strength, support and resilience. It also takes perspective. There's always someone who has a worse life than we do.

Wake Up had a great debut and a great feel but in today's tough environment, shows have to become consistent ratings successes to have a future. Breakfast TV is a habit for viewers and as we all know, it takes quite a while to change a habit.

Most of the staff only found out this week that it was all over. They too had heard all the rumours but didn't have it confirmed until this week. It's the way it works in television. Some have already found new homes, others plan to rest before looking for new jobs.

Regardless of what the future held, everyone at team Wake Up pledged to make their final shows really special and today's finale did that pledge justice. Natarsha and James  took the time to thank viewers and commented on the overwhelming support they'd received on social media. They thanked each other for the amazing ride, and Natarsha thanked her mum who she says has been 'her rock' over the past two weeks.

150 people lost their jobs today and a good show is no more. I wish all the team at Wake Up all the best. Rumour has it that Channel Ten will offer Natarsha a new role. There's no word of what James' next move will be but I'm sure he will land somewhere amazing.

Their final show really was their best today and it was kind of wonderful to be able to watch it all unfold, tissues and champagne in hand.

Did you watch Wake Up?

Meeting David for the Make A Wish Foundation, take him hot air ballooning

A special edition ON the beach

Hmm...what's wrong with this Easter Egg exchange

James and Natarsha catching fish

On royal-couple-watch, along with the rest of the country

James Mathison sings the 80s

Filming Wake Up from Queenscliff Surf Lifesaving Club, stunning

Aussie stars of Modern Family's down under special visit Wake Up

Natarsha, James and Sam Mac and the Logies

Live from Federation Square

Neighbours star Tim Phillipps in the studio

The hard-to-resist photobomb with Michele Mahone

Michele Mahone, US entertainment correspondent hits our shores

A final goodbye from Wake Up

A touching moment between Natarsha and James

Amazing production crew waving goodbye

Natarsha Belling and James Mathison say goodbye to viewers and thank staff

Nuala and the news team wavin goodbye

Tarsh and James, Wake Up finale

From left, me, Grant, Jo Casamento and Jo Lamble

Wake Up final appearance