HI Beano. I didn't see if anyone replied either. I have no experience
with Melaleuca, but a Google search came up with a bunch of websites.
I looked at a couple, and it seems that they might not be a deciduous
species. Both websites I quickly checked mentioned they like damp
sites. Perhaps yours just needed more water? Perhaps they do have a
leafless season coinciding with a dry, rather than cold, season?
I have no idea what a Dwarf Lilly pilly tree could be. If you know the
scientific name, try searching under that.
Sorry I couldn't be of more help.
Bob