THE ABLETT family is mourning the death of Natasha Ablett, the older sister of dual Brownlow medallist Gary jnr.

Natasha was aged in her mid-30s and was the oldest sibling of Gary jnr, Nathan and Alisha.

Alisha Ablett posted an emotional tribute to her sister on Instagram.

"Natasha — you were the strongest women I’ve ever known with an absolute heart of gold! 1982-2017," Alisha wrote.

Both Gold Coast and Geelong expressed their condolences over the Ablett family's loss.

Suns CEO Mark Evans said in a statement the club would support Gary Ablett jnr.

"The Gold Coast Football Club is heartbroken today at the loss of Natasha and we send our love and support to the Ablett family and Natasha's wider circle of friends," Evans said.

"At this time, we are working closely with Gary and his family to support them where we can.

"We ask the media to respect the privacy and feelings of the Ablett family as this is a deeply distressing time for everyone." 

Geelong also released a statement.

"The loss of Natasha is a terrible tragedy for the Ablett family. All of our thoughts are with Gary, Sue, Gary jnr, Alisha and Nathan and the Ablett family at this time. To lose a child and a sister is devastating and we ask that the family be given time to grieve in privacy," it read.

Gary Ablett jnr wrote this week on the Exclusive Insight website that family reasons were behind his request to return to Geelong from the Gold Coast.

"I need to be around my family back home, who I have spent the last seven years doing long distance with," he wrote.

"My sisters, my brother, and parents all play a huge role in my life, and it's time that I make myself more available to them and others back home."

Anyone seeking help with depression or other mental health issues can call beyondblue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14)