Family and friends of Steven Mattaboni, a 38-year-old conservationist who was fatally attacked by a shark, gathered at his favorite beach in Perth to say goodbye. Mattaboni was spearfishing off Rottnest Island when he was bitten on the leg by a suspected great white shark. Despite friends performing CPR and paramedics waiting on the island, he could not be revived.
Memorial at Sorrento Beach
On Friday, Mattaboni's wife Shirene and their two young daughters, along with loved ones, gathered at Sorrento Beach to honor his connection to the ocean. Shirene held her children close as she received comfort from family and friends.
Remembering His Character
Liam Thomas, Mattaboni's lifelong best friend, emphasized the importance of remembering Mattaboni for his character rather than how he died. 'Steven was a much loved husband, father, son and brother,' Thomas said. 'He was charismatic, loyal, funny, hardworking and had so many wonderful qualities.'
Mattaboni visited Rottnest Island almost every weekend, regardless of conditions. 'Rottnest will always remain special for us, even more so now,' Thomas added. 'Steve would absolutely want us to continue enjoying the ocean the way that he did.'
The Attack
The attack occurred during a dive Mattaboni had done 'thousands of times before.' A five-metre great white shark was spotted 80 metres offshore around the time of the incident. 'There was absolutely no warning, and Steve didn't understand the danger that he was in,' Thomas said.
Wife's Heartbreaking Tribute
Shirene released a statement describing the loss as 'incomprehensible.' She said, 'Steven was a devoted father to our two beautiful daughters. He was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back.'
An online fundraiser has raised nearly $400,000 for the family, which Thomas said 'will make such a difference for his beautiful little girls.'
