Jemma Stapleton, a 25-year-old Australian sprinter and Stawell Gift finalist, has died while on holiday overseas with her family. The cause of death has not been disclosed, but an online fundraising page shared by her brother stated she "tragically lost her life in an accident."
Tributes from Athletics Organisations
Local Australian athletics organisations have paid tribute to Stapleton, a Victorian athlete who competed in the 2025 Stawell Gift. The Victorian Athletic League said in a statement that Stapleton left a lasting impact on those around her. "Jemma was a valued member of our community whose presence, character and contribution left a lasting impact on those around her," the league said. "On behalf of everyone at the Victorian Athletic League, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time."
Knox Little Athletics, where Stapleton competed as a junior, described her as showing immense talent, determination and "love for athletics." The organisation said: "Her achievements on the track were a reflection of her dedication, competitive spirit and the joy she brought to the sport. Many within our centre will remember Jemma and the Stapleton family with great fondness."
Fundraising Page Exceeds Goal
A fundraising page was set up for Stapleton's family, which read: "It is with great sadness that our beautiful friends the Stapleton family are facing the unmeasurable grief while on a family holiday with the passing of their beautiful daughter, sister and partner Jemma." Created on Thursday, the page has already reached over its $100,000 goal. The page stated: "This GoFundMe has been set up (and approved by the family) to help ease a bit of pressure financially for the family so they can grieve together and spend as much time together as possible to get through and navigate this impossible loss."
Family and Partner Tributes
Stapleton's partner, Tyler Gray, wrote on Instagram: "I can't put into words the hurt I am feeling. You are the single greatest thing to happen to me and I am so grateful for the love we shared. I love you with all my heart." Her brother, Joel, posted a tribute: "Rest in peace. I love you so much, I promise I'll make you proud. You were the best sister and my best friend, I'll forever miss you." Joel also reposted the fundraising page to his Instagram story, saying: "So grateful for you all."
Community Mourns
Lysterfield junior football club, where Stapleton's partner and brother were part of the community, posted a tribute: "While this news reaches us through those connections, today our thoughts are with Jemma, her family, friends and all those who loved her." The Rowville Netball club, where Stapleton was a former player, said the loss of someone so young was "unimaginable." The club said in an Instagram post: "We hope they can find comfort in the love and support surrounding them and in the many memories shared with Jemma. Jemma will always be remembered as part of our Rowville Netball Club family."
Government Assistance
A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson confirmed it was "providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian who died overseas" and sent "deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time."
