Tributes Pour In for ‘One-of-a-Kind’ Father Killed in Rottnest Island Shark Attack
The community of Western Australia is mourning the loss of Steven Mattaboni, a 38-year-old father of two who was killed in a shark attack off the coast of Rottnest Island on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Described by his family and friends as a devoted father and a generous soul, Mattaboni was spearfishing with friends when the fatal encounter occurred.
- Victim: Steven “Mattas” Mattaboni, 38.
- Location: Horseshoe Reef, north-west of Rottnest Island, Western Australia.
- Incident: A shark attack occurred around 10:00 local time while spearfishing.
- Community Impact: A GoFundMe campaign has raised over £86,000 to support his wife and two young daughters.
The Incident at Horseshoe Reef
Steven Mattaboni was approximately 1km offshore at Horseshoe Reef when he was attacked by a shark. Police reports describe the event as “horrific,” noting that Mattaboni was bitten on the lower leg.
Despite the immediate efforts of his friends, who retrieved him from the water and performed CPR during the transit back to the Geordie Bay jetty, emergency services were unable to revive him. Sergeant Michael Wear, the officer leading the investigation at Rottnest Island, confirmed that the victim’s friends witnessed the event and acted quickly to bring him to shore.
Western Australia Police Minister Reece Whitby praised the bravery of the divers involved, stating, “I want to acknowledge the diver’s friends who played a critical role in doing the best they could to bring him back to shore.”
A Devoted Father and Community Figure
His wife, Shirene Mattaboni, shared a heartbreaking tribute to her husband, describing him as her “soulmate” and an “incredible father” to their two daughters—one of whom turns three next month, and a four-month-old baby.
“Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as ‘Mattas’. An avid fisherman and spearfisherman, who lived and breathed the ocean, he was always in tune with the sea. He was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back.”
Beyond his family, Mattaboni was a well-known figure in the local sporting community. The Kingsley Amateur Football Club in Perth’s northern suburbs issued a statement remembering him as a “much loved friend to many within our club community,” adding that his “smile and presence that could light up a room” would be remembered fondly by all.
Community Support and Fundraising
In the wake of the tragedy, loved ones launched a GoFundMe campaign to provide financial stability for Shirene and their two young children. The response from the public has been overwhelming; by Monday, May 18, the fundraiser had already raised more than £86,000. The appeal described Mattaboni as an “incredibly kind and genuine man who brought warmth and happiness to those around him.”
Shark Activity in Western Australia
The attack coincides with reported shark activity in the region. Surf Life Saving WA noted that a 16ft great white shark had been sighted around 10:00 am on Saturday, near the time of the incident. Several great white shark sightings were logged on the WA government’s SharkSmart website around the same period.
This tragedy marks the first deadly shark attack in Western Australia since March of last year. While shark encounters are a known risk in Australian waters—with roughly 1,300 documented attacks and 260 fatalities since 1791—the loss of a young father has sent shockwaves through the local community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the attack take place?
The attack occurred at Horseshoe Reef, located north-west of Rottnest Island near Perth, Western Australia.
What was Steven Mattaboni doing at the time?
He was spearfishing with friends approximately 1km offshore.
How can people support the family?
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Shirene Mattaboni and their two daughters.
An official inquiry into the fatality remains open as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the attack.
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