It is always hard to hear about a life ending too soon, especially when it involves someone who was just out doing what they loved. This weekend, the community in Western Australia was hit with devastating news. Steven Mattaboni, a 38-year-old father of two, tragically lost his life in a shark attack while out on the water.
Here is what we know about the incident and the beautiful tributes pouring in for him.
What Happened?
- A Morning with Friends: On Saturday morning, around 10:00 local time, Steven was spearfishing with his mates about 1km offshore.
- The Location: They were at Horseshoe Reef, which is located just north-west of the beautiful and popular Rottnest Island, near Perth.
- The Attack: Suddenly, he was attacked by a 4-meter (13-foot) shark, sustaining a severe bite to his lower leg.
- A Rush to Save Him: His friends acted quickly, rushing him back to shore. Tragically, despite their heroic efforts and those of emergency responders, he could not be revived.
A Devastated Family
The hardest part of this story is the family Steven leaves behind. His wife, Shirene Mattaboni, released a statement that is simply heartbreaking to read.
- An Ocean Lover: She shared that Steven was an “avid fisherman” who truly “lived and breathed the ocean.”
- A Doting Dad: He leaves behind two very young daughters—a three-year-old and a baby who is just four months old. Shirene described him as an “incredible father.”
- A Generous Spirit: To his wife, he was fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and the kind of guy who would literally give you the shirt off his back.
A Community in Mourning
The grief extends far beyond his immediate family. The Kingsley Amateur Football Club, located in Perth’s northern suburbs, also paid their respects. Steven played for the club and was remembered by his teammates and the community as a “much-loved friend to many.”
