The Western Australian community is reeling from a tragic shark attack that claimed the life of 38-year-old Steven “Mattas” Mattaboni, a dedicated Perth father and experienced spearfisherman. On Saturday morning, May 16, 2026, Mattaboni was participating in a small-scale spearfishing outing with friends near Horseshoe Reef, approximately one kilometre off Rottnest Island, when he was attacked by what authorities believe was a great white shark estimated at four to five metres in length. Despite the heroic efforts of his companions, who pulled him from the water and rushed him to shore, Mattaboni could not be revived.
Mattaboni leaves behind his devastated wife, Shirene Mattaboni, a clinical nurse specialist, and their two young daughters — one who is approaching her third birthday next month and a four-month-old baby girl born in January this year. The family’s profound loss has touched hearts across Australia, with tributes highlighting Steven’s role as a fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and utterly devoted father whose world revolved around his wife and children.
In an emotional statement released shortly after the identification, Shirene described the unbearable pain of losing her husband. “Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as ‘Mattas’,” she said. “Steven was a devoted father to our two beautiful daughters — one who turns three next month and our four-month-old baby. The world has lost a truly one-of-a-kind gentleman, and our daughters have lost an incredible father far too soon.” The image of a young family suddenly without their central figure — especially with one daughter’s birthday approaching and a newborn at home — has amplified the tragedy in the public eye.
Friends and colleagues remember Steven as an avid ocean lover and prolific spearfisher who approached the water with respect and enthusiasm. He was not a reckless adventurer but a family man who balanced his passion for the sea with being a hands-on dad. Photos shared by the family show a smiling Steven with Shirene and their daughters, capturing moments of everyday joy that now carry extra weight. The heartbreaking detail that resonates most deeply with many is the timing: a little girl about to celebrate turning three without her father there to mark the milestone, and an infant who will grow up with only stories and memories of the dad who adored her from the very beginning.
The attack occurred around 10am near Horseshoe Reef, a location known for its marine life that attracts both divers and, unfortunately, sharks. Mattaboni and his friends were in the water as part of a friendly competition when the incident unfolded. Witnesses described the event as sudden and horrific. His companions acted quickly, pulling him onto the boat and racing toward Geordie Bay jetty, where paramedics and police performed CPR for more than 30 minutes. A rescue helicopter was also dispatched, but sadly, their efforts were not enough.
Rottnest Island, a popular holiday destination just 19 kilometres off Fremantle, is famous for its white-sand beaches, quokkas, and clear waters that draw tourists and locals alike. While shark encounters are relatively rare, this fatal incident marks Western Australia’s first shark-related death in some time and has renewed discussions about ocean safety. Authorities have urged caution in the area, and searches for the shark were conducted, though no further sightings were immediately reported that altered public access significantly.
Steven Mattaboni worked as a surveyor and was well-regarded in his professional circle. Those who knew him spoke of a man who was “fiercely loyal” and always put family first. His love for spearfishing was part of a broader appreciation for the ocean, but friends emphasize he was experienced and took appropriate precautions. The small group outing was meant to be a relaxing day among mates, not a high-risk endeavour. The fact that the tragedy occurred in waters so close to a family-friendly island has left many reflecting on the unpredictable power of nature.
Shirene’s public tribute has drawn an outpouring of support from across Australia and beyond. Messages of condolence highlight the unfairness of a devoted dad being taken so young, leaving two little girls without their protector. The approaching birthday of the eldest daughter has become a particularly poignant symbol for many — a reminder of celebrations that will now carry both joy and profound absence. Community members have shared stories of Steven’s kindness, his playful interactions with his children, and his quiet strength as a husband and father.
This tragedy occurs against the backdrop of Australia’s complex relationship with its marine environment. Sharks are a natural part of the ecosystem, and great whites are protected in Western Australian waters. While fatal attacks remain statistically uncommon, each one prompts soul-searching about beach safety measures, education, and personal responsibility when entering the ocean. In the case of Rottnest Island, visitors continued arriving the following day, though with heightened awareness and nervousness.
For the Mattaboni family, the coming weeks and months will be defined by unimaginable grief. Shirene, now facing the challenge of raising two young daughters alone, has the support of a tight-knit network of friends and extended family. Tributes from the spearfishing community and colleagues underscore Steven’s positive impact on those around him. Many have offered practical help, from meal trains to assistance with the children, reflecting the respect he earned in life.
The incident also highlights the bravery of the friends who were with Steven. Their immediate response — entering the water to rescue him despite the obvious danger — speaks to the bonds formed through shared adventures. Police and emergency services have praised their actions, noting that they did everything possible in an extremely difficult situation.
As investigations continue and a report is prepared for the coroner, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family. The heartbreaking reality of a four-month-old baby who will never know her father’s embrace, and a toddler whose upcoming birthday will be forever tinged with loss, continues to move people to tears. Steven Mattaboni’s legacy, as described by his wife, is one of love, generosity, and unwavering devotion — qualities that will live on through the daughters he cherished.
In the days ahead, Rottnest Island will likely see renewed emphasis on safety briefings for water users. For the Mattaboni family, however, the priority is processing their loss and finding ways to honour a husband and father taken too soon. The ocean that brought Steven joy has also brought his family unimaginable sorrow, serving as a sobering reminder of nature’s raw power and the fragility of life.
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