Deep sorrow has engulfed Perth and the Western Australian community following the tragic death of 38-year-old Steven “Mattas” Mattaboni, a devoted father and experienced spearfisherman killed in a shark attack on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The incident occurred near Horseshoe Reef, about one kilometre off Rottnest Island, leaving behind his wife Shirene and their two young daughters — one approaching her third birthday and a four-month-old baby. A deeply emotional tribute released by his family has moved thousands to tears, highlighting the profound loss of a man described as fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and a one-of-a-kind gentleman.
Steven Mattaboni was spearfishing with a small group of friends in a friendly competition when the attack happened around 9:55–10am. Authorities believe a great white shark, estimated at four to five metres in length, bit him on both lower legs. His companions acted with extraordinary bravery, pulling him from the water despite the danger, rushing him by boat to Geordie Bay jetty, and performing CPR alongside paramedics and police for over 30 minutes. A rescue helicopter was also deployed, but sadly, Mattaboni could not be revived.
The Mattaboni family’s public statement, widely shared across Australian media, has resonated deeply with the public. In the heartfelt message, Shirene Mattaboni wrote: “Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as ‘Mattas’. 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.” She described him as “fiercely loyal, endlessly generous, and the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back.” The tribute thanks emergency services and asks for privacy as the family navigates their “incomprehensible loss.”
This moving memorial has shocked and saddened many because it paints a vivid picture of a young family suddenly shattered. The image of a toddler about to celebrate her birthday without her dad and a tiny infant who will grow up without memories of her father’s embrace has struck a particularly emotional chord. Friends and colleagues say Steven’s world revolved around his wife and daughters. Photos shared by the family show a joyful, hands-on father fully present in everyday moments — qualities that made his loss feel even more devastating.
Steven worked as a surveyor in Perth’s northern suburbs and was well-respected in both his professional and spearfishing circles. Known as an avid ocean lover who approached the sea with respect and caution, he was not considered reckless. The outing was meant to be a relaxed day among close friends, making the tragedy even harder to comprehend. Members of the spearfishing community have described him as one of the most genuine people you could meet, praising his positive energy and camaraderie.
Rottnest Island, a beloved holiday destination just 19 kilometres from Fremantle, is famous for its pristine beaches, quokkas, and clear waters. While shark encounters are rare, this incident — Western Australia’s first fatal shark attack in some time — has left locals and tourists shaken. Many visitors continued arriving the following day, though with noticeable nervousness and heightened awareness. Authorities have urged extra caution in the area and conducted searches for the shark, though no further immediate action significantly restricted access.
The bravery of Steven’s friends has also drawn widespread admiration. Despite the horror unfolding in front of them, they entered the water to rescue him and fought desperately to save his life on the journey back to shore. Their quick actions have been commended by police and emergency services.
Grief has spread far beyond the immediate family. Tributes have poured in from the spearfishing community, colleagues, neighbours, and strangers moved by the story. Many have offered practical support — meals, help with the children, and emotional solidarity — reflecting the high regard in which Steven was held. Shirene, a clinical nurse specialist, now faces the immense challenge of raising their two daughters alone, surrounded by a tight network of family and friends.
This tragedy has reignited broader conversations about ocean safety in Australia. While great whites are a protected species and play a vital role in the marine ecosystem, fatal attacks, though statistically uncommon, prompt reflection on personal responsibility, education, and safety measures for water users. Rottnest Island’s popularity as a family-friendly destination adds another layer of poignancy to the event.
For the Mattaboni family, the coming days, weeks, and years will be marked by unimaginable grief. The approaching third birthday of their eldest daughter and the everyday milestones their youngest will face without her father serve as constant, painful reminders of what has been taken away. Yet through the family’s statement, Steven’s legacy shines through clearly — that of a man defined by love, loyalty, and generosity.
As investigations continue and a report is prepared for the coroner, the focus remains on supporting Shirene and the two girls. The moving words from the family tribute continue to circulate widely, reminding everyone of the human cost behind such incidents. Steven “Mattas” Mattaboni may have been taken by the ocean he loved, but the memories of his devotion as a husband and father will endure in the hearts of those who knew him and the many who have been touched by his story.
The community’s outpouring of love and support offers a small measure of comfort amid the sorrow. In the words of his wife, the world has lost a truly special man — and that loss is being felt profoundly across Western Australia and beyond.
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