A devoted Australian father was tragically killed by a massive great white shark while enjoying a day out spearfishing with close friends at one of Western Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. The horrifying attack has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community and reignited fears about ocean safety in shark-prone waters.

Steven “Mattas” Mattaboni, 38, was attacked around 10am on Saturday near Rottnest Island, just off the coast of Perth. The experienced fisherman and spearfisherman was in the water when the 16ft predator struck, latching onto his lower leg in a sudden and ferocious assault witnessed by his horrified companions.

Friends immediately sprang into action, pulling Steven from the water onto their boat and racing back to the Geordie Bay jetty while performing CPR. Paramedics and a rescue helicopter were waiting at the scene, but despite all efforts, he could not be revived. Police and emergency services confirmed the dad-of-two had died from his injuries.

In a deeply moving tribute, Steven’s wife Shirlene described her husband as a “one-of-a-kind gentleman” whose loss has left their family shattered. The couple’s two young daughters — aged two and just four months — have been robbed of their father far too soon.

“Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as ‘Mattas’,” Shirlene wrote. “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. The world has lost a truly one-of-a-kind gentleman, and our daughters have lost an incredible father far too soon.”

Steven was also remembered fondly by his Australian Rules Football club, Kingsley Football Club, where he played competitively. Club officials called him “one of the most genuine people you could meet” and noted that “he had a smile and presence that could light up a room.” Their thoughts are with Shirlene and the two little girls during this unimaginable time.

The attack occurred at a popular tourist spot. Rottnest Island is a protected nature reserve known for its stunning beaches, wildlife, and relaxed holiday vibe. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and boating in its clear waters.

Sergeant Michael Wear, the officer in charge at Rottnest Island, detailed the frantic response. Steven’s experienced fisherman friends retrieved his body from the water, administered CPR on the boat, and headed straight for help. A police air wing helicopter even dropped an officer on shore to assist. “It was an all-agencies effort,” Wear said, highlighting the coordinated attempt to save him.

Authorities received reports of a shark around 13-16ft long. Surf Life Saving WA confirmed a 16ft white shark sighting about 80 metres offshore around the same time. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has urged extra caution around Horseshoe Reef and Marjorie Bay, with a patrol vessel now monitoring the area. Beachgoers are asked to report any further sightings immediately.

This tragedy marks Western Australia’s first fatal shark attack since March 2025 and comes amid a series of concerning incidents along Australia’s coast. Earlier this year, four people were bitten in a 48-hour period near Sydney, including 12-year-old Nico Antic, who sadly died from his injuries.

Experts note that great white sharks are apex predators naturally drawn to waters rich in seals, fish, and other marine life around Rottnest Island. While attacks remain statistically rare, they are often fatal due to the sharks’ size and power. Steven’s love for the ocean — the very place where he felt most at home — makes this loss especially poignant.

Friends who witnessed the event are undoubtedly traumatised. Pictures from the scene show them comforting each other on the deck of a police boat, their faces etched with grief. The group had set out for what should have been a relaxing day on the boat, full of camaraderie and the thrill of the catch. Instead, it ended in nightmare.

The broader community has rallied in support. Tributes continue to pour in online and at local sports clubs. Many are reflecting on the risks of ocean activities, particularly spearfishing, which involves being in the water with speared fish that can attract sharks.

Shark safety measures in Australia include drone surveillance, shark spotters, and education campaigns, but incidents like this remind everyone that the ocean is a wild environment where nature commands respect. DPIRD and Surf Life Saving WA continue to monitor and advise the public.

For Shirlene and her daughters, the coming weeks and months will be filled with unimaginable pain. Steven was not just a fisherman — he was a doting dad, loyal friend, and larger-than-life personality whose absence will be felt deeply. His passion for the sea defined him, and in many ways, it was part of his legacy.

Rottnest Island authorities have not closed the area entirely but are emphasising heightened vigilance. Visitors are encouraged to swim at patrolled beaches, avoid swimming alone, and heed all warnings. The island’s natural beauty remains, but a shadow now hangs over its waters.

This heartbreaking story underscores the thin line between adventure and tragedy in Australia’s coastal paradise. Families across the country are hugging their loved ones tighter today, while ocean enthusiasts debate how to balance passion with safety.

As investigations continue and more details emerge, one thing is certain: Steven “Mattas” Mattaboni lived life on his own terms, connected to the ocean he loved. His memory will endure through his family, friends, and everyone who knew the generous, smiling gentleman with a heart as big as the sea.

May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength in the outpouring of support from a community united in sorrow.