An anonymous $100,000 donation made just an hour ago has supercharged support for the shattered family of Rottnest shark attack victim Steven Mattaboni, with more than $317,660 now raised towards the $500,000 target.
The massive contribution came as dozens of others dug deep, with several donors chipping in between $1000 and $3000, while another person donated a generous $10,000 to help support the young family left behind.
The flood of donations has poured in for Mr Mattaboni's wife Shirene and the couple's two young daughters after the 38-year-old father was killed in a horror shark attack off Rottnest Island on Saturday.
Mr Mattaboni was spearfishing with friends near Horseshoe Reef, about 1km north-west of Rottnest, when he was attacked in the water. His mates rushed him to Geordie Bay jetty and desperately performed CPR before paramedics took over but he could not be saved.
The tragedy has sparked an overwhelming outpouring of grief, with hundreds rallying around the devastated family. An online fundraiser launched by a friend of Mrs Mattaboni has surged in just days as the community continues to rally behind them.
Community Rallies for Devastated Family
“Steven was truly one of a kind — a loving husband, devoted father, and an incredibly kind and genuine man who brought warmth and happiness to those around him,” the fundraising page says. “Above all else, he absolutely adored his girls and was the most amazing dad. No family should ever have to face such an unimaginable tragedy, especially so suddenly.”
As Mrs Mattaboni faces life without her soulmate while caring for their young daughters, friends say the fundraiser will help provide practical support in the difficult months and years ahead.
Mr Mattaboni was remembered as an experienced fisherman and passionate spearfisherman who “lived and breathed the ocean”. He worked as a surveyor and had also founded furniture and homewares business Casana Studio with his wife, building it from their garage. The couple had recently celebrated 10 years together before welcoming their second daughter in January.
Tributes from Football Club and Wife
Kingsley Football Club, where Mr Mattaboni was a premiership player, urged others to continue supporting the family. “Mattas meant so much to so many within our community,” the club said. “Any contribution, no matter how big or small, will go directly towards supporting his young family in the months and years ahead.”
In a heartbreaking tribute, Mrs Mattaboni said: “Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as Mattas. 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.”
