The Victorian athletics community is in mourning following the tragic death of Stawell Gift finalist Jemma Stapleton, who passed away while on an overseas family holiday. The former Knox junior athlete finished third at the 2025 edition of the famous Easter Monday event, marking a significant achievement in her burgeoning career.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Stapleton, who had initially transitioned into full-time work after completing school before pursuing a professional running career, demonstrated remarkable promise on the track. In the semi-finals of the 2025 Stawell Gift, she upset 2022 winner and Australian representative Carla Bull, establishing herself as a frontrunner. Commentator Tamsyn Manou praised her performance, noting, "Wonderful race by Jemma Stapleton. For Jemma the biggest battle was with her nerves before that one. She writes 'believe' on her hand after reading Sally Pearson's book — and she certainly did believe."
After her third-place finish in the final, Stapleton returned to Stawell in 2026 and advanced to another semi-final, demonstrating her consistency and dedication to the sport.
Tributes Pour In
On Thursday night, Stapleton's family and sporting clubs led an outpouring of tributes. The Victorian Athletic League remembered her as a person "whose presence, character and contribution left a lasting impact on those around her." Knox Little Athletics expressed being "deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Jemma Stapleton while overseas on a family holiday."
The organization highlighted her early achievements: "Jemma was a valued member of the Knox Little Athletics community, competing as a Little Athlete with the Rowville Club. From an early age, she showed great talent, determination, and a genuine love for athletics, achieving success at the Knox Championship level and later representing Knox at the state level. Many within our centre will remember Jemma and the Stapleton family with great fondness. On behalf of everyone at Knox Little Athletics, we extend our deepest condolences to Jemma's family, her partner Tyler, her friends, and all those who loved her during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Jemma."
Personal Tributes
Stapleton's partner Tyler shared a heartfelt message: "I can't put into words the hurt I am feeling. You are the single greatest thing to happen to me and I am so grateful for the love we shared. I love you with all my heart gweeb and I will never stop." Her brother Joel wrote: "Rest in peace, I love you so much. I promise I'll make you proud. You were the best sister and my best friend. I'll forever miss you. Rest easy."
Rowville Netball Club, where Stapleton was also a member, expressed their sorrow: "The loss of someone so young is simply unimaginable. There are no words that can truly ease the pain being felt by those who loved her. On behalf of everyone at Rowville Netball Club, we extend our deepest condolences to the Stapleton family during this incredibly difficult time. We hope they can find comfort in the love and support surrounding them and in the many memories shared with Jemma. Jemma will always be remembered as part of our Rowville Netball Club family, and our thoughts are with all who are grieving this tragic loss. Rest peacefully, Jemma."
Athletics coach Scott Rowsell paid tribute after hearing the "tragic and sudden" news: "Jemma was a beautiful, bright and warm personality who was always smiling. Her presence lifted every environment she stepped into, and it was a genuine pleasure to have known her. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her family as they navigate this devastating loss. R.I.P Angel."
