Donations have come rushing in to support the family of the man killed by a shark off Rottnest Island on Saturday.
Steven Mattaboni, 38, was spearfishing with friends when he was attacked in the water near Horseshoe Reef, around 1km north-west of Rottnest Island.
The father-of-two was quickly rushed to the Geordie Bay jetty by his friends who administered CPR, but was unable to be saved by paramedics.
Mr Mattaboni has been remembered by his wife, friends, and his football club as an “incredible” dad and “fiercely loyal” man.
An online fundraiser has since been launched to support his family following his death by a friend of Mr Mattaboni’s wife Shirene.
“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 reads.
“Above all else, he absolutely adored his three girls and was the most amazing dad ❤️.
“No family should ever have to face such an unimaginable tragedy, especially so suddenly.
“As Shirene begins to navigate life without her soulmate while caring for their young daughters, we would love to rally around her with love, support, and practical help during this incredibly difficult time.”
By late Monday afternoon, more than $65,000 had been raised from nearly 600 donations.
Kingsley Football Club, where Mr Mattaboni was a premiership player, encouraged others to assist.
“Mattas meant so much to so many within our community, and we know a number of people have been asking how they can help,” the post read.
“Any contribution, no matter how big or small, will go directly towards supporting his young family in the months and years ahead.
“Thank you to everyone who has already reached out and offered support to the Mattaboni family.”
Mr Mattaboni was an experienced fisherman and spear fisher, the activity he was doing when the attack occurred.
He worked as a surveyor and had also founded a furniture and homewares business Casana Studio with his wife from their garage.
In December, the couple celebrated 10 years together, followed by the birth of their second girl in January.
Ms Mattaboni paid tribute to her late-husband.
“Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as ‘Mattas’,” she said.
“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.”
