Shark attack dad mauled to death in front of pals as devastated family pay tribute

Steven ‘Mattas’ Mattaboni was killed in a great white shark attack while diving near Rottnest Island, Western Australia, as a 16ft beast was spotted in the area at the time of the incident

The family of a shark attack victim who was savaged by a massive great white have paid tribute to their “one-of-a-kind gentleman.” Steven “Mattas” Mattaboni, 38, was set upon by the predator near a beloved Australian holiday destination on Saturday.

The father-of-two had travelled to Rottnest Island, close to Perth, Western Australia, when the shark viciously attacked him. After Steven’s death, his wife Shirene recalled him as a caring and devoted father to their two daughters, aged two and four months.

She said: “Our hearts are irrevocably broken by the loss of Steven, known affectionately to his mates as ‘Mattas’. 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 portrayed as having numerous talents and played competitive Australian Rules Football for Kingsley Football Club.

His club subsequently paid tribute to him and described Steven as a “much loved friend to many within our club community.” Their statement added: “Mattas was one of the most genuine people you could meet.

“He had a smile and presence that could light up a room, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and love are with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, especially his wife Shirene and their two young daughters.”

Sergeant Michael Wear, an officer leading the investigation at Rottnest Island, said: “His friends have actually witnessed the horrific event. The friends of the victim retrieved his body from the water, they gave him CPR on the way back in and came straight into the Geordie Bay jetty.”

Surf Life Saving WA reported that a 16ft great white shark had been sighted at approximately 10 am on Saturday around the time of the incident. An inquiry into the fatality has been opened.

Rottnest Island is a beloved tourist hotspot in Western Australia. Steven’s death marks the first deadly shark attack in the state since March last year.

There have been roughly 1,300 shark attacks documented in Australia since records began in 1791. Around 260 of these have proved fatal.