Key Takeaways
- Steven Mattaboni, a 38‑year‑old spearfisher and father of two, died after being bitten by a great white shark off Horseshoe Reef, Rottnest Island, on Saturday morning.
- He was participating in a casual spearfishing competition with friends when the attack occurred while he was on the surface about 20 metres from a friend’s boat.
- Immediate CPR was administered by his companions, and emergency services arrived swiftly, but his injuries proved fatal.
- Mattaboni was widely known for his devotion to his family, his passion for spearfishing and free diving, and his active role in local fishing advocacy groups such as Recfishwest and Bluewater Freedivers of WA.
- The incident has prompted a police report for the coroner, notification of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and an outpouring of community support coupled with a request for privacy from his family.
Incident Overview: Time, Location, and Circumstances of the Shark Bite
On Saturday morning just before 10 a.m., Steven Mattaboni, 38, was diving at Horseshoe Reef, situated roughly one kilometre offshore from the north‑west beach of Rottnest Island. He was taking part in an informal spearfishing competition among a small group of friends when a large shark struck him on the lower legs while he was on the surface, approximately 20 metres away from one of the friends’ boats. Witnesses described the attack as sudden and severe, with the shark inflicting “quite horrific” injuries according to Rottnest Island officer‑in‑charge Michael Wear. The reef, known locally as a popular snorkelling and fishing spot, is frequented by pelagic fish and, consequently, by sharks, which likely contributed to the encounter.
Immediate Response: Friends’ Actions, CPR, and Emergency Services
Mattaboni’s companions acted quickly, pulling him from the water and initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as they headed toward the Geordie Bay jetty. While en route, they contacted emergency services, who met the group at the jetty and assumed control of his care. Despite the rapid intervention and the efforts of first responders, the trauma sustained from the shark bite was too severe, and Mattaboni could not be resuscitated. The swift coordination between friends and professional rescuers underscored the tight‑knit nature of the local spearfishing community and their readiness to assist in emergencies.
Victim Profile: Family Life and Personal Qualities
Steven Mattaboni was a devoted husband to Shirene and a loving father to two young daughters—one turning three the following month and a four‑month‑old baby born in January. Shirene’s heartfelt social‑media tribute described him as “the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back,” highlighting his loyalty, generosity, and deep affection for his family. Friends and acquaintances repeatedly noted his warm demeanor, his readiness to help others, and the way he balanced his passion for the ocean with his responsibilities at home. His loss left a profound void not only for his immediate family but also for the wider circle of those who knew him as “Mattas.”
Spearfishing & Diving Background: Passion and Participation
An avid spearfisher and free diver, Mattaboni spent much of his time in the water, pursuing both recreational and competitive spearfishing activities. He regularly joined his friends for outings, often sharing photos and stories of their adventures on social media, which illustrated his enthusiasm and skill. Beyond casual diving, he took part in organised spearfishing competitions, where his expertise and sportsmanship earned him respect among peers. His commitment to the sport extended to continual skill development, including training in breath‑hold techniques and safety practices that are essential for free diving in Western Australia’s coastal waters.
Community and Organizational Contributions: Advocacy and Leadership
Mattaboni’s influence reached beyond personal enjoyment; he was an active member of Recfishwest, the peak body representing recreational fishers in Western Australia. Within this organisation, he served on the Spearfishing Equity Working Group, which aimed to “remove impediments to ensure equitable management arrangements for spearfishers in areas such as marine parks.” His work focused on promoting fair access, sustainable practices, and dialogue between fishers, regulators, and conservationists. Additionally, he held the position of secretary for Bluewater Freedivers of WA, a local club that fosters safe free‑diving practices, organises training sessions, and advocates for the sport’s recognition. Through these roles, Mattaboni helped shape policies and community standards that benefit both spearfishers and the marine environment.
Shark Context and Environmental Factors: Reef Characteristics and Predator Presence
Horseshoe Reef is well known among locals for its abundant pelagic fish populations, which attract both recreational anglers and predators such as sharks. Authorities confirmed that a five‑metre great white shark had been recorded in the vicinity around the same time Mattaboni was bitten, suggesting that the animal may have been patrolling the area in search of prey. The confluence of rich fish life, clear water, and the reef’s topography creates an environment where shark encounters, while statistically rare, are not unexpected. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with ocean activities, even for experienced and cautious participants like Mattaboni.
Aftermath, Investigations, and Community Response
Western Australia Police have been tasked with preparing a report for the coroner to determine the exact cause and circumstances of Mattaboni’s death. Simultaneously, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has been notified of the incident and is liaising with local authorities to gather further information, which may include data on shark behaviour, water conditions, and any relevant safety advisories. In the wake of the tragedy, Shirene expressed gratitude toward emergency responders and first‑responder teams for their swift efforts, while also requesting privacy for her family as they navigate their grief. The spearfishing community, friends, and broader public have responded with messages of support, condolences, and shared memories, underscoring the deep impact Mattaboni had on those around him.