Fisherman Devoured by 16ft Shark Near Rottnest Island

A devastating shark attack claimed the life of Steven "Mattas" Mattaboni, 38, near Australia's Rottnest Island. The avid fisherman, a father of two young daughters, was attacked by a large shark approximately 80 meters offshore. His friends, who were present during the ordeal, retrieved him from the water and administered CPR as they rushed to the Geordie Bay jetty.

Officials reported the shark to be 16ft long, though earlier reports suggested 13ft. Steven was also recognized for his athletic achievements as a competitive Australian Rules Football player. His club expressed deep sorrow, remembering him as a genuine person with a radiant presence. Authorities have issued advisories for increased caution in the Horseshoe Reef and Marjorie Bay areas, with patrols monitoring the waters.

This tragic event underscores a concerning trend of shark encounters along the Australian coast this year. Several other attacks have occurred recently, including a series near Sydney in January that resulted in a fatality. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is urging the public to report any shark sightings to authorities.