The 38-year-old died on Saturday after he was attacked by what’s believed to be a white shark near Horseshoe Reef, off the island near Perth.
Mattaboni, from Perth, had been in the water with friends when the shark attacked about 20 metres from their boat.
His mates pulled him on board and rushed him to the nearest jetty at Geordie Bay as paramedics prepared to respond.
Despite CPR from his friends and emergency crews, he could not be saved.
“His friends have actually witnessed the horrific event,” Sergeant Michael Wear said on Saturday.
“The victim was on the surface at the time, about 20 metres away from the vessel.”
“Certainly quite horrific scenes for all involved, and all emergency services that were there did a fantastic job.”
Authorities said Mattaboni suffered serious injuries to both lower legs.
Surf Life Saving WA later confirmed a five-metre white shark was seen about 80 metres offshore on Sunday morning, as patrols continued around the island.
Rottnest Island beaches have remained open following the attack, with shark experts maintaining that the overall risk to swimmers and surfers remains low.
Dr Daryl McPhee told Today the incident occurred a considerable distance offshore.
“I’d be more concerned if the bite occurred right on the beach, but its a long way off shore,” he said.
The island, a popular tourist destination off Perth known for its beaches and quokka population, can be reached by ferry from the mainland.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has been notified and is working with local authorities following the fatal attack.
Australia recorded the highest number of fatal shark attacks in the world last year, according to figures released by the International Shark Attack File in February.
Five people died in shark attacks in Australian waters in 2025, with great white sharks linked to several of the incidents.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
By
