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Former Bondi Rescue lifeguard Matt Dee is being remembered as “one of a kind” as tributes flow from high-profile Aussies following his sudden death.
His tragic death was announced on social media on Wednesday, with friends and family flocking to the comments to pay tribute.
The TV star’s former colleague Trent Maxwell, also known as lifeguard Maxi, wrote, “Rest easy brother”.
The Bondi Lifeguards’ page commented, “Sad news” with a broken heart emoji, while former NRL player Josh Dugan wrote, “Rest in paradise brother… one of a kind”.
On his Instagram stories, Ryan Clark — known as lifeguard Whippet — paid tribute to his former colleague, who appeared on Bondi Rescue between 2008 and 2017.
“Big love Matty Dee,” he wrote.
“You had a wild wide and you will be missed by many.”
Dee’s cause of death has not been revealed publicly.
The lifeguard was an ambassador for Suicide Prevention Australia and founded FTW Revolution, a clothing brand which focused on mental health and suicide prevention.
Dee’s two siblings Rachel, 30, and Jonathon, 34, died in the same year; both lived with mental illness.
‘’What happened was not their fault,’‘ he told the Sydney Morning Herald in 2011.
‘’They did their best to manage their illnesses. It wasn’t their fault.
“They had a problem inside their heads. It’s something we don’t understand. How would we know what it’s like?’‘
A spokesperson for Suicide Prevention Australia told The Nightly that Dee’s advocacy made “a positive impact” on the country.
“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Matt Dee’s passing through the FTW Revolution Instagram page today,” they said.
“Matt reached many through his advocacy, making a positive impact in suicide prevention, a cause he cared for and championed.
“This is upsetting news, and we encourage anyone who requires support to please reach out for help – it is available and can make a difference.”
FTW raised about $500,000 for Suicide Prevention Australia.
The heartbreaking news was shared on Instagram on Wednesday alongside a picture of Dee drinking a beer in an FTW branded shirt.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our Matt Dee,” the post read.
“Matt touched the lives of many, he also did amazing work and he will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.”
The Instagram post announcing his death said that funeral details would be shared once arrangements had been finalised.“This page is being monitored, however, please understand that we may not be able to respond to every message,” the post continued.
“We truly appreciate every kind message, thought and tribute.”
Lifeline: 13 11 14.
Young people seeking support can phone beyondblue on 1300 22 4636 or go to headspace.org.au.
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