Former Bondi Rescue lifeguard, Matt Dee, has sadly died.
The death of the TV star and mental health advocate, who appeared on 29 episodes of Bondi Rescue from 2008 – 2016, was announced on social media earlier today.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our Matt Dee,” his mental health advocacy page, FTW revolution, announced.
“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. 🤍Funeral arrangements and details will be shared once they have been finalised.
This page is being monitored, however, please understand that we may not be able to respond to every message. We truly appreciate every kind message, thought and tribute.”
“Rest easy, brother,” Bondi Rescue co-star Trent Maxwell commented, with someone else commenting, “Rest easy, Matt. You were always my favourite lifeguard, and my admiration has only grown after learning and seeing what you stood for, and how you made it your mission to help others like me know we’re not alone. You’ll be deeply missed, and I hope you’re at peace.”
Ryan Clark, best known as Whippet on the show, left love hearts on another post. He then shared his own Instagram Story, saying “Big love, Matty Dee. You had a wild ride, and will be missed by many.”
Another friend chimed in, adding, “RIP my mate, Matt Dee. We had so much fun surfing and running amuck together growing up. You definitely lived life to the fullest, see you in the next life, legend.”
Bondi Rescue star’s fight for mental health support
When he wasn’t rescuing swimmers on Bondi Rescue, Matt was a passionate advocate for mental health.
He was the co-founder of FTW and a Suicide Prevention ambassador, and had previously shared his own heartbreaking story about how suicide had affected his own family, after losing both his brother and sister to mental health illnesses.
Matt’s Instagram page encouraged anyone impacted by the news to reach out to the following support lines:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Emergency: 000
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