A public memorial has been announced for much-loved Bondi Rescue star Matt Dee, following his tragic death last week.
Friends, former colleagues and members of Sydney’s tight-knit surfing community are preparing to gather to say goodbye to the beloved lifeguard and reality TV star.
Dee’s ashes will be spread at Bronte Beach this Saturday, September 12, during a special celebration of life held in his honor.
The former lifeguard’s death sent shockwaves through the beach community last week, leading to an outpouring of grief.
Now those who knew and loved Dee will have the opportunity to gather on one of his beloved beaches in Sydney to celebrate his life.
The memorial will begin at noon, with mourners encouraged to paddle into the water as Dee’s ashes are spread.
A public memorial has been announced for much-loved Bondi Rescue star Matt Dee, following his tragic death last week
Afterwards, friends and family gather for food, drinks, music and a chance to share their favorite memories of Dee.
For those who knew Dee, it will be a chance not only to mourn his loss, but also to celebrate the laughs, friendships and memories he leaves behind.
The North Maroubra Surf Riders announced the commemoration online.
“This Saturday we’re sending out a true legend,” the group wrote.
‘A man who had time for everyone, a larrikin, a brother for everyone and a leader of people.
“His time with us has come to an end, but we owe it to him to send him off in style.”
Dee’s death was announced on his Instagram account on Wednesday.
“Matt touched the lives of many,” the heartbreaking post read.
Friends, former colleagues and members of Sydney’s tight-knit surfing community prepare to gather to say goodbye to beloved lifeguard and reality TV star
Dee’s ashes will be spread at Bronte Beach this Saturday, September 12, during a special celebration of life held in his honor.
“He also did a fantastic job, and he will be greatly missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.”
The devastating news has since led to an emotional outpouring of tributes from Dee’s friends and former Bondi Rescue colleagues, remembering the man behind the lifeguard tower.
The popular lifeguard was a familiar face on Bondi Rescue for almost a decade, appearing on the show from 2008 to 2017.
Away from the cameras, Dee has spent much of his time helping others, co-founding the non-profit organization FTW Revolution and working to raise awareness of mental health.
He was also a supporter of Suicide Prevention Australia.
The reality TV personality became a passionate ambassador for mental health after losing both his brother and sister within a year due to their struggles with mental health.
His younger sister, Rachel Bridger Dee, died in December 2009 at the age of 30, after a decade-long battle with schizophrenia.
His older brother Jonathan had bipolar disorder and died several months earlier.
The Bondi Rescue star and his siblings grew up in a close-knit family and were raised by their single mother in Melbourne.
If you or someone you know needs immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via lifeline.org.au. In case of emergency you can call 000.
