Loving father Paul Leslie Matts, 37, dies suddenly while playing with his children on holiday
Police officer Paul Leslie Matts, 37, suffered a fatal medical episode on July 8 while playing with his children on the beach.
He is survived by his wife, Danni, their children Harlow and eight-month-old Xavier, as well as his stepchildren Archer and Jasmine.
A sergeant with the NSW Police, Mr Matts had served the force for more than 16 years and was previously stationed in Coffs Harbour.
Close family friends Jenna McAtamney and Sarah Wilkinson described the loss as devastating.
They have launched a GoFundMe page to support his wife and children, who are now 'facing life without their loving dad and stepdad.'
'This loss has left the family devastated and in need of support as they begin to navigate this new reality,' the fundraising page reads.
Mr Matts is also mourned by his parents, David and Julie, and his sisters Catherine and Rebecca.
During his career, Mr Matts also served as the local officer in the small town of Burren Junction.
In 2020, local MP Roy Butler publicly thanked him in parliament for organising a community fun day.
'To repay Burren for being so welcoming, Paul organised a family fun day for the town,' Butler said.
'He moved heaven and earth to put on an afternoon and evening of entertainment – from slip 'n' slides, a visit from Santa, and a raffle for a family holiday. The purpose of the event was twofold: to say thank you and to help people take their minds off the drought. On behalf of Burren Junction, thank you.'
McAtamney and Wilkinson said Mr Matts was a 'great father' who 'will be very missed by his children.'
They added that Danni is doing everything she can to stay strong for the family but cannot do it alone as she adjusts to the loss and the financial challenges it brings.
Friends and loved ones have expressed their grief on social media.
'A beautiful soul gone way too soon. RIP buddy,' one wrote.
'So sorry for your loss David and Julie, thinking of you both,' another shared.
'Thinking of you Julie, David and family, sending my deepest condolences,' a third commented.
'So very sad to see someone so young pass away. RIP,' another added.
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