Australian sprinter Jemma Stapleton has tragically died at the age of 25, just two weeks after her birthday, with tributes being sent by her family. Stapleton was on holiday with her family when she passed away.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by Stapleton's family to honour the sprinter, along with several messages from her loved ones.
“It is with great sadness that our beautiful friends the Stapleton family are facing the unmeasurable grief while on a family holiday with the passing of their beautiful daughter, sister and partner Jemma,” the post from Stapleton's family read.
“This go fund me has been set up (and approved by the family) to help ease a bit of pressure financially for the family so they can grieve together and spend as much time together as possible to get through and navigate this impossible loss.
“Jemma tragically lost her life in an accident while overseas with her family, any and all support to help the Stapleton family to bring her home is kindly appreciated!”
More than $100,000 has already been raised through the website, surpassing the goal set, with the sprinter’s family expressing their gratitude.
“On behalf of Stapleton and Wilson families, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming generosity and love that has poured in from so many of you,” a post from Stapleton's family read.
“Jemma would have been absolutely overwhelmed to see her community come together in this way — it is a true reflection of the beautiful person she was.
“The family are asking for privacy during this incredibly difficult time as they grieve and support one another. Contributions to this page are now closed. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.”
Stapleton's partner, Tyler Gray, took to Instagram to pay tribute. The post read: “I can’t put into words the hurt I am feeling. You are the single greatest thing to happen to me and I am so grateful for the love we shared. I love you with all my heart.”
Stapleton's brother, Joel, also paid tribute to his sister with an emotional message: “Rest in peace. I love you so much, I promise I’ll make you proud. You were the best sister and my best friend, I’ll forever miss you.”
Knox Little Athletics, an organisation Stapleton competed with as a junior, went on to issue a statement. “Jemma was part of the Knox Little Athletics community as a Little Athlete with the Rowville Club,” the statement read.
“From an early age, Jemma showed great talent, determination and love for athletics, achieving success at Knox Championship level and going on to represent Knox at State level.
“Jemma later continued her athletics journey in the Victorian Athletic League, where she achieved outstanding success, including winning the Women’s Ringwood Gift and competing with distinction at the Stawell Gift, finishing 3rd in 2025.
“Her achievements on the track were a reflection of her dedication, competitive spirit and the joy she brought to the sport.”
