A NSW police officer, Paul Matts, aged 37, tragically passed away during a family beach holiday on July 8. Originally from Orange in the NSW Central Tablelands, Matts suffered a sudden medical episode while having fun on the sand with his wife, Danni, and their four children. Despite immediate attempts to revive him, he could not be saved.
Matts is survived by his wife, his daughter Harlow, his son Xavier, and his step-children Archer and Jasmine. His family—comprising a three-year-old, a seven-year-old, and an eight-month-old—now faces the heartbreaking challenge of life without their devoted husband and father. Friends Jenna McAtamney and Sarah Wilkinson created a GoFundMe page to support Danni and the children during this difficult time, highlighting the overwhelming impact of this loss on the family.
With over 16 years of service as a sergeant with the NSW Police, Matts had previously lived in Coffs Harbour. The local Coffs Harbour Beaches Hockey Club paid their respects on social media, honouring him as a beloved club member and part of the hockey community. He was noted for his passion for horse racing, frequently spending time at the track and even training a horse owned by fellow club members.
McAtamney and Wilkinson expressed that Matts was a wonderful father who will be deeply missed. As Danni strives to remain strong for her children, she is faced with the daunting reality of her loss and the need for community support. Matts’ funeral is scheduled to take place in Coffs Harbour on Thursday, marking a somber farewell to a cherished individual.