The Victorian athletics community is in mourning after former Stawell Gift finalist Jemma Stapleton died on an overseas family holiday. She had upset 2022 winner and Australian representative Carla Bull as a frontrunner in the semi-finals.
Tributes are flowing for ‘a beautiful, bright and warm’ rising star ‘who was always smiling’. The Victorian athletics community is in mourning after former Stawell Gift finalist Jemma Stapleton died on an overseas family holiday .
Stapleton, pushing for a professional running career having initially moved into full-time work after school, had upset 2022 winner and Australian representative Carla Bull as a frontrunner in the semi-finals.
“Wonderful race by Jemma Stapleton,” Tamsyn Manou said in commentary on the day. “For Jemma the biggest battle was with her nerves before that one. She writes ‘believe’ on her hand after reading Sally Pearson’s book — and she certainly did believe. ” After her third-place result in the final Stapleton returned to Stawell in 2026 and made it to another semi-final.
The Victorian Athletic League remembered Stapleton as a rising star “whose presence, character and contribution left a lasting impact on those around her”. Knox Little Athletics said it was “deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Jemma Stapleton while overseas on a family holiday”. Add 7NEWS as your preferred news source on Google “Jemma was a valued member of the Knox Little Athletics community, competing as a Little Athlete with the Rowville Club,” the organisation said.
“From an early age, she showed great talent, determination, and a genuine love for athletics, achieving success at the Knox Championship level and later representing Knox at the state level. “On behalf of everyone at Knox Little Athletics, we extend our deepest condolences to Jemma’s family, her partner Tyler, her friends, and all those who loved her during this incredibly difficult time. Stapleton’s partner Tyler said: “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 gweeb and I will never stop. ” Her brother Joel wrote: “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. Rest easy. ”Credit: Instagram“There are no words that can truly ease the pain being felt by those who loved her,” the club said.
“On behalf of everyone at Rowville Netball Club, we extend our deepest condolences to the Stapleton family during this incredibly difficult time. “We hope they can find comfort in the love and support surrounding them and in the many memories shared with Jemma. “Jemma will always be remembered as part of our Rowville Netball Club family, and our thoughts are with all who are grieving this tragic loss.
Athletics coach Scott Rowsell paid tribute after hearing the “tragic and sudden” news.
“Her presence lifted every environment she stepped into, and it was a genuine pleasure to have known her. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her family as they navigate this devastating loss. R.I. P Angel. ”
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