The Australian athletics world has been left in mourning after the death of Stawell Gift finalist Jemma Stapleton.
Stapleton, 25, is believed to have died while overseas on a family holiday.
The cause of death has not been revealed.
A GoFundMe has been set up for the Stapleton family.
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“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 reads.
“This GoFundMe 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.”
Stapleton’s partner, Tyler Gray, and brother, Joel, posted heartbreaking tributes on their Instagram pages.
“I can’t put into words the hurt I am feeling,” Gray wrote.
“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.”
“I love you so so much,” Joel wrote.
“I promise I’ll make you proud.”
The Victorian Athletic League said Stapleton had left a lasting impact on the people around her.
“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Jemma Stapleton,” they wrote.
“Jemma was a valued member of our community whose presence, character and contribution left a lasting impact on those around her.
“On behalf of everyone at the Victorian Athletic League, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.”
