Tributes flow after shock death of Stawell Gift finalist Jemma Stapleton

The Australian athletics community is mourning the sudden death of Jemma Stapleton, a 25-year-old sprinter and finalist in the prestigious 2025 Stawell Gift. Stapleton is believed to have died while on holiday with her family abroad.

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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.

The cause of her death has not yet been revealed. Her partner, Tyler Gray, and brother, Joel, shared emotional tributes on social media. "I can't put into words the hurt I am feeling," Gray wrote on Instagram. "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."

Joel Stapleton also posted a heartfelt message: "I love you so so much. I promise I'll make you proud." The Victorian Athletic League acknowledged Stapleton's passing, stating she had left a "lasting impact on those around her." The league extended its deepest condolences to her family and friends.

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I love you so so much. I promise I'll make you proud.

To help the Stapleton family manage the financial burden of funeral arrangements during this difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been established and approved by the family. The campaign aims to "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."

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It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Jemma Stapleton. Jemma was a valued member of our community whose presence, character and contribution left a lasting impact on those around her.