He was pulled unconscious from the water by other surfers, and despite attempts to revive him, he passed away.

Reports suggest that Mr Richell was surfing with a friend at Bronte beach but was carried north towards Tamarama. Currents pushed him into an area called The Twins and a jetski was racing to rescue him, but he was thrown against the rocks before help arrived.

His wife, writer Hannah Richell, has spoken of the family’s grief.

In a brief statement, she wrote:  “Words cannot express our deep sorrow at losing Matt. He was a beautiful spirit – the very best father, husband, son and brother. We will miss him dreadfully but remember him always with joy in our hearts.”

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