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.
“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,” a fundraising page for the family said.
“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.”
The fundraiser closed after raising more than $100,000 in less than 24 hours.
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Stapleton’s partner, Tyler Gray, and brother, Joel, posted tributes on their Instagram pages.
“I can’t put into words the hurt I am feeling,” Mr 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.”
Jemma Stapleton competed at Knox Little Athletics as a junior. (Supplied: Knox Little Athletics)
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.”
‘Unimaginable’ to lose someone so young
Knox Little Athletics, where Stapleton competed as a junior, said she had showed “great talent, determination and love for athletics”.
“Her achievements on the track were a reflection of her dedication, competitive spirit and the joy she brought to the sport,” the organisation said in a statement.
“Many within our centre will remember Jemma and the Stapleton family with great fondness.
“Our heartfelt thoughts, love and condolences are with Jemma’s family, her partner Tyler, and all those who knew and loved her, as they face the unimaginable grief of losing a cherished daughter, sister, partner and friend.”
The Rowville Netball club said they hoped Stapleton’s family found comfort in the love and support surrounding them.
“The loss of someone so young is simply unimaginable, and there are no words that can truly ease the pain being felt by those who loved her,” they said.
