Heartwarming detail in Matt Dee’s public celebration of life event after Bondi Rescue lifeguard’s death

Former Bondi Rescue lifeguard Matt Dee’s ashes will be spread nearby the beach that put him in the spotlight as the public is invited to celebrate his life.

The mental health activist’s tragic death was announced in a social media post on Wednesday.

His cause of death has not been publicly revealed.

The sad news was shared by his organisation’s Instagram page, accompanied by an image of Dee holding a beer, looking up at the sky.

That same image was used on Thursday night to announce the details of his celebration of life event, which will be held on September 12.

FTW Revolution’s Instagram page said that the public event would be at Bronte Beach in Sydney, which is located just two kilometres from the beach which put him in the spotlight, Bondi.

At the celebration of life, there will be a paddle out — an act where surfers paddle beyond the waves and form a circle to honour the life of someone who died — and his ashes will be spread.

Back on land, there will be food, drinks, and music.

Organisers said they hoped attendees would share “memories of our great mate”.

The post was also shared by North Maroubr Surf Riders, who wrote that the event would “send off a true legend”.

“A man that had time for everyone, a larrikin, a brother to all and a leader of men,” it read.

“His time with us has come to an end but we owe it to him to send him off in style.

“We are calling on everyone to get down to Bronte next Saturday to spread his ashes and have a paddle out in his honour.

“We will have a beer and share some stories afterwards.”

Dee first appeared on Bondi Rescue in 2008 and retired as a lifeguard in 2017 to focus on mental health advocacy platform FTW Revolution, which he founded to honour his brother and sister who both lost their battles to mental health issues in 2009.

He was also an ambassador for Suicide Prevention Australia.

A spokesperson for the organisation told The Nightly that Dee’s advocacy made “a positive impact” on the country.

“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Matt Dee’s passing through the FTW Revolution Instagram page today,” they said.

“Matt reached many through his advocacy, making a positive impact in suicide prevention, a cause he cared for and championed.

“This is upsetting news, and we encourage anyone who requires support to please reach out for help - it is available and can make a difference.”

In the post announcing his death, FTW Revolution wrote that Dee “touched the lives of many” through his “amazing work”.

Tributes from former lifeguard colleagues and high-profile Australians have flowed since the news broke.

Trent Maxwell, better known as Maxi, and Daniel McLaughlin, known as Beardy on the show, both shared posts celebrating their friend.

“Rest easy Mate, You were a true character who lived life on your own terms,” wrote Beardy.

“So many good times, plenty of laughs and some incredible stories along the way.

“I hoped you realised how many people you helped with your mental health advocacy, not to mention all the lives you save on the beach.

“There was never a dull moment working alongside you.”

Lifeline: 13 11 14. Young people seeking support can phone beyondblue on 1300 22 4636 or go to headspace.org.au.