A 27-year-old Australian man from Melbourne has tragically died while skiing in Japan, marking the second fatality involving an Australian in the country's ski resorts within days. The incident occurred in Niseko, Hokkaido, on Monday, as the region grapples with record-breaking snowfall that has led to numerous accidents nationwide.
Details of the Niseko Incident
According to a spokesperson for a local ski lodge who requested anonymity, the man collapsed and suffered a heart attack while skiing with a group of six others. He was reportedly working at a hotel in Niseko and was at the back of his group when he fell. Four other skiers witnessed the collapse and immediately began administering CPR in an attempt to save his life.
The spokesperson described the victim as "a talented, kind, gentle and wonderful man" and emphasised that there was no accident, collision, or fall involved in his death. The fire department retrieved him, and he was pronounced dead at a hospital. Local police have confirmed they will investigate the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Recent Ski Lift Tragedy in Otari
This death comes just three days after 22-year-old Queensland snowboarder Brooke Day lost her life in a separate incident. Day died when her backpack became caught in a ski lift at the Tsugaike resort in Otari, near Nagano. The lift operator has pledged full cooperation with investigations and committed to implementing concrete safety measures to prevent future occurrences.
Record Snowfall and Safety Warnings
Japan has been experiencing unprecedented snowfall in recent weeks, contributing to a spike in snow-related incidents. Since January 20th, the disaster management agency has reported 30 deaths and over 100 serious injuries nationwide. In Niseko, the Annupuri ski resort recorded 290cm of snow near the mountain's peak and 200cm at its base on Wednesday.
The daily Niseko avalanche bulletin highlighted that snowfall was "exceptionally good" on Monday but issued stern warnings to visitors. It advised skiers to avoid off-piste areas, noting that "the area outside the gates is not a ski resort." The heavy snow has also disrupted transport, delaying train services, closing highways, and briefly shutting down Hokkaido's main airport, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.
Official Responses and Condolences
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the man's family. A Dfat spokesperson expressed "deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time." The family of Brooke Day has also been remembered, with tributes describing her as their "beautiful girl."
These back-to-back tragedies underscore the risks associated with winter sports, particularly during extreme weather conditions. Authorities continue to urge caution and adherence to safety protocols as investigations into both incidents proceed.
