A 27-year-old Australian man from Melbourne has died after suffering a sudden medical episode while skiing with friends in Japan’s Hokkaido region earlier this week.
Michael “Micky” Hurst collapsed while skiing between Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort and Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort, where he was at the rear of a group. Reports indicate that snow conditions were reasonable at the time of the incident.
He was found unconscious by another group of skiers who immediately administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Despite being rushed to hospital, he was later pronounced dead.
Remembered for kindness and community spirit
Mr Hurst grew up in Melbourne’s bayside suburbs and was school captain of St Bede’s College in 2016. The school lowered its flags to half-mast in his honour.
An avid skier and surfer, he was actively involved in local lifesaving activities and was a familiar face at community open mic nights. Family members described him as compassionate, humble and deeply loyal to his loved ones.
“He went through life with a smile on his face and a great sense of humour,” his brother said in a tribute.
At the time of his death, Mr Hurst was working at a lodging facility at a ski resort in Niseko.
Third Australian death this ski season
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it is providing consular assistance to the family.
His death marks the third Australian fatality in Japan during the current ski season, amid record snowfall and a rise in snow-related incidents across the country. Japanese authorities have reported dozens of serious injuries and multiple fatalities linked to extreme winter conditions in recent weeks.
Officials have urged visitors to exercise caution as heavy snowfall continues across several regions.