The Australian community is mourning the loss of a young Melburnian following a tragic skiing incident in Japan. Michael 'Micky' Hurst, believed to be in his twenties, has been identified as the man who died while skiing in Hokkaido earlier this week.
Details of the Hokkaido Skiing Incident
The fatal accident occurred on Monday afternoon when Hurst was skiing off-course between the Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort and the Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort. He was part of a group of seven skiers when he disappeared from the rear of the party around 3pm local time.
Rescue Attempt and Medical Response
According to local media reports, four other skiers later found Hurst unconscious at the scene. They immediately attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation in an effort to save his life. Early reports from the region suggested the young man may have been buried in an avalanche, though this has not been officially confirmed by authorities.
Emergency services rushed Hurst to a nearby hospital, where medical staff pronounced him dead. The exact cause of death remains under investigation by Japanese authorities.
Remembering Michael 'Micky' Hurst
Hurst's LinkedIn profile reveals he had been on a career break in Niseko, Hokkaido since December last year. During his time in Japan, he worked at a lodging facility at a ski resort, embracing the mountain lifestyle he clearly loved.
The former St Bede's College student has been remembered fondly by those who knew him. A family friend described Hurst as "the healthiest, good-looking but most humble" young man, highlighting his positive character.
"No mother wants to have to be the one to tell you the news your childhood best friend passed away having a heart attack on the slopes of Japan," the friend wrote in a heartfelt tribute. She noted that Hurst was her eldest son's best friend, emphasizing the deep personal connections he maintained.
"Knowing he died doing the sport he loved the most makes us happy knowing you left this world in full action," the tribute continued. "Biggest love to his family.. it's a sad day today. Taken way too soon."
Australian Government Response
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed it is providing consular assistance to Hurst's family during this difficult time. A DFAT spokesperson stated: "The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian who died in Japan. We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time."
The spokesperson added: "Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment," respecting the family's need for privacy as they grieve their devastating loss.
Second Australian Ski Death in Japan This Season
Tragically, Hurst represents the second Australian to die in Japan during the current ski season. Just one day before his accident, 22-year-old Sunshine Coast woman Brooke Day was killed when her backpack became lodged in a ski lift at Tsugaike Mountain Resort in Nagano Prefecture, west of Tokyo.
These consecutive tragedies have cast a shadow over what should be an enjoyable winter sports season for Australians visiting Japan's renowned ski fields. Both incidents serve as sobering reminders of the inherent risks associated with mountain activities, even at established resorts.
The Australian skiing community is now reflecting on safety measures and precautions while extending sympathy to both families affected by these separate but equally devastating incidents in Japan.
