A young Australian woman has tragically lost her life in a harrowing accident at a popular ski resort in Japan. Ella Day Brooke, aged 22, was snowboarding when she became entangled in a chairlift at the Tsugaike Mountain Resort in Otari, located within the Nagano Prefecture. The incident occurred on Friday, resulting in fatal injuries that have sent shockwaves through the international skiing community.
Details of the Fatal Incident
According to Tsugaike Mountain Resort chief executive Tsuneo Kubo, the lift buckle became tangled with Ms Brooke's backpack as she attempted to disembark from the chairlift. This caused her to be dragged along as the lift continued to move in the opposite direction, leading to a severe and distressing situation.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
A resort worker promptly pressed an emergency button, bringing the chairlift to an immediate stop. However, Ms Brooke is understood to have suffered cardiac arrest before she could be rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, she was confirmed dead on Sunday, leaving her family and friends in mourning.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Australia has confirmed that the Brooke family is receiving consular assistance during this difficult time. A spokeswoman expressed deep condolences, stating, 'We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time.' She added that due to privacy obligations, no further comment could be provided.
Resort and Police Investigations
Mr Kubo extended his sympathies to the bereaved family and assured full cooperation with ongoing investigations. Local police are currently examining the circumstances surrounding the accident, while the resort has initiated a comprehensive safety review to prevent future tragedies.
Chairlift Specifications and Safety Concerns
The fixed-grip chairlift involved in the incident is capable of transporting up to 1,000 people per hour and operates at a speed of 2.5 metres per second. This accident highlights potential safety issues in ski resort infrastructure, prompting calls for enhanced safety protocols.
Context of Recent Ski Resort Incidents in Japan
This tragic event follows another recent fatality at a Japanese ski resort, where a five-year-old boy died after his arm became trapped in a magic carpet ski lift in northern Japan. These incidents raise serious questions about lift safety standards and maintenance practices across the country's winter sports facilities.
Growing Popularity of Japan Among Australian Travellers
Japan has rapidly become a favoured destination for Australian tourists, with visitor numbers soaring in recent years. In 2025, over one million Australians travelled to Japan, marking a 15 per cent increase compared to 2024. This surge in tourism underscores the importance of ensuring safe and reliable experiences for international visitors.
As investigations continue, the skiing community and authorities are urged to prioritise safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future. The loss of Ella Day Brooke serves as a poignant reminder of the risks associated with winter sports and the critical need for vigilant safety practices.
