GOLD COAST, 03 March 2026 – The Gold Coast community is in mourning following the tragic death of eight-year-old schoolgirl Chloe Jeffries, who was killed in a holiday accident at a Japanese ski resort last week.
Chloe, a student at Currumbin State School, was holidaying with her family when the incident occurred on 28 February 2026. Reports indicate the young girl was involved in a fatal snowmobile accident near Hakuba Village, a popular destination for international skiers in the Japanese Alps.
Details of the Incident
Local Japanese police and emergency services were called to the scene on Friday, but despite efforts to assist, the eight-year-old succumbed to her injuries. While the exact circumstances of the snowmobile accident remain under investigation by local authorities, the tragedy has sent shockwaves through both the local Japanese community and her home on the Gold Coast.
Chloe is the fourth Australian to have died on Japanese ski slopes in the past seven weeks, following a series of incidents involving Victorian and other interstate travellers during the peak winter season.
Community Tributes
Friends and family have described Chloe as a bright and well-loved member of the Currumbin State School community. Support services are expected to be made available for students and staff as they return to school following the news of the tragedy.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has confirmed it is providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian child who died in Japan. Due to privacy obligations, further specific details regarding the family’s arrangements have not been released.
Summary of Events
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Chloe Jeffries |
| Age | 8 |
| Hometown | Gold Coast, Queensland |
| School | Currumbin State School |
| Date of Incident | 28 February 2026 |
| Location | Near Hakuba Village, Japan |
| Cause | Snowmobile accident |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the accident occur?
The accident took place near Hakuba Village, a major skiing and snowboarding hub located in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan.
What was the cause of the accident?
According to local police reports, Chloe was involved in a snowmobile accident. The specific details regarding how the vehicle was being operated are still being reviewed by Japanese authorities.
How many Australians have died in Japan this ski season?
Chloe Jeffries is the fourth Australian to lose their life on Japanese ski slopes within the last seven weeks, highlighting a particularly dangerous season for Australian tourists in the region.
Is the Australian Government involved?
Yes, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is currently providing consular assistance to the Jeffries family during this difficult time.