Jet-ski Death on Holiday

A 31-year-old British doctor has been killed in a jet-ski accident while on holiday in Australia.

The man, who has not yet been named, was holidaying with his wife when the craft he was on collided with a moored boat and he was thrown into the water.

He is believed to have suffered a broken pelvis and injuries to his head and upper body in the incident, which occurred in Labrador on the Gold Coast, and he died despite efforts to resuscitate him by bystanders.

His wife, 32, was taken to hospital and treated for minor injuries and shock.

Staff at local Jet Ski hire firm Shane's Watersports World said they had warned the man he was going too close to a boat just moments before the tragedy.

Part owner Trevor Gibson said: "It is inexplicable that it happened. Where he left the beach and where the boat was, I just have no idea how he could have hit it."

The Foreign Office confirmed the death, and added that it has offered consular assistance.

Clive Garner, Head of Travel Law at Irwin Mitchell said: "While it is too early to determine the precise cause of this tragic incident, it does raise the familiar issue about inadequate training sometimes being given to the users of Jet Ski."

"Every year there are fatalities and serious injuries caused by Jet Ski's, many of which could have been avoided if there had been more detailed and thorough tuition given to Jet Skiers. Novice users need to be taught not only the basics of how the Jet Ski works, but they also need to be given instruction on how to use a Jet Ski safely and how to avoid danger. This can include following key navigational rules, keeping safe distances from other craft and other obstacles including the significance of tides and the wake from other marine craft."

"Using a Jet Ski can be a thrilling experience, but they are a potential danger to the user and others and proper tuition and safe equipment are essential."