Formal thanks for avalanche rescuers

Seven Australian skiers who rescued would-be victims of the Mount Hakkouda avalanche in February have received formal thanks from Japan's Consul-General Tsukasa Kawada. The group, five of whom are members of the Thredbo Ski Patrol, were on vacation at Mt Hakkouda in Aomori Prefecture when the avalanche struck. They managed to save eight skiers buried in the snow, using rescue tools they had with them.
As the Australians had returned home only days after the accident, a letter of appreciation from Aomori Prefecture, Aomori City and the Aomori Prefectural Police was presented on March 26 at the Consul-General's official residence in Sydney. Mr Kawada thanked the Australians, praising them for their bravery in difficult conditions.
One of the rescuers, 48-year-old Jonathan Disher of Jindabyne, said the accident was unfortunate but he "was happy to be of assistance''. Mr Disher hopes to return to Japan next year.