A 13-year old boy has died from critical head and spinal injuries suffered in a water-skiing accident at Wyangala Dam at the weekend.
Blake Tickell died in Westmead Children's Hospital on Sunday evening after the incident, which occurred during a race the previous day.
Police said he was competing in a race when he fell heavily at the venue, about 400 kilometres west of Sydney.
It is understood he was travelling about 120 kilometres per hour at the time.
Blake's father Darren paid tribute to his son on social media.
"He died doing what he was so passionate about," he posted.
"Blakey was wise beyond his years, an old soul, had love for everybody, and will be forever in our hearts."
Ski Racing NSW cancelled events that had been scheduled for Sunday after Blake was flown to hospital in a critical condition.
The competition was being run by Ski Racing NSW and Country and ACT Ski Racing.
Blake was unconscious when he was taken from the water.
Ski Racing Australia chairman Russell Lewis said the incident had saddened the sport, and that his organisation would provide support to those involved.
Police are preparing a report for the coroner.
.png?w=600)
