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Prominent Aussie surf photographer Brad Masters dies, aged 41

Brad Masters, pictured here before his tragic death.
Brad Masters died after contracting an infection in his neck. Images: Instagram

Well-known Aussie surf photographer Brad Masters has died after contracting a freak infection in his neck.

Masters, 41, was admitted to Siloam Hospital, near Canggu in Bali, on Christmas Day with swelling in his neck.

Despite being rushed home to Perth and undergoing two surgeries, Masters’ family announced on Sunday that he had died.

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Partner Trish Kincaid said Masters’ neck was “scarlet and bigger than his head” when he went to hospital.

He contracted a superbug in hospital and was placed into an induced coma on life support.

The infection in his neck then spread to his lungs, with Masters suffering pneumonia as a result.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news of Brad’s passing in the early hours of this morning,” his family wrote on social media.

“Brad tried really hard to stay with us but unfortunately his body was extremely weak to keep fighting.

“We will take comfort in the beautiful images he created through his photos and his quirky ways.

“We will miss you every second of every day.”

American surfing legend Kelly Slater was among those to pay tribute.

“I’m just blown away. So sorry to read this,” Slater wrote.

“I enjoyed our messages back and forth and feel a big loss a mentawais trip never happened for us.

“RIP Brad. You had friends far and wide who I’m sure will look after your boy in the many years ahead.”

Devastation over death of Brad Masters

Masters had lived in Bali with his partner and son for a number of years, working as a photographer and personal trainer.

His family had been trying to raise money to cover his medical bills after being rejected by his insurance company.

“As you could imagine, the financial stress on Brad’s family is enormous due to the insurance company rejecting the claim,” the family said.

“The medical cost for his treatment is in excess of $75,000 and increasing daily by $3,500 as Brad needs to be in ICU possibly for a further month on a mechanical ventilator.”

Brad Masters, pictured here on life support in hospital before his death.
Brad Masters had been on life support in hospital. Image: Instagram

Masters’ parents were reportedly by his side when he died.

“He put up a hell of a fight but sadly he was so weakened that he could not fight anymore,” a family spokesperson for his fundraising campaign said on Sunday.

“We will take comfort in the beautiful and funny memories that will ease the pain over time. It is so hard to imagine a world without you and your quirky ways.

“Your beautiful son Kai, Dad, Justin, myself, Morgan, Trish, family and friends will miss you every minute of everyday.

“The love and support that has been shown towards Brads family over the last 6 weeks will never, ever be forgotten.

“We cannot thank you enough and we will all be eternally grateful.”

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