Jockey Nathan Berry passed away in Sydney today, hours after he was flown back to Australia on a special medical flight.

Berry, 23, was first diagnosed with viral encephalitis after he collapsed at Kranji on March 18. He then suffered a series of seizures and was subsequently diagnosed with a rare brain disorder known as Norse Syndrome last week and was put in an induced coma.

Berry commenced a four-month stint at Kranji on March 1 and rode three winners, including two for his main supporter, trainer Michael Freedman before the tragedy struck.

The Singapore Turf Club said in a statement today: "Though Nathan had only just begun a four-month licence with the Club, he had already demonstrated great riding skills as well as a solid work ethic, but most importantly, he came across as a well-grounded young man who was always professional and courteous towards our local racing community in the short time he has spent with us.

"After having already established himself as one of Australia’s emerging talents, Nathan was quickly making his mark at Kranji, having already ridden three winners in the two weeks he was with us, and was no doubt, destined for a bright future.

"Unfortunately, a terrible rare disease has robbed someone so young of his life, and his family and close friends as well as the Australian racing fraternity of someone who was so well-loved.

"On behalf of the Singapore Turf Club, I wish to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Berry family as well as the Schofield family on their loss," said Singapore Turf Club President and Chief Executive Yu Pang Fey.