A Belfast man who was left in a coma after he suffered a "devastating blow" to the head during an altercation in Australia has made "very positive" progress.
Michael Hyndman moved to Sydney in September with his fiancee, Clar to begin a "new and exciting chapter in their book of life".
However, his family said this week that they are now in a "living nightmare" after the quantity surveyor suffered a serious head injury at New Year. He later underwent surgery and was left in an induced coma in hospital.
His family set up a GoFundMe page to help raise funds to aid Michael's recovery and so far, more than £13,400 has been raised.
Yesterday, Barry Hyndman said his brother - who was due to start training with Craobh Phadraigh GAA Club in Sydney next week - had been "weaned off the coma inducing drugs but remains heavily sedated most of the time".
"The doctors are carrying out assessments and so far he is responding well," said Mr Hyndman.
"He has shown signs that he can hear what’s going on. As a family we are thrilled with this news but we ask you to continue to pray that progress continues in this direction as he still has a long and uncertain road ahead of him.
"Family members should be arriving in Sydney very soon. We thank each and every one of you for your help in lifting the financial burden and making this nightmare less stressful for our family".
Mr Hyndman added: "We ask you to continue to raise awareness of our campaign by reading Michael’s story and more importantly sharing it so others can offer their prayers and support in whatever way they can.
"It is truly heartwarming and gives us so much hope and faith at this difficult time.
Donations can be made online at www.gofundme.com/michael-needs-your-help-today
