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An Australian is among the 115 individuals wounded in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian had been injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, support from Australian diplomats. I can’t go into any further details for confidentiality obligations. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT confirmed on Friday morning it was offering diplomatic support to the injured person and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family of an Australian that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”

The official continued, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with local authorities to determine whether any additional Australians were affected. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called the Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the resort in Valais.

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Some people who died in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated arson was not responsible for the fire, which is believed to be the outcome of a mishap.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300 555 135.