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An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Statement on Australian Casualty

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the nation of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He added, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for confidentiality obligations. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support to the hurt national and their family.

A foreign affairs official said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the relatives of an Australian national that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are not in a position to give more details.”

The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with local authorities to establish if any further Australian nationals were involved. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is found in the downtown area of the alpine resort.

Footage from the event depicts orange fire raging from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Certain victims in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

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

Advice for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were told to phone Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.