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

Government Confirmation on National Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian national was hurt and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the Swiss people, the victims and families,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is obtaining hospital treatment and the family is receiving support, Australian consular support. I can’t go into any further details for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade verified early Friday 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 hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are prevented from commenting further.”

The official continued, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with local authorities to establish if any other Australians were impacted. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Such support may involve:

• Reaching out to or attending medical facilities.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Swiss police said the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the alpine resort.

Footage from the event shows orange flames billowing from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

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

Information for Worried Relatives

Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were instructed to contact the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on 1300-555-135.