🔗 Share this article An Australian National Counted Among the Wounded in NYE Fire That Killed 40 in Swiss Alpine Resort An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a end-of-year festivities in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives. Ministerial Statement on National Casualty The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian national was hurt and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support. “It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” the minister said during 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, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for confidentiality obligations. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.” Department Assistance and Continued Efforts The Australian DFAT verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family. A department representative said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the relatives of an Australian national that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are not in a position to give more details.” The official continued, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with local authorities to ascertain if any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.” Nature of Consular Assistance Such support may involve: Reaching out to or attending local hospitals. Liaising with local authorities. Supplying details of healthcare professionals. Support for reaching out to next of kin. Details of the Tragic Fire Authorities in Switzerland stated the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers 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. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building. Some people who died in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the seriousness of the burns. Investigation into the Blaze's Cause Authorities confirmed arson was not responsible for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident. Information for Concerned Australians Australians concerned about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were instructed to contact Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300 555 135.