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One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the mountain resort of Crans-Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the nation of Switzerland, the people involved,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The Australian DFAT confirmed on Friday morning it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives.

A Dfat spokesperson 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. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”

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

Scope of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

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

Details of the Blaze

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

Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.