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An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a blaze that ripped through a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian had been injured 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 individuals affected,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He continued, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for confidentiality obligations. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Department Response and Ongoing Inquiries

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was giving consular help to the affected individual and their relatives.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance 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 unable to provide further comment.”

The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with authorities on the ground to establish if any additional Australians were affected. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
• Working with officials on site.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Details of the Blaze

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is situated in the heart of the resort in Valais.

Recordings of the tragedy reveals fierce orange flames from inside the first-floor establishment. Cries and blaring music are audible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.

Some people who died in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Authorities confirmed it was not a case of arson for the inferno, which is considered 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 told to phone Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300 555 135.