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An Australian is among the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Casualty

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian had been injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the nation of Switzerland, the people involved,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the family is being assisted, Australian consular support. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the injured person and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the family members of an Australian citizen 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 Swiss officials to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Working with officials on site.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.

Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, 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

Authorities confirmed it was not a case of arson for the fire, which is believed to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Information for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried 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.