An Australian National Counted Among the Wounded in NYE Blaze That Killed 40 in Switzerland's Alpine Resort

An Australian is among the 115 individuals wounded in a fire that tore through a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Confirmation on National Casualty

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian national was hurt and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the nation of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” 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 relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department confirmed on Friday morning it was giving consular help to the hurt national and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family of an Australian that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are prevented from commenting further.”

The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to establish if any additional Australians were affected. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Contacting or going to hospitals in the area.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

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

Video of the incident shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Some people who died in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

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

Information for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.