🔗 Share this article Australian Among the Wounded in NYE Blaze That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Switzerland's Alpine Resort An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a end-of-year festivities in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives. Ministerial Confirmation on National Injured Person Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid. “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 told ABC RN radio. He continued, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. I can’t go into any further details for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.” Department Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries The Australian DFAT verified early Friday 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 family members of an Australian citizen that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.” The official continued, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with local authorities to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.” Scope of Diplomatic Support Diplomatic aid often encompasses: Reaching out to or attending local hospitals. Liaising with local authorities. Provision of lists of medical providers. Help in contacting relatives. Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the resort in Valais. Recordings of the tragedy reveals fierce orange flames from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building. Certain victims in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns. Investigation into the Blaze's Cause Investigators stated arson was not responsible for the inferno, which is considered to be the result of an accident. Information for Concerned Australians Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on 1300 555 135.