🔗 Share this article An Australian National Among the Wounded in NYE Fire That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Swiss Ski Resort One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a packed nightclub during a end-of-year festivities in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities. Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday 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,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio. He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for confidentiality obligations. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.” Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries The Australian DFAT stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support 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 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 local authorities to establish if any other Australians were impacted. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.” Nature of Consular Assistance Consular assistance can include: Reaching out to or attending medical facilities. Liaising with local authorities. Offering information on doctors and clinics. Help in contacting relatives. Details of the Blaze Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called the Constellation, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort. Video of the incident depicts orange fire raging from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building. A number of those who perished in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns. Cause and the Blaze's Cause Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the blaze, which is thought to be the outcome of a mishap. Information for Concerned Australians Australians concerned about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were advised to call the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.