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One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Statement on Australian Casualty

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian national was hurt and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the nation of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He added, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed on Friday morning it was giving consular help to the injured person 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. Owing to our privacy obligations we are prevented from commenting further.”

The representative further stated, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to ascertain if any additional Australians were affected. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

• Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Assistance communicating with family members.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the alpine resort.

Recordings of the tragedy reveals fierce orange flames from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and several people were seen collapsed 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

Investigators stated the fire was not deliberately set for the blaze, which is thought to be the outcome of a mishap.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.