🔗 Share this article An Australian National Among the Wounded in NYE Fire That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Switzerland's Alpine Resort One Australian is included in the 115 individuals wounded in a fire that tore through a crowded bar during a end-of-year festivities in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives. Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Injured Person A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian had been injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance. “It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the people of Switzerland, the people involved,” the minister said during ABC RN radio. He continued, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the relatives are getting help, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.” Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support to the affected individual and their relatives. A department representative 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. Because of our privacy commitments we are not in a position to give more details.” The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with Swiss officials to ascertain if any additional Australians were affected. Our team is ready to give consular help.” Nature of Consular Assistance Such support may involve: Communicating with or visiting local hospitals. Liaising with local authorities. Offering information on doctors and clinics. Assistance communicating with family members. Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is found in the downtown area of the resort in Valais. Video of the incident shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Cries and blaring music are audible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building. Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries. Investigation into 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 Worried Relatives Australians concerned about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were instructed to contact the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on 1300 555 135.