🔗 Share this article An Australian National Among the Wounded in NYE Blaze That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Switzerland's Ski Resort One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a packed nightclub during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives. Ministerial Confirmation on National Injured Person A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian national was hurt and was receiving medical and consular assistance. “It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the Swiss people, the people involved,” Bowen told ABC RN radio. He further stated, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.” Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts The Australian DFAT stated this morning it was giving consular help to the hurt national and their family. A foreign affairs official said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 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 representative further stated, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with authorities on the ground to determine whether any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.” Scope of Diplomatic Support Consular assistance can include: Contacting or going to hospitals in the area. Coordinating with Swiss authorities. Supplying details of healthcare professionals. Help in contacting relatives. Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation bar, which is situated in the heart of the alpine resort. Recordings of the tragedy depicts orange fire raging from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building. Certain victims in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries. Cause and the Fire's Origin Authorities confirmed arson was not responsible for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap. Advice for Worried Relatives Citizens anxious regarding family members who may have been caught up in the fire were told to phone the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on the number 1300 555 135.