🔗 Share this article Australian Among the Wounded in NYE Fire That Killed 40 in Switzerland's Ski Resort An Australian national is counted among the 115 individuals wounded in a blaze that ripped through a crowded bar during a end-of-year festivities in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities. Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Injured Person A senior Australian government 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 undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the Swiss people, the people involved,” Bowen told ABC RN radio. He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the family is receiving support, Australian consular support. I can’t go into any further details for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.” Department Assistance and Continued Efforts Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade verified early Friday it was giving consular help to the injured person and their family. A department representative said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.” The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with authorities on the ground to ascertain if any additional Australians were affected. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.” Scope of Consular Assistance Diplomatic aid often encompasses: Communicating with or visiting local hospitals. Liaising with local authorities. Provision of lists of medical providers. Support for reaching out to next of kin. Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire Authorities in Switzerland stated the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre 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. Investigation into the Fire's Origin Investigators stated the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap. Advice for Concerned Australians Citizens anxious regarding relatives who might have been involved in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300-555-135.