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An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian had been injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the Swiss people, the people involved,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, Australian consular support. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Department Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries

The Australian DFAT verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family.

A department representative 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 injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with local authorities to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Communicating with or visiting medical facilities.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Details of the Blaze

Local police reported the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is found in the downtown area of the resort in Valais.

Recordings of the tragedy shows orange flames billowing 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 inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Authorities confirmed it was not a case of arson for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.

Information for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.