🔗 Share this article Australian Counted Among the Wounded in NYE Blaze That Killed 40 in Swiss Alpine Resort One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a blaze that ripped through a packed nightclub during a end-of-year festivities in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives. Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Casualty Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid. “This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the nation of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen told ABC RN radio. He continued, “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 can’t go into any further details for confidentiality obligations. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.” Department Response and Continued Efforts Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade verified early Friday it was offering diplomatic support to the hurt national and their family. A department representative said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support 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 unable to provide further comment.” The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with authorities on the ground to establish if any other Australians were impacted. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.” Scope of Consular Assistance Such support may involve: Contacting or going to local hospitals. Coordinating with Swiss authorities. Offering information on doctors and clinics. Assistance communicating with family members. Details of the Blaze Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a bar popular with tourists called the Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the alpine resort. Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames from inside the first-floor establishment. 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 seriousness of the burns. Investigation into the Fire's Origin Swiss police said the fire was not deliberately set for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident. Information for Concerned Australians Citizens anxious regarding relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.