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An Australian national is counted among the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a end-of-year festivities in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person

The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the nation of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support 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 relatives of an Australian national that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with authorities on the ground to determine whether any further Australian nationals were involved. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Such support may involve:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called the Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the alpine resort.

Recordings of the tragedy shows orange flames billowing from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Some people who died in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Authorities confirmed arson was not responsible for the fire, which is believed to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Information for Concerned Australians

Citizens anxious regarding family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.