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An Australian national is counted among the 115 persons hurt in a fire that tore through a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Statement on National Injured Person

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian national was hurt and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. I am unable to provide more specifics for reasons of personal privacy. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives.

A foreign affairs official said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family of an Australian that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are not in a position to give more details.”

The representative further stated, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with authorities on the ground to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Such support may involve:

• Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area.
• Working with officials on site.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is situated in the heart of the resort in Valais.

Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.

Information for Worried Relatives

Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were advised to call the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.