An Australian National Counted Among the Injured in NYE Fire That Killed 40 in Swiss Ski Resort

An Australian national is counted among the 115 people injured in a fire that tore through a packed nightclub during a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.

Ministerial Statement on National Casualty

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

“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He added, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, assistance from the Australian embassy. I can’t go into any further details for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed on Friday morning it was offering diplomatic support to the injured person and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family of an Australian that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with authorities on the ground to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Consular Assistance

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the resort in Valais.

Video of the incident shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Cause and the Fire's Origin

Investigators stated arson was not responsible for the inferno, which is considered to be the result of an accident.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australian nationals worried about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.