Second Melbourne teenager dies from suspected Laos methanol poisoning

Holly Bowles, 19, died in a hospital in Thailand on Friday, as confirmed by her devastated parents.

Image: Bianca Jones via Facebook.

Before that, Bianca Jones, from Melbourne, has passed away in a Thai hospital due to methanol poisoning she contracted while in Laos. 

Authorities in Thailand announced her death on Thursday. 

The heartbreaking loss of two Melbourne teenagers, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, during their dream gap year trip in Thailand, has overshadowed what was meant to be an unforgettable adventure. These young women, both just 19 years old, were full of dreams and aspirations, eager to explore the world and create memories that would last a lifetime. Instead, their lives were cut short by a preventable tragedy that has left their families and friends devastated.

Bianca and Holly were vibrant, adventurous, and full of life. They had planned their gap year precisely, eager to experience new cultures, meet new people, and see the world beyond their hometown of Melbourne. Thailand, with its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife, was a natural choice for their travels. However, their dream holiday turned into a nightmare when they consumed methanol-laced cocktails in Laos, a neighboring country they visited during their trip.

Methanol, a highly toxic form of alcohol, is sometimes used in place of ethanol in the production of counterfeit alcoholic beverages. It is cheaper and easier to obtain, but it is also deadly. Even small amounts of methanol can cause severe poisoning, leading to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, blindness, organ failure, and death. Unfortunately, Bianca and Holly fell victim to this dangerous practice, which is all too common in some parts of the world.

The girls were quickly taken to a nearby hospital after consuming the polluted drinks, but despite the best efforts of medical staff, Bianca died from the poisoning. Holly, who was critically ill, fought bravely for her life but ultimately passed away as well. Their deaths have not only shattered their families but have also sent shockwaves through their community back home in Melbourne.

This tragic incident highlights the dangers that travelers can face when consuming alcohol in foreign countries, particularly in places where regulations and enforcement may be not sufficiently strict. It serves as a clear reminder of the importance of being vigilant and cautious, especially when it comes to food and drink. Travelers are often advised to avoid consuming alcohol from unknown or untrusted sources, to stick to bottled or canned beverages, and to be aware of the signs of methanol poisoning.

The deaths of Bianca and Holly have also sparked calls for greater awareness and action to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Their families, while grieving, are determined to raise awareness about the dangers of methanol poisoning and to advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement to protect other travelers. They hope that by sharing their daughters' story, they can prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak.

In memory of Bianca and Holly, their friends and family have set up a foundation to educate travelers about the risks of methanol poisoning and to provide support to those affected by similar incidents. They are also working with authorities and organizations to push for better regulation and enforcement to ensure that counterfeit alcohol is eradicated and that travelers can enjoy their adventures safely.