A sea of colorfully dressed mourners gathered at Mentone Girls’ Grammar school in Melbourne on Friday to bid a heartbreaking farewell to 19-year-old Bianca Jones, who tragically died in a Bangkok hospital after consuming methanol-laced drinks in Laos.
A Shocking Mass Poisoning Incident
Bianca’s friend, Holly Bowles, also died a day later, along with four other tourists, in a mass drink-spiking event in the popular tourist town of Vang Vieng, Laos.
A Celebration of Life
The funeral service, attended by hundreds of past and current students, family, and friends, was a vibrant celebration of Bianca’s life. The Jones family had requested that attendees wear bright colors, and the result was a stunning display of love and solidarity.
Personal Touches
Fine line drawings by Bianca herself were included in the funeral booklet, featuring images of a rose, rabbits, and a watercolor butterfly. The Mentone Girls’ Grammar choir sang at the ceremony, adding to the emotional atmosphere.
A Guard of Honor
After the service, the hundreds of mourners formed a poignant guard of honor as Bianca’s body and coffin were carried through the sea of colorfully dressed mourners. The crowd was hushed as the hearse departed the school grounds, led by a funeral director on foot, carrying a black and white image of Bianca.
Family’s Plea for Awareness
Bianca’s father, Mark Jones, expressed gratitude for the support the family had received and vowed to continue raising awareness about methanol poisoning. “We remain committed to ensuring that awareness of Bianca, Holly, and others internationally impacted by this tragic story continues,” the Jones family said in a statement.
Justice and Change
The family’s efforts have already led to arrests in Laos, with eight men, including staff members and managers at the Nana Backpackers Hostel, where the tourists stayed, being detained. Three foreign nationals working at the hostel have also been arrested, although no charges have been laid.
Warning to Travelers
The incident has prompted a Smart Traveller alert, urging Australians to avoid Tiger vodka and Tiger whisky over “serious safety concerns.” The alert warns that several foreign nationals, including Australians, have been victims of methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks.
A Lasting Legacy
Bianca’s tragic death has left a gaping hole in the lives of those who knew and loved her. As her family and friends say their final goodbyes, they hope that her story will drive change and inspire efforts to save lives.