The families of two Melbourne teenagers who died from methanol poisoning in Laos have expressed shock after learning that hostel staff received fines of just $185 for destroying evidence. Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, were among six tourists killed after drinking methanol-laced alcohol at the Nana backpackers hostel in Vang Vieng in November 2024.
The fathers, Shaun Bowles and Mark Jones, said they learned of the court outcome through a group chat with families of other victims, including British lawyer Simone White. They had no prior notification from Lao authorities. 'We were shocked by the absolute injustice for our girls and the others,' Jones told 9News.
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed the charges only related to the death of an American tourist, not the Australian victims. The department apologised for failing to inform the families. Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said she pressed Lao authorities for 'full accountability' and that charges should reflect the tragedy's seriousness.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged the 'added heartbreak' for the families, while Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan called the fines 'heartbreaking' and not a punishment. The Laotian government had previously vowed to bring perpetrators to justice, but the families feel let down by the outcome.
