Hundreds of mourners dressed in bright, springtime colours gathered at Mentone Girl's Grammar in Melbourne's southeast on Friday to farewell Bianca Jones, the 19-year-old who died in a suspected methanol poisoning incident in Laos. The service was held at her former school, with attendees asked to wear colourful clothing and donate to a GoFundMe fundraiser in lieu of flowers.
Ms Jones died surrounded by her family in a Bangkok hospital on November 21, while her best friend Holly Bowles died a day later. The two teenagers from Beaumaris were among six foreign nationals who died in a mass methanol poisoning event in the tourist town of Vang Vieng. Thai authorities confirmed Ms Jones died of 'brain swelling due to high levels of methanol found in her system'.
During the service, Ms Jones' father Mark was seen carrying her coffin, which was covered in pink roses. The father of Holly Bowles walked behind him. Ms Jones' mother was supported by Holly's mother, and the family's golden retriever, Zara, also attended. Attorney General Mark Dreyfus was among the attendees, carrying a large bunch of flowers.
In a statement, Ms Jones' family said: 'Bianca was a private young woman, with a wonderful network, but she was not a celebrity. It is our wish Bianca be farewelled in a manner that reflects her life.' They added: 'The immense love shown by so many is a testament to the profound impact she had... We remain committed to ensuring that awareness of Bianca, Holly and others, internationally impacted by this tragic story, continue.'
Tearful young mourners were seen entering the school's auditorium, where hymns and the song Ave Maria were heard. Attendees wore red ribbons across their hearts, made by school pupils earlier in the week. Both girls' bodies were flown back to Australia a week after their deaths.
