🕊️ In Loving Memory of 🕊️Holly & Bianca

Our Story

Shining Bright for Holly and Bianca is a heartfelt initiative founded by the families and friends of Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles — two vibrant, adventurous 19-year-old best friends from Australia whose lives were tragically cut short in November 2024 due to methanol poisoning while travelling through Thailand and Laos.

What began as the trip of a lifetime, filled with dreams of adventure and discovery, ended in unimaginable heartbreak when Bianca and Holly fell victim to a hidden and often fatal danger: methanol poisoning. Their lives were taken just one day apart.

Their story has moved many, and through Shining Bright, we are determined to honour their memory by creating lasting change.

Our Mission

In the wake of this tragedy, our mission is to transform grief into action and protect others by:

• Raising Awareness: Educating travellers, communities, and businesses about the risks of methanol poisoning and how it can be prevented.
• Supporting Existing Initiatives: Contributing to organisations already working to combat methanol poisoning through education and advocacy.

Through these efforts, we aim to prevent other families from enduring the heartbreak we have faced.

The Charity Luncheon

Our inaugural charity luncheon at Sandringham Yacht Club on Sunday, 25 May 2025, brings together family, friends, and the wider community to celebrate the lives of Holly and Bianca, while raising vital funds for our cause.

The event features special guests, an online silent auction, and the opportunity to connect with others committed to making a difference.

All proceeds will support two charities close to Holly and Bianca's hearts:

• Pets for the Homeless
• Team Sports 4 All

Both organisations reflect the compassion, kindness, and spirit that Holly and Bianca carried with them every day.

Join Our Cause

Every donation — big or small — honours Holly and Bianca's memory and helps protect future travellers from hidden dangers.

We are deeply grateful for the incredible outpouring of love and support during this time. Together, we can create meaningful change and keep Bianca and Holly's bright spirits alive.