Touching Tribute: Beaumaris Footy Club Honours Beloved Victims Holly Bowles & Bianca Jones
Banksia Reserve was filled with emotion on Saturday as the Beaumaris Football Club paid a heartfelt tribute to Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, the two young women tragically lost in the Laos poisoning incident. A powerful guard of honour, complete with a single-file procession of players, marked a poignant moment of remembrance and respect for the lives cut short.
The atmosphere was thick with grief and admiration as the players, proudly displaying bright pink armbands and socks – a nod to the women's vibrant personalities – ran onto the field. The guard of honour, formed by fellow club members, created a pathway of support and solidarity, demonstrating the deep impact Holly and Bianca had on the entire community.
More than just a football club, Beaumaris is a tight-knit community, and the loss of Holly and Bianca has been felt profoundly. Both women were known and loved by many within the club and beyond. The pink theme, chosen as a symbol of their joyful spirits and love of life, served as a constant reminder of the positivity they brought to every occasion.
“It’s just devastating,” said club president, Michael Brennan, visibly moved. “Holly and Bianca were such wonderful girls, always smiling, always encouraging. They were a huge part of our club’s culture. This guard of honour is our way of saying goodbye and celebrating their lives.”
The tribute wasn't just about mourning a loss; it was about honouring a legacy. Holly and Bianca’s enthusiasm and dedication to the Beaumaris Football Club will be remembered for years to come. The club plans to establish a memorial in their honour, ensuring their memory lives on and inspires future generations of players and members.
Beyond the local community, the incident in Laos has sparked international attention and prompted calls for greater safety measures for tourists. The tragic deaths of Holly and Bianca serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise when travelling abroad. However, the outpouring of support and love for the women demonstrates the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
The Beaumaris Football Club’s tribute was a beautiful and moving display of community solidarity, a testament to the enduring legacy of Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones. It was a day of remembrance, reflection, and a powerful reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment.