Parents of Melbourne methanol-poisoning victims ‘shocked’ by $185 fines handed to Laos hostel staff

Fathers of Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, who died after a night out at the Nana backpackers hostel in 2024, say court decision is ‘absolute injustice’ Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast The families of two Melbourne teenagers who died after drinking methanol-laced alcohol in Laos say they have been blindsided by news the workers responsible for serving the drinks received fines of just $185. Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, were killed by methanol poisoning along with four other tourists after a night out at the Nana backpackers hostel in Vang Vieng, a popular tourist destination in Laos, in November 2024.

• ▸High societal impact — significant public interest implications.
• ▸Moderate risk — warrants continued monitoring.
• ▸Involves 7 identified entities with cross-connections.