Melbourne teen poisoned in Laos farewelled
Melbourne teenager Holly Morton-Bowles has been farewelled in an emotional funeral service.
Grieving friends and family gathered at Beaumaris Secondary College on Monday to honour the 19-year-old, who died alongside her friend after being poisoned in Laos.
Holly and Bianca Jones were among six people who drank methanol-laced cocktails in the town of Vang Vieng in Laos in November while on a gap year holiday.
Beaumaris Secondary College Acting Principal Peter Bartlett read a statement on behalf of Morton-Bowles' parents Shaun and Samantha, and brother James.
"We would like to thank the people of Australia, Canada and the rest of the world for the outpouring of love, support, and compassion during this extremely difficult time," Bartlett said.
"Your kindness has been a source of strength and comfort for our family."
"Today is a profoundly significant day for our family as we come together to celebrate Holly's life and spirit. Holly was loved and adored by so many people, and today is a reflection on her life, however she will remain forever in our hearts."
"We would like to thank all those that have helped in the preparation of today. We kindly ask that our family be given the space to grieve privately on this deeply emotional day."
"This is the most difficult time of our lives, and we thank you for respecting our privacy."
The families of both Morton-Bowles and Jones have asked people to donate to the girls' GoFundMe in lieu of flowers.
Bianca Jones was farewelled on Friday at Mentone Girl's Grammar, in Mentone, the same school she had graduated from last year, with principal Natalie Charles reading out a statement from the Jones family, thanking the public for their "outpouring of love, support and compassion".
Image credits: Nine