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Parents of Laos poisoning victims speak out

<p>Melbourne teenagers Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, were on a the trip of a lifetime backpacking through Southeast Asia on their gap year when they fell seriously ill. </p> <p>The 19-year-old friends were staying at the popular Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng last November, when they were rushed to hospital after a night out with suspected <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-trouble/two-aussie-teens-poisoned-in-laos-identified" target="_blank" rel="noopener">methanol poisoning</a>. </p> <p>The teens were among six tourists who died in the mass poisoning. </p> <p>The backpacker hostel has since shut down, and while the Laos government said it was "profoundly saddened" by the deaths and vowed to prosecute those responsible, months later, the girls' families are still searching for answers. </p> <p>In an exclusive interview with <em>60 Minutes </em>journalist Tara Brown, their parents – Mark and Michelle Jones alongside Sam and Shaun Bowles – said the Laos government has refused to meet with them since the teenagers’ deaths.</p> <p>“We’ve heard nothing,” Mark said in the interview on Sunday. </p> <p>"For them not to reach out is, that's just not good enough."</p> <p>When it came to the Laos government's response, both families felt there was a lack of empathy and accountability. </p> <p>After the backpacker hostel was shut down and eight staff were <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/eight-people-detained-over-laos-methanol-poisoning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">detained and released</a>, the investigation has seemingly stalled. </p> <p>"It seems like a complete cover-up," Mark said, claiming there was a lack of transparency in the investigation. </p> <p>"We haven't heard anything from the Laos government. Not a thing," Shaun added. "It's appalling."</p> <p>"The Laos government sent their condolences via the federal police, and that to us means nothing, nothing at all," Shaun continued.</p> <p>The parents hope that by speaking out about the dangers of methanol poisoning, others will be able to avoid suffering similar tragedies in their own families. </p> <p>“I cannot have my daughter’s passing not mean anything," Mark said. </p> <p>"If this gets parents to have a conversation with their kids if they're off travelling, then that's something," Shaun added.</p> <p>All four parents said they had no confidence the truth could ever be revealed, but they still want justice and answers. </p> <p>"We want some form of closure," Mark said.</p> <p>"We want to understand that people who have done wrong by our daughter and Holly and the other people are going to be brought to justice."</p> <p><em>Images: Nine/ 60 Minutes</em></p>

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Novak Djokovic "poisoned" in Australia

<p>Novak Djokovic claims he was "poisoned" while he was detained in a Melbourne hotel room ahead of the 2022 Australian Open. </p> <p>The Serbian tennis champion was infamously deported from the country three years ago when he did not meet the country’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements at the height of the pandemic.</p> <p>After the federal government cancelled his visa, he stayed at a Melbourne immigration detention facility for five days alongside refugees and asylum seekers.</p> <p>During his time at the Park Hotel in Carlton, he claims he was fed food that was "poisoned" with “lead and mercury”, as he faced "some health issues" when he returned to Serbia. </p> <p>“I had some health issues. And I realised that in that hotel in Melbourne I was fed with some food that poisoned me,” Djokovic told <em><a href="https://www.gq.com/story/novak-djokovic-conquered-tennis-whats-next" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GQ Sports</a></em>.</p> <p>“I had some discoveries when I came back to Serbia. I never told this to anybody publicly, but discoveries that I had a really high level of heavy metal. Heavy metal. I had the lead, very high level of lead and mercury.”</p> <p>Pressed on whether he thought the substances entered his body via the food in Melbourne, Djokovic said: “That’s the only way."</p> <p>“Yeah, (I was) very sick. It was like the flu, just a simple flu. But when it was days after that a simple flu took me down so much, I had an emergency medical team treat me at home. I had that several times and then I had to do toxicology (tests).”</p> <p>The 37-year-old, who has claimed the Aus Open victory 10 times, says he holds no grudges against Australia, but he can’t say the same thing for his family.</p> <p>“Well, for my wife and my parents and my family, it’s not (water under the bridge),” he says.</p> <p>“For me, it is. For me, I’m fine. I never held any grudge over Australian people. In contrary, actually, a lot of Australian people that I meet, I met in Australia the last few years or elsewhere in the world, coming up to me and apologising to me for the treatment I received because they were embarrassed by their own government at that point."</p> <p>“I actually love being there, and I think my results are a testament to my sensation of playing tennis and just being in that country.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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12 dead in mass poisoning at ski resort

<p>The bodies of 12 people have been found dead in a luxury ski resort in Georgia after a suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. </p> <p>The bodies of 11 Indian nationals and one Georgian national were discovered on Saturday at a ski resort in Gudauri, in the north of the Caucasus country, according to local police.</p> <p>Authorities confirmed that “preliminary tests do not indicate any trace of violence on the bodies,” which were found on the second floor of a building housing an Indian food restaurant at the ski resort.</p> <p>“An oil-powered generator was turned on after the building lost electricity” on Friday, police said, which is believed to be the source of the poisoning. </p> <p>The identities of the victims were not immediately released but they are presumed to be employees of the restaurant, according to the Georgian Interior Ministry. </p> <p>The deaths are being treated as negligent manslaughter, as autopsies have been ordered to determine the actual cause of death, while authorities have opened an investigation into the incident.</p> <p>The Indian Embassy in Georgia's capital of Tbilisi said it was "committed to providing all possible support" to the bereaved families and that it was working to repatriate the bodies of the 11 Indian nationals.</p> <p>Gudauri, lodged high up in the Caucasus Mountains close to the border with Russia, is becoming increasingly popular with tourists, offering a cheaper alternative to Europe's main resorts in the Alps.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p>

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Four Australians hospitalised after suspected poisoning in Fiji

<p>A resort in Fiji is investigating a suspected poisoning that has left at least four Australians hospitalised.</p> <p>Local health officials reported that seven guests of the Warwick Fiji Resort were taken to hospital after allegedly drinking cocktails that had been poisoned.</p> <p>The seven people were aged from 18 to 56 and had nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms after consuming the alcoholic beverages. </p> <p>According to the <em>ABC</em>, four Australian women aged 56, 49, 19 and 18 were among those receiving treatment in hospital. </p> <p>The 56-year-old was under constant surveillance in hospital, the public broadcaster said, while the 49-year-old and 18-year-old were critical but last night not as serious. </p> <p>A Warwick Fiji Resort spokesperson confirmed they were aware of the "recent news regarding suspected alcohol poisoning" and are taking the matter "very seriously". </p> <p>"Please rest assured that we are taking this matter very seriously and are currently conducting a thorough investigation," a spokesperson told <em><a href="https://www.9news.com.au/world/fiji-drink-poisoning-fears-two-australians-believed-among-seven-hospitalised/86aa947d-c1b6-475d-a57d-f22d8edf2e1f" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9news.com.au</a></em>.</p> <p>"We are also awaiting the health authorities test result report to gather all necessary information.</p> <p>"At this moment, we do not have conclusive details, but we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our guests. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available."</p> <p>The Australian government <a title="Smart Traveller" href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/pacific/fiji" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Smart Traveller</a> website updated its safety alert for Fiji yesterday, warning travellers to "be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks".</p> <p>"We continue to advise exercise normal safety precautions," Smart Traveller says.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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Melbourne teen poisoned in Laos farewelled

<p>Melbourne teenager Holly Morton-Bowles has been farewelled in an emotional funeral service. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>Beaumaris Secondary College Acting Principal Peter Bartlett read a statement on behalf of Morton-Bowles' parents Shaun and Samantha, and brother James.</p> <p>"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.</p> <p>"Your kindness has been a source of strength and comfort for our family."</p> <p>"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."</p> <p>"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."</p> <p>"This is the most difficult time of our lives, and we thank you for respecting our privacy."</p> <p>The families of both Morton-Bowles and Jones have asked people to donate to the girls' GoFundMe in lieu of flowers.</p> <p>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".</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine</em></p>

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Eight people detained over Laos methanol poisoning

<p>Eight men have been detained over the suspected mass methanol poisoning in Laos that killed six tourists, including two Australians. </p> <p>Police in Laos told the <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-26/laos-methanol-poisoning-detained/104650642" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>ABC</em></a> that detained men were staff and management of the Nana Backpackers hostel, where Melbourne teenagers Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles were staying when they fell sick.</p> <p>The two 19 year olds had consumed the alcoholic beverages in the party town of Vang Vieng, and later died in seperate hospitals in Thailand. </p> <p>Four other tourists from Denmark, the UK and the US have also died.</p> <p>Police in Laos last week forcibly shut down the Nana hostel, where five of the six victims who died were staying.</p> <p>They questioned staff, ranging in ages from 23 to 47, including the bartender and owner, while the Laos government vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.</p> <p>The arrests come as the bodies of Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles arrived home in Australia on Tuesday night, with Bianca's father Mark fronting the media at Melbourne Airport to welcome the news of the arrests. </p> <p>"We want to grieve. We miss our daughters desperately. I was happy to hear there's been some movement over in Laos," he said.</p> <p>"I would continue to urge our government to continue to pursue whomever. We will make every effort we can to help raise awareness of methanol poisoning."</p> <p><em>Image credits: RUNGROJ YONGRIT/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock </em></p>

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Foreign victims killed in mass methanol poisoning identified

<p>The victims of the mass methanol poisoning in Laos have been identified, with the death toll now rising to six. </p> <p>Danish women Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman, 20, Freja Vennervald Sorensen, 21, and American man James Louis Hutson, 57, were among those who died after a group of backpackers consumed alcoholic drinks spiked with methanol in the party town of Vang Vieng.</p> <p>Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both 19, had already been named as two Melbourne teenagers who lost their lives last week while on their gap year, along with British woman Simone White, 28.</p> <p>Ms Jones and Ms Bowles were staying at Nana Backpackers Hostel, which has been closed since November 14th, just days after the incident occurred. </p> <p>It is understood that the two Danish and American victims were also staying at Nana Backpackers Hostel.</p> <p>Ms Coyman and Ms Sorensen were reportedly found unconscious on the bathroom floor on November 13th after they had been out drinking the night before. </p> <p>Mr Hutson was reportedly found unconscious in his bed on November 13th after staff noticed he had not come out of his room. </p> <p>All three tourists died in the following days in hospital. </p> <p>Dr Yaher, who first treated Ms Bowles in Vang Vieng, claimed she went from a state of confusion to a coma in just half an hour after consuming the methanol-laced beverage. </p> <p>The doctor told <em>The Times</em> she was confused and fatigued, and didn’t know what had happened when she arrived at his small one-storey hospital at 2am.</p> <p>“We treated her symptomatically,” he told the publication.</p> <p>“We put her on an IV drip and gave her vitamins. But after 30 minutes she had a seizure and went into a coma. I was so surprised. We gave her CPR, because she had difficulty breathing, and we intubated her and referred her to Vientiane.”</p> <p>The Laos government released a statement on Saturday expressing sympathy and condolences to the families of the tourists who died, saying an investigation was underway and promised to “bring the perpetrators to justice according to the law”.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p> <p> </p>

Travel Trouble

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Father's emotional plea after death of his daughter from methanol poisoning

<p>The grieving father of 19-year-old Bianca Jones, who tragically died after consuming methanol-laced cocktails in Laos, has issued a plea to ensure his daughter’s death was not in vain.</p> <p>Bianca and her friend Holly Bowles had been travelling around south-east Asia on a gap year trip when they consumed the deadly drinks in the party town of Vang Vieng, a popular tourist area about 130km north of Laos capital, Vientiane.</p> <p>Both Bianca and Holly were rushed to seperate hospitals in Thailand, and passed away last week. </p> <p>Speaking publicly for the first time about the tragedy, Bianca’s father Mark Jones, said his daughter’s “lust for life and adventure” had “cruelly been cut short”.</p> <p>“Our daughter was on the trip of a lifetime with one of her best mates,” he said.</p> <p>“This was meant to be a trip full of lifelong memories, and was to be the first of many. Bianca wanted to explore the world, meet new friends, lead and create change for good.”</p> <p>Following the deaths of the two young women, an outpouring of sympathy flooded in from around Australia including from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, while hundreds attended a vigil held in the women’s honour in Melbourne on Saturday.</p> <p>Mr Jones thanked Australian government for its support but made a plea to authorities in Laos.</p> <p>“I would like to take this opportunity to urge the Laos government to investigate this to the fullest extent, to make sure this incident doesn’t happen again,” he said.</p> <p>“We can’t have the passing of our daughter … not lead to change to protect others. Young men and women should be able to travel, create their own life experiences and be safe."</p> <p>“We’ll forever miss our beautiful girl and hope her loss of life has not been in vain.”</p> <p>The Laotian government has promised to bring perpetrators to justice after the mass poisoning that has killed six tourists, including the two Australian women.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine News / Facebook</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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What is methanol? How does it get into drinks and cause harm?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ian-musgrave-1808">Ian Musgrave</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a></em></p> <p>Melbourne teenager Bianca Jones <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-21/bianca-jones-dead-laos-methanol-poisoning/104630384">has died</a> and her friend Holly Bowles remains severely ill in hospital in Thailand, after experiencing suspected methanol poisoning while they were travelling in Laos.</p> <p>The pair are reportedly among <a href="https://x.com/Smartraveller/status/1858850858227954118">several foreign nationals</a> who became ill after unknowingly consuming alcoholic drinks containing methanol in the south-east Asian country.</p> <p>So what is methanol, and how does it make people sick?</p> <h2>Methanol versus ethanol</h2> <p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methanol">Methanol</a> is an <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcohol_(chemistry)">alcohol</a>, like the familiar <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethanol">ethanol</a> we consume in alcoholic beverages.</p> <p>Like ethanol, methanol is a colourless, flammable liquid. It has a smell similar to ethanol as well.</p> <p>But the two have different chemical structures. Methanol is composed of only one carbon atom, while ethanol has two.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/633188/original/file-20241120-15-i7wr12.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/633188/original/file-20241120-15-i7wr12.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=300&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633188/original/file-20241120-15-i7wr12.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=300&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633188/original/file-20241120-15-i7wr12.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=300&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633188/original/file-20241120-15-i7wr12.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=377&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633188/original/file-20241120-15-i7wr12.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=377&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/633188/original/file-20241120-15-i7wr12.png?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=377&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="Models of methanol and ethanol depicted with balls and sticks." /><figcaption><span class="caption">Methanol (left) and ethanol (right) have differing chemical structures.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Wikimedia Commons</span>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></span></figcaption></figure> <p>That one carbon atom makes all the difference. It means methanol is processed differently in our bodies and is much more toxic than ethanol.</p> <p>Methanol is used in a <a href="https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Methanol">variety of industrial and household products</a>, such as windshield cleaning fluids, antifreeze and fuel. It’s not safe for human consumption.</p> <h2>What makes methanol toxic?</h2> <p>The difference is in how methanol is metabolised, or broken down in our bodies.</p> <p>Ethanol is metabolised into a chemical compound called acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde is toxic, but is rapidly converted to acetate (also known as acetic acid, found in vinegar). Generating an acid may sound bad, but acetate actually <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6699882/">produces energy and makes important molecules</a> in the body.</p> <p>By contrast, methanol is metabolised into <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/formaldehyde">formaldehyde</a> (a chemical used in <a href="https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/hazardous-chemical/priority-chemicals/formaldehyde">industrial glues</a> and for embalming corpses, for example) and then to <a href="https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Formic-Acid">formic acid</a> (the chemical in some ant bites that makes them hurt so much).</p> <p>Unlike acetate, which the body uses, formic acid <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1665561/">poisons the mitochondria</a>, the powerhouses of the cells.</p> <p>As a result, a person exposed to methanol can go into severe <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482121/">metabolic acidosis</a>, which is when too much acid builds up in the body.</p> <p>Methanol poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The acidosis then causes depression of the central nervous system which can cause people with methanol poisoning to fall unconscious and go into a coma, as well as retinal damage leading to vision loss. This is because the retinas are full of active mitochondria and sensitive to them being damaged.</p> <p>Death is not inevitable if only a small amount of methanol has been consumed, and rapid treatment will greatly reduce damage.</p> <p>However, permanent vision damage can occur even at <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482121/">non-lethal doses</a> if treatment is not administered quickly.</p> <h2>What does treatment involve?</h2> <p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482121/">Treatment</a> is mainly supportive care, such as intubation and mechanical ventilation to help the patient to breathe.</p> <p>But it can also involve drugs such as <a href="https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01213">fomepizole</a> (which inhibits the generation of toxic formic acid) and dialysis to remove methanol and its metabolites from the body.</p> <h2>How does methanol get into alcoholic drinks?</h2> <p>Methanol can turn up in any alcoholic beverage, but it’s most likely in beverages with higher alcohol content, such as spirits, and traditionally brewed drinks, such as fruit wines.</p> <p>Methanol can get into alcoholic beverages in a number of ways. Sometimes it’s added <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8303512/">deliberately and illegally</a> during or after manufacturing as a cheaper way to increase the alcohol content in a drink.</p> <p><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5028366/">Traditional brewing methods</a> can also inadvertently generate methanol as well as ethanol and produce toxic levels of methanol depending on the microbes and the types of plant materials used in the fermentation process.</p> <p>We don’t yet know how the Australian teenagers came to be poisoned in this tragedy. But it is a good idea when travelling (particularly in areas with traditionally fremented drinks, such as south-east Asia, the Indian subcontinent and parts of Africa) to always be careful.</p> <p>The Australian government’s <a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/safety/partying#methanol">Smartraveller website</a> advises that to avoid methanol poisoning you should be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits, drink only at reputable licensed premises and avoid home-made alcoholic drinks.</p> <p>Drinking only mass-produced commercial brews can be safer, though understandably people often want to try locally made drinks as part of their adventure.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/244151/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ian-musgrave-1808">Ian Musgrave</a>, Senior lecturer in Pharmacology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-methanol-how-does-it-get-into-drinks-and-cause-harm-244151">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

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Fifth death confirmed in Laos poisoning

<p>A young British lawyer has died in hospital after a suspected mass poisoning that has claimed the lives of four others. </p> <p>On Thursday, Melbourne teen Bianca Jones became the fourth person to die from suspected methanol poisoning following the deaths of two Danish women and an American who had all been holidaying in the in the party town of Vang Vieng. </p> <p>Lawyer Simone White, 28, was among a dozen other tourists taken to hospital after visiting the backpacker town, with Thai police confirming her death on Friday morning. </p> <p>In a statement to <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/news/british-lawyer-simone-white-in-hospital-after-apparent-mass-methanol-poisoning-in-laos-c-16833986" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a></em>, a spokesperson for Britain’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed a death in Laos, saying, “We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in Laos, and we are in contact with the local authorities.”</p> <p>Her friend Bethany Clarke, who was with White on holiday, urged tourists in the region to “avoid all local spirits” after their group of six fell ill.</p> <p>“Our group stayed in Vang Vieng and we drank free shots offered by one of the bars. Just avoid them as so not worth it,” she wrote in a Laos backpacking Facebook group.</p> <p>“Six of us who drank from the same place are in hospital currently with methanol poisoning.”</p> <p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Jones, 19, in federal parliament on Thursday after news of her death was shared, as her friend Holly Bowles continues to fight for her life in a Bangkok hospital.</p> <p>“This is every parent’s very worst fear and a nightmare that no one should have to endure,” Albanese said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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"Every parent's nightmare": Families of poisoned teens share update

<p>The families of Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones have shared a heartbreaking update as the teenagers continue to fight for their lives after being <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-trouble/two-aussie-teens-poisoned-in-laos-identified" target="_blank" rel="noopener">poisoned</a> in Laos. </p> <p>While travelling around south-east Asia on a gap year, the Melbourne 19 year olds consumed what is believed to be methanol-laced drinks in Laos.</p> <p>The young women were found barely alive in their hotel room and were rushed to a hospital in the neighbouring country of Thailand, where they remain on life support. </p> <p>Holly’s dad Shaun Bowles fronted the media on Wednesday in Bangkok where he confirmed his daughter remained in the ICU in a critical condition, where the family are spending as much time as possible by her bedside. </p> <p>“Right now our daughter remains in the intensive care unit in a critical condition. She’s on life support,” Shaun said.</p> <p>“We’d just like to thank everyone from back home for all the support and love that we’re receiving but we’d also like for people to appreciate right now we just need privacy so we can spend as much time as we can with Holly.”</p> <p>Bianca's family also released a statement saying there was no update on her condition, but confirmed that she remains on life support. </p> <p>"Our family has been overwhelmed by the messages of love and support that have come from across Australia," the statement from the family reads.</p> <p>"This is every parent's nightmare and we want to ensure no other family is forced to endure the anguish we are going through. We hope the authorities can get to the bottom of what happened as soon as possible."</p> <p>Authorities suspect the girls drank poisoned cocktails which reportedly had shots of "vodka" while holidaying in the party town of Vang Vieng, a popular tourist area about 130km north of Laos capital, Vientiane.</p> <p>They were among a large group of international travellers who fell victim to what is feared to be a mass poisoning which has already killed two other people. </p> <p><em><strong>Editor's note: Police in Thailand confirmed the death of Bianca Jones on Thursday afternoon. Holly Bowles is understood to still be in hospital.</strong></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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Two Aussie teens poisoned in Laos identified

<p>Two Australian teenagers who are fighting for their lives in a hospital in Thailand have been identified. </p> <p>While travelling around south-east Asia on a gap year, Melbourne teens Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both aged 19, consumed what is believed to be methanol-laced drinks in Laos.</p> <p>The young women were found barely alive in their hotel room and were rushed to a hospital in the neighbouring country of Thailand, where they remain on life support. </p> <p>Authorities suspect the girls drank poisoned cocktails which reportedly had shots of "vodka" while holidaying in the party town of Vang Vieng, a popular tourist area about 130km north of Laos capital, Vientiane.</p> <p>They were among a large group of international travellers who fell victim to what is feared to be a mass poisoning which has already killed two other people. </p> <p>Ms Jones’ family has expressed disbelief in what has happened to their daughter, describing her as their "angel" as they rushed to be at her bedside. </p> <p>"Our beautiful Bianca was on a dream getaway with her best friend Holly," they told the <em><a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/two-melbourne-girls-on-life-support-in-bangkok-after-ethanol-poisoning-in-laos/news-story/6194b29655744b3f1bceeab2980c8e83" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">Herald Sun</a></em>.</p> <p>"They were filled with joy and had such incredible adventures ahead of them, travelling through Asia. We are here by Bianca’s bedside praying for her."</p> <p>"She's just an absolute star. She's a bundle of joy. To know her is to love her," the cafe manager told <em><a title="The Age" href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/fears-for-absolute-star-as-teens-fight-for-life-in-thailand-after-alcohol-poisoning-20241119-p5krpb.html" target="" rel="">The Age</a></em>.</p> <p>"We're just praying for the family. She's just a loyal, caring sweet person. We value her so much as a friend as well as a colleague."</p> <p>The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provided <em><a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/laos-methanol-poisoning-melbourne-teens-suspected-methanol-poisoning-identified/b5721fe5-e323-4807-8790-e9d070b51194" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a></em> with a statement on Wednesday, with a spokesperson saying they were "providing consular assistance" to two Australians and their families in Thailand.</p> <p>"Our thoughts are with them at this deeply distressing time," a spokesperson said.</p> <p>"Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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Six people found dead in luxury hotel

<p>A disturbing theory has emerged after six people were found dead in a luxury hotel room in central Bangkok. </p> <p>According to Bangkok’s Metropolitan Police commissioner Thiti Saengsawang, hotel staff at the Grand Hyatt Erawan discovered the bodies of six people in a fifth-floor room after they missed check out time by more than 24 hours.</p> <p>After concluding that the incident did not appear to be a robbery and none of the bodies showed any signs of physical violence, Thai Police are exploring the possibility that the people were poisoned.</p> <p>Police shared that they "needed to find out the motives", and that the deaths were the result of a "killing", not a suicide.</p> <p>Authorities conformed they are investigating the potential poisoning after Thiti said cups with traces of a white powder were located in the room, along with untouched food that had been ordered earlier.</p> <p>As police continue their investigation into the shocking deaths, they are currently searching for a seventh person who was part of the hotel booking and is now a possible suspect.</p> <p>Two of the dead were US citizens of Vietnamese background, while the other four were Vietnamese nationals.</p> <p>Thiti said police believe one member of the group had tried to reach the door to escape but fell and died before they could get there.</p> <p>The Thai government issued a statement after the killings, with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin saying, "There were no signs of a struggle," adding, "We need to conduct an autopsy."</p> <p>He also "ordered all agencies to urgently take action to avoid impact on tourism,” given that the luxury hotel is situated in a popular tourist area.</p> <p><em>Image credits: BBC / Royal Thai Police </em></p>

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Health retreat responds to woman's suspected mushroom poisoning death

<p>The alternative health centre where Rachael Dixon died after consuming a drink allegedly containing <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/woman-dies-after-suspected-mushroom-poisoning-at-health-retreat" target="_blank" rel="noopener">poisonous mushrooms</a> have issued a public statement on the incident. </p> <p>The 53-year-old and her friends took part in a holistic wellness retreat at Soul Barn Creative Wellbeing Centre when Dixon fell ill on Saturday night after <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px;">she allegedly crushed up mushrooms</span><span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px;"> and consumed them in a drink. </span></p> <p>While her two friends were rushed to hospital and released a few days later, Dixon went into cardiac arrest, and despite best efforts by paramedics, she died at the scene just after 12am.</p> <p>Soul Barn, a self-described “creative wellbeing centre” specialising in holistic and alternative practices issued a statement on Thursday saying they were devastated by the incident. </p> <p>They also claimed that the event on Saturday that Dixon attended was not run by the centre or facilitated by any of its staff.</p> <p>“Soul Barn hires out workshop (spaces) to external businesses and facilitators,” they said. </p> <p>“The event which took place on April 13 was a private event, and those facilitating the event do not work for or represent Soul Barn in any way.</p> <p>“None of our regular therapists staff or facilitators were present at any point during this event.</p> <p>“We share the shock and devastation of everyone involved, and our hearts are with those families affected.”</p> <p>The health centre will remain closed while police investigate Dixon's death and a report is being prepared for the coroner. </p> <p><em>Image: 7NEWS</em></p>

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Woman dies after suspected mushroom poisoning at health retreat

<p>A 53-year-old woman has died and two others have been rushed to hospital after allegedly ingesting poisonous mushrooms while at a holistic wellness retreat. </p> <p>Rachael Dixon became violently ill on Saturday night after she allegedly crushed up mushrooms and consumed them in a drink. </p> <p>Dixon and her two friends were at the Soul Barn Creative Wellbeing Centre, an "alternative health retreat" in Clunes, near Ballarat, when the incident occurred. </p> <p>An ambulance was called after reports she was in cardiac arrest and not breathing, and despite best efforts by paramedics, she died at the scene just after 12am.</p> <p>Her two friend were also rushed to hospital, but were released days later. </p> <p>Police are investigating her sudden death, and are expected to look into if the drink contained 'magic' mushrooms, which contain the hallucinogenic chemical psilocybin.</p> <p>Dixon's son Matthew paid tribute to his mother on Facebook, writing, "To the most loving, most caring person I've ever known can't thank you enough for everything you ever did for me and all the support you gave me."</p> <p>"Words can't begin to describe how much I will miss you, wish I could give you one last hug."</p> <p>Soul Barn has remained closed since the incident as local business owners and residents said the incident was "confronting" and "devastating".</p> <p>The death comes after Victorian authorities warned residents earlier this month that poisonous mushrooms were growing across the state.</p> <p>“Unless you are an expert, do not pick and eat wild mushrooms in Victoria,” acting chief health officer Evelyn Wong said.</p> <p>“There is no home test available to distinguish safe and edible mushrooms from poisonous mushrooms.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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Deadly mushroom lunch survivor speaks out for the first time

<p>The man who survived the deadly mushroom lunch in Victoria last year has spoken out for the first time, sharing what has kept him going through the tragedy. </p> <p>Pastor Ian Wilkinson, 70, was hospitalised for ingesting the poison, which claimed the lives of his wife Heather, his brother Don and his sister-in-law Gail, after attending lunch at Erin Patterson's home on July 29th 2023. </p> <p>Ms Patterson has since been charged with three counts of murder and five of attempted murder after inviting her ex-husband’s family over to her home for lunch and allegedly serving them the poisoned dish.</p> <p>Six months on, Ian Wilkinson addressed his congregation as he returned to the Korumburra Baptist Church on Sunday for the first time since the alleged poisoning, saying it had been a “big week” full of milestones for him.</p> <p>“At the start of the week it was six months since Heather, Gail and Don went to be with the Lord …” he told the congregation.</p> <p>“Friday was my birthday and yesterday was our 45th wedding anniversary."</p> <p>“So it’s been a pretty big week but I am grateful for all that God has given me, God has done through me.”</p> <p>The week prior marked 25 years since he first took on the role of pastor of the Korumburra parish, with the parishioners offering him a small gift following the sermon.</p> <p>Mr Wilkinson seemed overcome with emotion during parts his sermon, sharing with the congregation that he was grateful to be back after a terrifying two-month stint in the hospital while he fought for his life after the poisoning. </p> <p>“The ways are sometimes hard but God is good. He’s with us,” he said.</p> <p>“He promised to never leave … and I can say, that is true.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Supplied</em></p>

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Past charges against mushroom poisoning suspect uncovered

<p>Erin Patterson, the woman under investigation for allegedly cooking the deadly mushroom meal that claimed the lives of three people, has previously faced a series of charges after being involved in a drunk-driving incident.</p> <p>According to reports from The Australian, the 49-year-old was convicted in 2004 of driving drunk in an unregistered vehicle. </p> <p>Court records have revealed that Patterson, who was then known as Erin Trudi Scutter and was aged 29, faced legal consequences for her reckless actions, losing her license for 30 months after crashing her vehicle in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne while heavily intoxicated.</p> <p>The reports revealed that after the crash, she fled from authorities by speeding away from the crash scene, reaching 95 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.</p> <p>The convictions that were handed down were for charges of failing to stop a vehicle after an accident, failing to provide identifying information after causing property damage, using an unregistered vehicle on a highway, failing to provide information after property damage, and driving at 95 km/h in a restricted 60 km/h zone.</p> <p>At the time of the crash, Erin's blood alcohol level was 0.14 per cent, indicating significant impairment, however the charges of drink driving were dropped, potentially due to overlapping elements in other charges.</p> <p>Patterson has yet to comment on the previous charges, after being advised by her lawyer not to make any public comments as she remains under investigation for the deadly mushroom meal. </p> <p>She has <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/details-of-erin-patterson-s-police-statement-around-fatal-mushroom-meal-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">denied any wrongdoing</a> in the mushroom incident, although according to police, they are investigating Patterson because she was the only adult among five who did not either die or suffer severe illness after ingesting the deadly mushrooms.</p> <p><em>Image credits: A Current Affair</em></p>

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New details emerge in fatal mushroom poisoning incident

<p>The former spouse of the Victorian woman responsible for preparing a meal for three individuals who tragically passed away, was placed in a medically induced coma last year following an unexpected severe digestive ailment.</p> <p>The revelation surfaces as <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/forensic-tests-on-food-dehydrator-found-at-tip-after-mushroom-deaths-20230808-p5dusv.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Age Newspaper reports</a> that law enforcement have carried out forensic testing on a dehydrator found at a waste disposal site near Erin Patterson's home in Leongatha, southeast of Melbourne.</p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Investigators are now exploring whether this apparatus was utilised to preserve the mushrooms before being discarded.</span></p> <p>The Age has additionally gained access to Erin's ex-husband Simon's social media posts, in which he recounts a mysterious severe gastrointestinal illness that nearly claimed his life.</p> <p>"I collapsed at home and subsequently spent 16 days in an induced coma, undergoing three emergency surgeries mainly targeting my small intestine, along with another planned surgical procedure," he wrote. "My family was summoned twice to bid me farewell as my chances of survival were minimal."</p> <p>Within the same social media post, he extended gratitude to Ms. Patterson for her support. Despite their separation, the two maintain an amicable relationship.</p> <p>Patterson, aged 48, cooked the fateful lunch which law enforcement suspect might have contained death cap mushrooms.</p> <p>The mother of two is now under police scrutiny after the demise of her ex-husband Simon Patterson's parents, Gail and Don Patterson, as well as Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson.</p> <p>Heather's husband, Ian, is currently in critical condition at Melbourne's Austin Hospital and is awaiting a liver transplant.</p> <p>All four individuals exhibited symptoms consistent with death cap mushroom poisoning following the lunch, which occurred on July 29.</p> <p>Ms Patterson has consistently <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/i-didn-t-do-anything-i-love-them-woman-who-cooked-meal-with-deadly-mushrooms-speaks-out" target="_blank" rel="noopener">maintained her innocence</a>, expressing that she held strong affection for her in-laws, particularly considering Gail's role as a motherly figure. Police have also characterised the case as intricate and potentially devoid of malicious intent.</p> <p>Death cap mushrooms possess the potential to cause grave damage to the liver and kidneys, leading to fatality. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort vomiting, and nausea, yet much of the harm can transpire before symptoms surface.</p> <p>Ms Patterson herself remained unaffected by the luncheon she organised, and her two children have been taken into protective custody as a preventive measure, according to police statements.</p> <p>Detective Inspector Dean Thomas of the Homicide Squad indicated that authorities are yet to determine whether they are dealing with a potential crime or an unfortunate accident.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook / A Current Affair</em></p>

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"I didn't do anything. I love them": Woman who cooked meal with deadly mushrooms speaks out

<p>A Victorian woman who cooked the meal that resulted in the suspected mushroom poisoning,  which left three elderly family members dead and one fighting for his life has tearfully broken her silence. </p> <p>Erin Patterson, 48, served the lunch to four people at Leongatha on July 29, including her former in-laws Don and Gail Patterson, who after falling sick later that evening, passed away from symptoms consistent with death cap mushroom poisoning.  </p> <p>Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson also passed away, with Heather’s husband, Ian in a critical condition at Melbourne’s Austin Hospital after suffering from the suspected poisoning. </p> <p>"I didn't do anything. I love them," Erin told  <em>A Current Affair. </em></p> <p>A clearly distraught Erin confused Don for Ian, who is currently being treated for his symptoms. </p> <p>"I'm devastated that they're gone and I hope with every fibre of my being that Don pulls through."</p> <p>“I’m so devastated by what’s happened, by the loss of Don, Don is still in hospital, by the loss of Ian and Heather and Gail," she repeated. </p> <p>“They were some of the best people I’ve ever met.</p> <p>“Gail was like the mum I didn’t have because my mum passed away four years ago, Gail had never been anything but good and kind to me,” she added.</p> <p>“Ian and Heather were some of the best people I’d ever met. They never did anything wrong to me.</p> <p>“I’m so devastated about what’s happened and the loss to the community and to the families and to my own children. They've lost their grandmother," she said, and added that she felt "so sorry" that they lost their lives.</p> <p>Erin was interviewed by police and later on released. Officials had also removed her two children from her care as a “precaution”. </p> <p>Homicide Squad Detective Inspector Dean Thomas also added that police are still determining whether this was an accident or a crime. </p> <p>“We’re working to determine what has gone on, to see if there is any nefarious activity that has occurred or if it was accidental.”</p> <p>“We have to keep an open mind,” he said.</p> <p>Police were also still unsure where the mushrooms were sourced from, and that it was a "complex case". </p> <p><em>Image: A Current Affair</em></p>

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6 things a food poisoning expert would never eat

<p>If you want to know how to avoid food poisoning, you better listen to food poisoning expert and lawyer Bill Marler.</p> <p>He’s a products liability and personal injury attorney specialising in food-borne illnesses as well as the managing partner of Marler Clark, dubbed “The Food Safety Law Firm”. With twenty years in the industry, he’s won more than $600 million in compensation claims for his clients since 1998.</p> <p>In an article posted in the <a href="http://www.foodpoisonjournal.com/food-poisoning-information/six-foods-bill-marler-never-eats/#.VrJ3Kvl96uV" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Food Poisoning Journal</em></span></strong></a>, Bill has revealed the six foods he refused to eat.</p> <p><strong>Unpasteurised (“raw”) milk and packaged juices</strong></p> <p>Unpasteurised milk, sometimes called “raw” milk, can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses and parasites. Between 1998 and 2011, there were 148 food poisoning outbreaks linked to raw milk and raw milk products in the US—and keep in mind that comparatively few people in the country ever consume these products, so 148 outbreaks is nothing to ignore. As for unpasteurised packaged juices, one of Marler’s earliest cases was the 1996 E. coli outbreak from unpasteurised Odwalla apple juice. As a result, he won’t go near raw milk or juice. “There’s no benefit big enough to take away the risk of drinking products that can be made safe by pasteurisation,” he says.</p> <p><strong>Raw sprouts</strong></p> <p>Uncooked and lightly cooked sprouts have been linked to more than 30 bacterial outbreaks (mostly of salmonella and E. coli) in the US since mid-1990s. As recently as 2014, salmonella from bean sprouts sent 19 people to the hospital. All types of sprouts - including alfalfa, mung bean, clover and radish sprouts - can spread infection, which is caused by bacterial contamination of their seeds. “There have been too many outbreaks to not pay attention to the risk of sprout contamination,” Marler says. “Those are products that I just don’t eat at all.” He did add that he does eat them if they’re cooked.</p> <p><strong>Meat that isn’t well-done</strong></p> <p>Marler orders his burgers well-done. “The reason ground products are more problematic and need to be cooked more thoroughly is that any bacteria that’s on the surface of the meat can be ground inside of it,” Marler says. “If it’s not cooked thoroughly to 160°F throughout, it can cause poisoning by E. coli and salmonella and other bacterial illnesses.” As for steaks, needle tenderising - a common restaurant practice in which the steak is pierced with needles or sliced with knives to break down the muscle fibres and make it more tender - can also transfer bugs from the surface to the interior of the meat. If a restaurant does this (Marler asks), he orders his steak well-done. If the restaurant doesn’t, he’ll opt for medium-well.</p> <p><strong>Prewashed or precut fruits and vegetables</strong></p> <p>“I avoid these like the plague,” Marler says. Why? The more a food is handled and processed, the more likely it is to become tainted. “We’ve gotten so used to the convenience of mass-produced food - bagged salad and boxed salads and precut this and precut that,” Marler says. “Convenience is great but sometimes I think it isn’t worth the risk.” He buys unwashed, uncut produce in small amounts and eats it within three to four days to reduce the risk for listeria, a deadly bug that grows at refrigerator temps.</p> <p><strong>Raw or undercooked eggs</strong></p> <p>You may remember the salmonella epidemic of the 1980s and early ’90s that was linked mainly to eggs. If you swore off raw eggs back then, you might as well stick with it. The most recent salmonella outbreak from eggs, in 2010, caused roughly 2,000 reported cases of illness. “I think the risk of egg contamination is much lower today than it was 20 years ago for salmonella, but I still eat my eggs well-cooked,” Marler says.</p> <p><strong>Raw oysters and other raw shellfish</strong></p> <p>Marler says that raw shellfish - especially oysters - have been causing more foodborne illness lately. He links this to warming waters, which produce more microbial growth. “Oysters are filter feeders, so they pick up everything that’s in the water,” he explains. “If there’s bacteria in the water it’ll get into their system, and if you eat it you could have trouble. I’ve seen a lot more of that over the last five years than I saw in the last 20 years. It’s simply not worth the risk.”</p> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock</em></p>

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