28 November 2024 — From the moment our children are born, one of our strongest instincts is to protect them. As they grow older and begin exploring the world on their own, that instinct never disappears. Behind every journey is the quiet fear of receiving a phone call that could change a family’s life forever.
In recent days, the families of two young Australians received that devastating call.
Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, two best friends travelling together and exploring the world, had their lives tragically cut short. Their deaths have left their families and friends facing an unimaginable loss and have reminded Australians of the risks young people can encounter when travelling abroad.
No teenager should have their future taken from them. No parent should have to receive such a call.
We want our children to be curious. We want them to travel, discover new places and experience different cultures. But above all, we want them to be safe.
As Australia's Foreign Minister, one of my greatest responsibilities is helping Australians stay safe in a world where risks can sometimes be difficult to anticipate.
Australians are supported overseas by dedicated consular officials who assist citizens when they encounter serious difficulties. We also have Smartraveller, the Australian Government's travel advice service, which provides information to help people prepare for risks before travelling overseas.
No traveller can anticipate every danger. But being informed and prepared can reduce the chances of tragedy.
The Hidden Danger of Methanol
One risk that deserves much greater attention is methanol poisoning.
Methanol is a highly toxic form of alcohol that can be found in counterfeit or poorly regulated alcoholic drinks. The danger exists in parts of the world where alcohol production and regulation may not meet the standards Australians are accustomed to.
Methanol can be present in locally produced spirits, mixed into cocktails or, in some cases, contained in drinks falsely presented as recognised brands.
The consequences can be fatal.
Symptoms of methanol poisoning can include headaches, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and problems with vision.
One of the dangers is that these symptoms can initially resemble an ordinary hangover. That can lead people to delay seeking medical attention.
That delay can have devastating consequences.
The safest approach is to understand the risks before travelling and know what to do if something goes wrong.
Travellers should know where the nearest hospital is and how they would get there in an emergency. If methanol poisoning is suspected, urgent medical attention is critical.
Stay Careful When Drinking Overseas
Young travellers should take particular care with cocktails and drinks containing spirits.
Drinking at reputable, licensed establishments can reduce risk, although travellers should remember that standards and enforcement vary between countries. Bottle labels and the apparent branding of alcohol should not always be assumed to guarantee authenticity.
Looking after friends is equally important.
If someone becomes seriously unwell after drinking, they should not simply be assumed to have a severe hangover. Symptoms such as vision problems, breathing difficulties, severe abdominal pain or unusual deterioration require urgent medical attention.
Preparing Before Travelling
There are many risks young Australians can face while travelling overseas, which is why Smartraveller should be one of the first resources they consult before leaving Australia.
Parents can also use the service as a starting point for conversations with their children about staying safe abroad.
Those conversations should not be about preventing young people from travelling or experiencing the world.
They should be about helping them make informed decisions.
Know the destination. Understand local risks. Have emergency contacts. Know where medical assistance is available. Stay connected with friends and family. And look after one another.
Working With Authorities Overseas
Australian officials are also working with authorities in Laos and Thailand following the deaths.
Australian authorities have offered assistance, including support from the Australian Federal Police in relation to the investigation in Laos.
In discussions with the Lao Foreign Minister, the Australian Government has stressed the importance of a thorough and transparent investigation.
Such an investigation is essential not only in seeking justice for those affected but also in helping prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Australian officials are also coordinating with representatives of other countries whose citizens have been affected, including Denmark, the United Kingdom and the United States.
That international cooperation will remain important as authorities work to establish what happened and ensure accountability.
A Message to Young Travellers
As the summer travel season approaches, thousands of Australians will head overseas to explore new countries and cultures.
They should not be discouraged from travelling.
But they should travel prepared.
The tragedy involving Bianca and Holly is a painful reminder that seemingly ordinary decisions can sometimes have extraordinary consequences.
Be adventurous, but stay vigilant. Watch your mates. Be careful about what you drink. Know the risks. Have a plan. And, above all, travel safely.
This article is adapted from an opinion piece originally published in The Herald Sun on 28 November 2024 by Australia's then Foreign Minister Penny Wong.
