Statement from the Beaumaris Football Club in regards to the passing today of Bianca Jones
It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of former Beaumaris Football Club junior Bianca Jones. Bianca’s brave fight ended today in the loving embrace of family in Thailand.
The Beaumaris Football Club extends its deepest sympathy to Michelle and Mark Jones and their extended family at this traumatic time.
Our football community has been built upon the values of togetherness, care, compassion, and mateship. In this dark hour we come together to remember and grieve for a fellow Shark - a young girl Bianca taken too soon, but who will be forever in our hearts.
Bianca was a much-loved player during her time playing for the Sharks. Bianca joined the Sharks in 2021 in our evolving girls Under 16’s and continued into 2022 where she was an integral part of the premiership winning BFC U18s Girls team. Relatively new to footy, but keen to follow in Dad Mark’s footsteps, Bianca’s main attributes were her speed and agility. More importantly, she quickly bonded with her teammates due to her spirited efforts to improve herself as a player and her vivacious sparkling personality that lifted the team on cold training nights and matchday.
Bianca’s infectious charm and tenacity made her a fondly regarded teammate and friend. Her smile, exuberance and happy nature made her a delight to be around.
The Jones and Bowles families take great comfort from the overwhelming amount of Club and Australia wide support there has been for Bianca and Holly. We will shortly announce a GoFundMe assistance program for the families of both girls. Whilst we have all felt largely helpless here in Australia, wouldn’t it be special if the Aussie spirit can at least relieve the families of the financial burden this situation has caused both families.
VALE BIANCA
Bianca’s fellow premiership player teammate, bestie and travel companion Holly Bowles is still fighting for her life. We continue to send all the positive Shark energy we can muster to Holly, Shaun and Sam Bowles as Holly continues her valiant fight.
We remind everyone:
• Our Club Chaplain, Rev. David Steerey has offered his counselling services should individuals or groups be interested. He can be contacted on 0402 837 726 or via email david@beaumarisbaptist.org.au
• Club Psychologist, Jo Ryan has offered counselling to anyone who feels the need. This can be on an individual basis or in small groups. Please contact Jo directly if you require additional support: 0409 183 677 joryanbarefoot@bigpond.com
• Additionally, the Victorian Amateur Football Association ( VAFA ) Player Assistance Program provides all current registered VAFA players with access to free counselling services with a qualified practitioner through their program provider, Converge International. https://convergeinternational.com.au/ Through the Player Assistance Program, current VAFA Players will be able to access up to three (3) counselling sessions delivered by a qualified practitioner. To access this service, please click on the link https://www.vafa.com.au/club.../player-assistance-program/
Please everyone stick tight and let me know if there is anything I or the Club can do for you.
Once a Shark, Always a Shark.
Fins up,
Nick Heath
President
Beaumaris Football Club
Note:
Beaumaris Football Club contact details:
Nick Heath, Club President – 0413 333 452
Walter Tedde, Club Secretary – 0416 101 563
Peter Caswell, Communications Manager – 0418 387 406