The Beaumaris Football Club extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Sam & Shaun Bowles on the sad and devastating loss of their beloved daughter, Holly.
This news comes only 24 hours after the passing of Holly’s travelling companion and dear friend, Bianca Jones. Bianca’s parents Michelle & Mark continue to be in our prayers and thoughts.
It was somewhat poignant that news of Holly’s passing came to light as our Senior playing group united in solidarity for both girls last night. As a club, we were heartened to be altogether when the news came through and by the countless messages of support we have received from so many. The Bowles and Jones families appreciate the overwhelming outpouring of love they have received, in this their darkest hour.
Thank-you to Zoe Daniel MP for her attendance last night and the work and assistance that her team is providing for both families. Similarly, the Albanese government and the Department of Foreign Affairs have also been an immense help and support to both families.
The Beaumaris Football Club and our local community is a tight knit one and we will all continue to feel this loss for some time to come. Two beautiful people lost, both with so much potential, leaves us numb.
During this time of profound sorrow, let’s all keep checking in on each other, particularly on the many friends and teammates of Holly & Bianca.
The Beaumaris Football Club will continue to honour Holly and Bianca by upholding our values of togetherness, care, compassion and mateship. Their impact on all of us will forever be remembered with a deep sense of gratitude, primarily due of their generosity of spirit and their innate ability to unite and care for people.
As a sign of solidarity and unity, and in memory of both Holly and Bianca our Women’s Team have started tying blue & yellow ribbons in and around their homes and throughout our community. Everyone in our community is invited to do the same. Holly and Bianca’s 2022 premiership flag is at half-mast at the Club. Holly’s number 32 jumper will be retired as a mark of respect until further notice.
As previously communicated, our Club Chaplain, Reverend David Steerey, who spoke beautifully to our playing group last night, is on call with his counselling services should individuals or groups be interested anytime. He can be contacted on 0402 837 726 or via email david@beaumarisbaptist.org.au
Psychologist, Jo Ryan is offering counselling. 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
The 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. 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 Player Assistance Program - VAFA
The Bayside City Council is also offering free counselling through their Wellbeing Co-ordinator, Josh. Please contact Josh on 9599 4444
Once a Shark, Always a Shark.
Nick Heath
President
Beaumaris Football Club