Eumundi Voice Issue 113, 20 March 2025

EUMUNDI ROTARY CLUB

Natural burials

The question of what we want to happen after we “shuffle off this mortal coil” is sometimes a topic for discussion. History shows a wide range of choices: the fiery end of a Viking funeral ship or a carved marble sarcophagus for a wealthy Roman couple.

Recently, members of the Rotary Club of Eumundi visited the Eumundi Cemetery at the corner of Bunya Rd and Golden Rain Lane in North Arm, to learn about Natural Burials from Kym Normand from Cherish Funerals Nambour. Eumundi Cemetery, on behalf of Sunshine Coast Council cemeteries, is now the second cemetery in Qld to offer a special kind of non-traditional funeral choice. The other is at the Gold Coast cemetery.

Kym explained the philosophy: “A natural burial means you are returned to the earth in a manner as natural as possible. Instead of the traditional coffin, you can select a casket, coffin or shroud provided they are made of natural materials. For many, it’s seen as kinder to the environment.

“Apart from a small memorial plaque to mark the location, your plot will return to natural vegetation, and ultimately blend in with the allocated area, surrounded by large wellestablished, native plants and wildlife. Flowers may be part of the service, but only natural ones without containers.

“Site reservations are not available – a site can be purchased at the time of the burial. A council record is maintained.”

If you are planning end-of-life arrangements it’s best to talk through your wishes with your family members, so they understand the principles of Natural Burial and can address their expectations.

Details are available at t.ly/L5MQy.

Visitors are welcome at the Eumundi Cemetery during daylight hours. Eumundi Cemetery was established in 1891. The traditional section will prove to be of interest for the historical memorials, including names celebrated in Eumundi streets: Gridley, Templeton and Arundell. Look for the oldest person buried there – a grand lady of 99 years.

Visit: t.ly/iBczj. Ruth Hickey