363600 ACCA News - Summer 2025 FINAL2

Bronze Sleepers

Elevating Memorial Landscapes with Bronze Sleepers. An elegant and space-conscious solution for modern cemeteries.

As cemeteries continue to evolve in response to the diverse needs of today’s families, innovative forms of memorialisation are shaping more sustainable and meaningful landscapes. Among these, bronze sleepers offer a refined, above-ground option that balances design, functionality, and reverence.

Designed by a Melbourne sculptural artist and manufactured at our Dandenong South plant, each bronze sleeper reflects the strength and artistry of Australian craftsmanship. These vertical memorials are cast in bronze — renowned for its resilience and timeless appeal — and will develop a natural patina over time, requiring minimal maintenance while offering enduring value and beauty.

Bronze sleepers are ideal for enhancing garden areas where traditional interment may be limited or impractical. By memorialising vertically, they help activate previously underutilised or peripheral spaces within cemetery gardens. Whether used as a discreet garden feature or as part of a dedicated section, sleepers enable cemeteries to maximise space while offering families above-ground options.

Personalised and Meaningful Designed for Lasting Impact

Custom bronze plaques are added to the sleepers and can include emblems, photo cameos, colour, and a surname plate can be added to the side offering families a meaningful tribute tailored to their loved one and family.

For cemetery operators, bronze sleepers represent an opportunity to offer an elegant, enduring memorial choice that complements the natural landscape and responds to shifting interment trends. Their above-ground format aligns with contemporary preferences for cremation while reinforcing the cemetery’s role as a place of legacy, connection, and quiet reflection.

By incorporating thoughtfully designed elements like bronze sleepers, cemeteries can continue to honour the past while preparing for the future.

Ideal for garden borders and underutilised areas, bronze sleepers allow vertical memorialisation, enabling cemeteries to create more positions within existing landscapes. Whether integrated subtly or featured in new sections, they add value and beauty.

Available in three heights, each suited to single or family plots:

600mm - holds 2 sets of cremated remains 900mm - holds 3 sets of cremated remains 1200mm - holds 4 sets of cremated remains Versatile, Space-Conscious

Education: Building Skills, Supporting Wellbeing, and Strengthening Our Sector

Twenty Years of Light and Love: A New Chapter for the Children’s Remembrance Service at Bunurong Memorial Park

Fu Shou Yuan International Group Participates in the 36th ACCA Annual Conference

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2025 21

Founded December 1985

ACN 009 555 426

PRESIDENT

Dean Matthews

Geelong Cemeteries Trust

CEO

p: (03) 5249 3939

e: dm@gct.net.au

VICE PRESIDENT

Denise Ora

CEO, NSW Metropolitan Memorial Park

p: (02) 9661 5655

e: denise.ora@mmplm.com.au

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

Kristy Constantine

Chief Executive,

Bunbury Cemetery Board

p: (08) 9721 3191

e: ce@bcb.wa.gov.au

Michael Robertson

Adelaide Cemeteries Authority, CEO

p: (08) 8139 7400

e: michael.robertson@aca.sa.gov.au

Kerena McDonald

Coordinator Cemetery Services

Toowoomba Regional Council

p: (07) 4688 6686

e: kerena.mcdonald@tr.qld.gov.au

Debbie Hedger

Coordinator Cemetery Services Sunshine Coast Regional Council

p: (07) 5459 2300

e: debbie.hedger@sunshinecoast.qld. gov.au

ACCA SECRETARIAT

552 Victoria St, Wurundjeri Country, North Melbourne Victoria 3051

p: (03) 9969 7780

For information on advertising in ACCA News or to contribute content, please contact: Alison Ronaldson, Editor at: admin@accaweb.com.au

Unless expressly stated the views put forward in ACCA News are not necessarily the considered views or policy of the Association or the Publisher, nor is the Association or the Publisher responsible for the claims of its advertisers.

Graphic Design by Dean O’Brien, NEO

Published by ACCA Secretariat

Granite

Granite Walls

CORPORATE SPONSORS 2025

PAST PRESIDENTS HONOUR LIST

C Ashton Shirley (Dec)

October 1985 - June 1987

Graeme MacGill (Dec)

June 1987 - October 1987

Ian Roddick

October 1987 - October 1990

Kevin Crowden (Dec)

October 1990 - October 1993

David C Blake OAM

October 1993 - October 1997

Peter MacLean AM PSM JP

October 1997 - October 1999

Koos Adrichem

October 1999 - October 2001

Bruce Macumber

October 2001 - October 2003

James McKay

October 2003 - October 2005

Pieter den Boer

October 2005 - October 2007

Darryl Thomas OAM

October 2007 - October 2009

Brendan O’Connor

October 2009 - October 2010

Bryan Elliott

October 2010 - October 2012

Armen Mikaelian

October 2012 - October 2014

Peter O’Meara (Dec)

October 2014 - October 2016

Peter Deague

September 2016 - June 2017

Darryl Thomas OAM

June 2017 - October 2019

David Molloy

October 2019 - October 2022

Lauren Hardgrove

October 2022 - September 2025

AN UPDATE FROM THE PRESIDENT

It’s an honour to be selected as President of the Australasian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association (ACCA). I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to help guide our association at such an important and exciting time for our industry.

Firstly, I’d like to acknowledge and sincerely thank Lauren Hardgrove for her outstanding leadership and dedication as President. Lauren’s contribution has been significant, and she has helped strengthen ACCA’s position as a trusted and respected voice across the sector.

I’d like to warmly welcome Debbie Hedger and Kerena McDonald to their roles on the Board, it’s wonderful to see the mix of experience and fresh perspective coming together to continue driving ACCA forward. I would also like to extend my thanks to Steve Nobbs and Robert Moore for your service to the association during your time on the board and we wish you all the best in your future endeavours.

As we look ahead, my focus will be on building stronger connections with our State associations, ensuring that we continue to collaborate, listen, and learn from each other. Our strength lies in our unity, and I’m committed to fostering meaningful relationships across the country.

To our valued Sponsors and Members –thank you. Your ongoing support allows us to align our efforts, expand our reach, and continue delivering initiatives that make a real difference. We also look forward to continuing our collaboration with Funeral Directors and Industry Partners, ensuring that our messaging remains clear, consistent, and aligned.

Our sector thrives when we work together, and I believe one of ACCA’s greatest responsibilities is to act as both a connector and a catalyst for progress. Whether it’s facilitating conversations between regional and metropolitan operators, helping small teams access the same knowledge and training as larger organisations, or creating national dialogue around innovation and care standards, our role is to bridge the gaps that sometimes exist across geography, scale, and resources. By doing so, we create an inclusive, informed community that can respond to change with confidence and shared purpose.

The work ahead is about moving forward, embracing continuous improvement, and fostering a culture where we share ideas and learn from one another. This isn’t about disregarding the past – far from it. It’s about respecting what has come before while maintaining an industry mindset that never sits still; instead, one that carefully and respectfully makes today better than yesterday, and tomorrow better than today.

As our industry continues to evolve, we must also stay curious and open-minded—ready to adapt to new challenges, respond to emerging trends, and collectively shape the standards that will define the next generation of cemetery and crematoria services.

We’ll continue to focus on how we can standardise and simplify processes, strengthen our industry practices, and ensure our members see the value and relevance of belonging to ACCA. As the peak body for cemeteries and crematoria in Australia, we remain grounded in our purpose –Connection, Education, and Advocacy, and will build upon that foundation to deliver even greater impact.

These are truly exciting times, with much to be done. Whether it’s identifying better practice in areas such as pet interments, exploring how to harness new technologies, or capturing the opportunities emerging from the rapid growth of AI, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve.

For our members, there’s a wealth of ACCA resources available – from professional development courses and the Learning Hub to industry webinars, research, and networking opportunities – all designed to support your work and growth in this evolving environment.

I look forward to working with all of you as we continue to shape a strong, united, and forward-thinking future for our industry.

Dean Matthews ACCA President

AN UPDATE FROM THE CEO

What the CEO Has Been Up To: Strengthening Skills, Connections, and Collaboration Across Our Sector

The past few months have been an incredibly productive and rewarding period, offering the opportunity to strengthen relationships across our sector, support meaningful industry initiatives, and gain deeper insight into the challenges and achievements of our members. I’m pleased to share some highlights from recent travels, training engagements, and industry events.

Supporting Monument Safety and Training Development

Recently, I had the privilege of attending important Monument Safety Training held at Western Terrace Cemetery in Adelaide. This training was expertly delivered and provided valuable, practical insights into the work many of our teams undertake every day to manage risk and keep our community environments safe.

A sincere thank you to Sach Killam from Metropolitan Memorial Parks NSW and the Cemetery and Crematoria Association of South Australia for hosting this vital training. Their commitment to strengthening skills and consistency across our profession is commendable.

Monument safety remains an emerging area of focus for our sector, and ACCA is actively working on the development of a national Monument Safety and Inspection Course set to roll out in 2026. This will support cemetery teams of all sizes to access fit-for-purpose training, increase confidence in inspections, and ensure best-practice outcomes for public safety.

Queensland Member Visits

Over the past few months, I’ve also had the privilege of visiting a number of members throughout Queensland. These visits took me to cemetery teams across the Whitsundays, Bundaberg, Townsville, and Cairns.

Meeting these dedicated teams was both inspiring and eye-opening. Their commitment to serving their communities—often in challenging conditions—deserves recognition. Northern Queensland operators face a unique set of circumstances: high water tables, heavy rainfall, cyclonic weather, difficult soil conditions, and hot, humid working environments. Despite this, the professionalism and care shown by these teams is extraordinary.

A particular highlight was spending time with the staff at the Office of Australian War Graves in Townsville. Their responsibility covers an enormous geographical area across Northern and Western Queensland, and the work involved in maintaining war graves to the highest standards is immense. Their dedication ensures that all who served—and those who gave their lives for our country—continue to be honoured with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Community and Industry Engagement

Community education and industry connection have been central themes in recent months. I’ve been honoured to attend and speak at several events, including engagements with

Funerals Australia, the Higgins Funeral Expo hosted by the NFDA, and a vibrant community Death Expo in Toowoomba. Events like these offer valuable opportunities to promote the important work all of you do and to help demystify aspects of our sector for the public. At the Toowoomba event, it was especially meaningful to answer questions from community members who may never have felt comfortable asking them before.

In October, the ACCA team also attended the CCAV AGM at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. It was a valuable opportunity to engage with Victorian members, listen to emerging priorities, and contribute to conversations shaping the future direction of our sector.

These engagements also highlight a recurring truth: our sector functions best when cemeteries, crematoria, funeral directors, stonemasons, and suppliers work collaboratively. Many of the frustrations we see between different parts of the sector stem not from conflict, but from a lack of awareness or understanding of each other’s processes, pressures, and needs.

I strongly encourage all of you to take the opportunity—whenever you can—to build these relationships. Reach out to your local funeral directors, stonemasons, and other partners. Sit down together. Share your challenges and insights. Sometimes even a simple cup of tea can open the door to improved communication, stronger partnerships, and better outcomes for the communities we serve.

Ben Kelly Chief Executive Officer

ARROW BRONZE

EVOLVING WITH PURPOSE, LEADING WITH INTEGRITY.

For more than 80 years, Arrow Bronze has been synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and service in memorialisation across Australia and New Zealand.

As the industry evolves, so has Arrow Bronze - expanding its capabilities, investing in technology, and strengthening its commitment to sustainability. Today, the company stands proudly as the Platinum Sponsor of the Cemetery and Crematorium Association of Australia (ACCA), continuing its long tradition of supporting the sector while shaping the future of commemorative practice.

A Legacy of Quality, Reimagined for Today

Arrow Bronze’s foundations lie in exceptional craftsmanship and have grown into Australia’s most respected manufacturer of bronze memorial plaques and architectural commemorative products.

While the tools, technologies, and expectations have evolved, one principle remains constant: an uncompromising commitment to quality. Each plaque is cast with precision, producing the highest level of inscription sharpness in the industry.

In addition, Arrow Bronze’s patented Diamond Shield surface technology provides unmatched levels of durability and protection. This exclusive coating safeguards plaques against harsh environmental conditions, ensuring exceptional longevity and preserving the clarity and quality of each memorial for generations.

Sustainability at the Heart of Manufacturing

Arrow Bronze recognises its responsibility not only to our customers, families and communities but also to the environment. Recent years have seen substantial progress across sustainability initiatives company wide.

Arrow Bronze has implemented a closed loop recycling service, ensuring metal waste is responsibly reclaimed and reused. The company also refurbishes and restores existing plaques, giving memorials renewed life while significantly reducing material consumption.

Energy efficiency remains a major focus. Arrow Bronze has achieved a 35-40% reduction in gas usage and a 15-20% reduction in electricity consumption through targeted upgrades and process improvements. The installation of solar panels further supports renewable energy use and demonstrates a long-term commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Our next step toward sustainability is to capture and store surplus solar energy produced during the day, using battery technology, so it can be utilised when sunlight isn’t available.

These achievements reflect a forward-thinking approach, balancing the preservation of tradition with responsible and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Service Built on Empathy, Integrity, and Expertise

Arrow Bronze understands that memorialisation is deeply personal. Its dedicated Customer Care Team brings empathy, integrity, and expertise to every interaction, supporting customers with guidance that reflects the importance of each memorial.

To strengthen capability across the sector, Arrow Bronze offers face-to-face sales support and product training, ensuring our customers across the sector are equipped with the knowledge they need.

Digital tools also enhance customer experience. The Arrow Script online design portal allows customers to design plaques thoughtfully and collaboratively, while NetBase online tracking provides full visibility on dispatch. This integration of service and technology reinforces Arrow Bronze’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and care.

Expanding Capacity, Strengthening Delivery

Increasing demand across Australia, New Zealand, and International markets has driven significant investment in production expansion. This increased capability enables highly efficient lead times and improved responsiveness without compromising quality or craftsmanship.

Arrow Bronze also offers express manufacturing services for urgent requirements, ensuring our customers have flexible options when they are needed most.

With the ability to distribute worldwide, the company maintains a seamless, reliable supply chain - supporting communities wherever memorials are required.

A Future Built on Innovation and Care

The evolution of Arrow Bronze is grounded in its heritage yet shaped by the needs of our valued customers. Through advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, and sustainable practice, the company continues to lead the memorialisation sector with purpose and pride.

As the industry embraces new technologies and new ways of remembering, Arrow Bronze remains committed to delivering exceptional memorials - crafted with respect, supported with care, and made to endure generations.

ACCA MEMBERSHIP

CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIA, FUNERAL DIRECTORS, INDUSTRY CORPORATES AND BUSINESSES!

The Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association (ACCA) is a non-profit professional organisation that exists to provide leadership, professional services and development, communication and networking platforms to the cemetery and crematorium industry.

MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA

Full Membership:

Organisations that administer the affairs of a Cemetery and/or Crematorium in Australasia.

SUITED TO CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIA

Corporate Membership:

Shall be incorporated organisations or trading enterprises considered worthy of membership associated with the burial or cremation industry who satisfy the Board that one or all of their activities assist and complement the work of the association and/or other members.

SUITED TO INDUSTRY SUPPLIER COMPANIES

Affiliate Membership:

Shall be persons considered worthy of such classification associated with the burial, cremation or allied industry who are not otherwise qualified to become an associate fellow, associate member or corporate member of the association.

SUITED TO FUNERAL DIRECTORS

ACCA MERCHANDISE

How to Order

Please visit our webpage at accaweb.com.au/publications/resources to download the Order Forms and return to the Secretariat.

ACCA Brochures

The quality print brochures ACCA produces, offer cemeteries a way to inform their customers on the subjects of memorialisation and cremation in a take-home brochure. Our members find this extremely valuable in conveying to the public this sensitive, and sometimes complex information in the form of reading material that can be easily understood, allowing informed decisions to be made about the services available to them.

ACCA NEWS Complimentary to all Members

The ACCA News magazine is published 4 times per year, and is dedicated to the cemeteries and crematoria industry in Australasia. Via electronic distribution, the readership is estimated to be over 2,000 within Australia and also internationally. The only magazine in Australia dedicated to the Cemeteries and Crematoria industry, it also promotes the latest in innovation, safe work practices, industry equipment and also events designed to help communicate the message of memorialisation and comfort to our communities.

ACCA News Advertising

Advertising in this publication is the ultimate way to promote your business or services to the cemeteries and crematoria industry and to increase your exposure. If you are interested in advertising in the ACCA News please contact the Secretariat on (03) 9863 6914 or email: admin@accaweb.com.au

ACCA News Contributions

ACCA also uses its magazine to encourage members to contribute summaries of interesting events or information pertaining to our industry that you believe other members would find beneficial. Please feel free to forward your articles to us for consideration of inclusion in the ACCA News.

LIFE MEMBER HONOUR ROLL

Koos Adrichem

David Beames

David Lusby (Dec)

Peter Maclean AM

Tony O’Connor (Dec)

Greg Taylor (Dec)

John Campbell

Pieter Den Boer

Keith Joyce (Dec)

Karen Hinrichsen

Bruce Macumber

James Mckay

Lawrie Miller OAM

Brendan O'Connor

ARE YOU READY TO BECOME A MEMBER?

Darryl Thomas OAM

Armen Mikaelian

Bryan Elliott

David Molloy

Full Memberships, Corporate Memberships and Affiliate Memberships

Available. Contact the Secretariat today via emailing admin@accaweb. com.au

ACCA SECRETARIAT:

552 Victoria St, Wurundjeri Country, North Melbourne Victoria 3051

T: +61 3 9969 7780

E: admin@accaweb.com.au

W: accaweb.com.au

ACCA EDUCATION

BUILDING SKILLS, SUPPORTING WELLBEING, AND STRENGTHENING OUR SECTOR

As we look ahead to 2026, the Australasian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association (ACCA) is excited to announce a comprehensive program of workshops and self-paced courses designed to support and upskill professionals across the funeral, cemetery, and crematoria sectors.

Alongside a “Roadshow Workshops Series” where ACCA hits the road to provide members with the essential skills to navigate the challenges of grief work while maintaining resilience.

Whether you are a seasoned industry professional or new to the sector, our 2026 education calendar offers practical training, professional development, and opportunities to enhance wellbeing and resilience in emotionally demanding roles.

Roadshow Workshops: Face-to-Face Learning Across Australia

ACCA is introducing our immersive full-day Roadshow Workshops which is aiming to be delivered across the country including; Geelong, Perth, Bunbury, Southeast Melbourne, Queensland (North and South), and Tasmania and will focus on Psychological Wellbeing in the Workplace and Supporting Grieving Clients, providing funeral directors, cemetery staff, customer service representatives, and team members who regularly support grieving clients with essential skills to navigate grief work while maintaining resilience.

While our specialist Cemetery Grave Safety and Monumental Safety Courses will offer practical, hands-on learning in safe excavation, shoring, risk management, and monument safety for ground teams, supervisors, health and safety representatives, and contractors involved in cemetery operations.

Online Workshops and Professional Development

ACCA’s 2026 online workshops cover critical topics such as An Introduction to Grief –Induction Module for New Staff, Vicarious Trauma, Managing Challenging Behaviours, Supporting Grieving Clients, and Leadership in High-Stress Environments.

Delivered via Zoom, these workshops allow participants to learn from experts like psychologist Linda Russell without leaving their workplace, offering practical strategies to maintain wellbeing, manage conflict, and provide compassionate care.

Self-Paced Learning: Flexible and Accessible

For ongoing professional development, ACCA members can access a growing suite of selfpaced courses through the Learning Hub. Free courses include:

• An Introduction to Grief - Induction Module for New Staff: Self-Paced Course

• Understanding Professional Boundaries

Paid courses provide more advanced skills, including:

• Understanding Grief

• Understanding and Preventing Vicarious Trauma

• Leading Difficult Conversations

• Negotiation and Conflict Management

Plus much more.

Each course can be completed at your own pace and includes a certificate of completion.

Seamless Registration for All Courses

All registrations for online workshops, and self-paced courses are now completed via the ACCA Learning Hub on Moodle. If you require an account to be created please email us at admin@accaweb.com.au.

The ACCA education program ensures that all staff in the sector are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the unique challenges of their roles. From practical safety training to strategies for managing grief and trauma, 2026 offers opportunities for professional growth, personal wellbeing, and a stronger, more resilient sector.

Visit the ACCA Learning Hub at Course: ACCA Learning Hub | RAV to view the full 2026 education calendar and register for workshops and courses.

For registration and payment enquiries, contact admin@accaweb.com.au

COMPASSION AND CARE

RELATIONSHIPS AUSTRALIA VICTORIA’S COMMITMENT TO SECTOR WELLBEING

Relationships Australia Victoria (RAV) has had a highly effective year, focusing its expertise on supporting the psychological wellbeing and professional development of staff across the Australasian Cemeteries and Crematoria sector (ACCA). Through robust partnerships and bespoke training, RAV is proving an invaluable resource for ACCA members.

RAV’s Centre for Learning and Innovation has recently engaged members by facilitating a highly successful two-hour professional development session on Psychological Wellbeing in the Workplace at the recent ACCA National Conference in Sydney in September. This session was specifically tailored to provide both management and operational staff with practical, evidence-based strategies to foster mental health resilience — an essential consideration in a work environment that involves continuous exposure to grief and loss. The immediate and overwhelmingly positive response underscores the industry’s proactive commitment to the care and psychological well-being of its staff. As one member put it: “the session was highly engaging and interactive, and provided relevant tools to support my team”. This successful delivery clearly demonstrated RAV’s deep understanding of the unique psychological pressures faced by professionals within the death care sector.

Building on this momentum, RAV’s expertise was sought at the New Zealand Cemeteries and Crematoria Conference in Auckland. Donna Plavljanic, Senior Manager, Learning and Innovation, delivered the impactful Opening Industry Keynote, titled ‘Understanding and Preventing Vicarious Trauma When Working with Grieving Clients’. The address resonated strongly with conference delegates, providing critical, evidence-based tools and frameworks to recognise and manage the emotional burden inherent in their daily work. This reinforced the vital link between robust staff wellbeing and the delivery of compassionate, sustainable client service.

The strong partnership between RAV and ACCA continues to deliver value, not least through the ACCA Education Online Learning Hub. Developed collaboratively with RAV’s Centre for Learning and Innovation, this platform offers essential self-paced courses specifically designed for cemetery and crematoria professionals, covering key topics such as grief support, vicarious trauma, and skills to support grieving clients. ACCA encourages all members to access the Hub and utilise the valuable, self-paced courses already available to them. Looking forward, RAV is poised to expand its reach further with more customised training solutions across Australia and New Zealand in 2026. Their dedicated Learning and Innovation team can deliver a comprehensive program — covering areas like Managing Challenging Behaviours, Mental Health First Aid, Compassionate Customer Service, and traumainformed practice — all fully customised and tailored to meet your organisation’s specific needs and operations.

Relationships Australia Victoria is enthusiastic about the year ahead. They are currently finalising the launch of new workshop dates and developing new programs for 2026, ensuring the sector continues to benefit from leading professional development and critical wellbeing support. ACCA encourages all members to keep a close watch on the ACCA website, socials and subsequent newsletters for important announcements regarding these forthcoming opportunities. Watch this space!

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Memoria Quinrose

Combine scale with elegance and unlock revenue opportunities with the Memoria Quinrose. A new category in memorialisation, these five-sided, freestanding columbarium pillars are crafted for space efficiency.

2.4 metre, five-sided column

Holds 50 ash vessels

Designed for high-capacity placements in cemeteries

Granite exterior available in a curated selection of colours to suit regional and cultural preferences

Provision for bronze plaque personalisation

Patented, tamper-proof interment system with secure, never-fail closure

Low maintenance & lawn mower friendly

Installation consultation and advice available from Zinnia

Proudly engineered and manufactured in Australia

MEMBER NEWS

REIMAGINING THE CEMETERY AS A GARDEN

When I’m in the garden I feel like I can be me, like I don’t need to mask my emotions or perform in any way. It’s a place where it’s ok to grieve.

Flowers From Felix is the name of the garden that permeates out from the grave of my son Felix Jack Murray 2002-2019 in Purewa Cemetery in Auckland New Zealand. It now populates acres and acres of the old part of the cemetery and when you stand beside Felix there are flowers as far as you can see.

I began planting the graves around Felix as a way of making his place beautiful. The old part of the cemetery was sprayed and the graves were cracked and now out of the cracks is colour life and beauty. At the time the planting was just what I was doing, looking back it was a way to keep busy while I was with Felix, a kind of active grieving.

For the first year I planted largely by myself, when the flowers died I collected the seeds and gave them to my friends and family members asking them to please grow some flowers from Felix.

After a year of expanding and keeping the garden alive through the hot summer Alastair Crombie, Purewa Cemetery General Manager asked if I would like them to advertise

for volunteers to help me in the garden. For months we were sent donations from gardeners who had heard the story of the garden. They sent seeds, plants and even money to buy a particular flower for a family member resting in the cemetery that they weren’t able to visit.

There is now a team of volunteers who plant, weed and look after the older graves that aren’t being cared for. The visual impact is quite striking as you come into the area where we work. We have formed our own community and together we grow flowers for each other and for anyone who needs them for funerals, birthdays, even weddings. I meet the volunteers three times a week on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 10-12, it’s a very relaxed experience, people can choose what they want to do or I can give them a job. I encourage everyone who helps in the garden to take some flowers or seeds out into the world to help make it more beautiful and share a story of hope and survival of the worst kind of grief, of losing a child.

Purewa management have supported the garden project from the beginning with resources and gatherings and they benefit from the stories and goodwill generated as the old part of the cemetery is now a beautiful garden.

Transforming the graves and the cemetery into gardens is beneficial in so many ways. As well as creating a space for people to feel welcome to spend time, the plants have encouraged biodiversity and attract birds and insects that are important for our wellbeing and also act as carbon sinks thereby positively impacting the climate. The natural beauty attracts local people who use it for walking and cycling and you often see groups of people chatting and connecting in a space that feels calm and safe.

The garden attracts many different volunteers from school kids looking to complete their volunteer hours to retired people who no longer have a big garden of their own and also the bereaved. For the young people it allows them to reflect on those who have gone before them and that life isn’t forever and every day is a gift. For the elderly it gives them a sense of belonging and being part of a project and for the bereaved it gives them a place where their grief is understood.

Miriama Toms

GEELONG CEMETERIES TRUST

GEELONG CEMETERIES TRUST OPENS NEW BLUE TREE AT GISBORNE CEMETERY

Geelong Cemeteries Trust (GCT) has officially opened a second Blue Tree at Gisborne Cemetery, marking its continued commitment to supporting mental health awareness across the communities it serves.

The opening took place on Friday 10 October and coincided with National Paint a Tree Blue Day and World Mental Health Day. The sculptural tree forms part of the Blue Tree Project, a mental health awareness initiative which aims to spark difficult conversations and encourage people to speak up when battling mental health concerns.

Following the first Blue Tree installation at Geelong Memorial Park in 2023, this second location reflects GCT’s growing involvement in promoting community wellbeing and creating spaces that spark meaningful dialogue.

This year’s event at Gisborne Cemetery brought together representatives from Victorian cemetery trusts, along with Macedon Ranges Shire Mayor Councillor Dom Bonanno, who attended in support of raising awareness of mental health across the region.

Jeremy Wiggins, Deputy CEO of Live4Life, a health promotion charity empowering rural communities to improve youth mental health and reduce youth suicide, spoke movingly about the importance of mental health support.

Chair of Geelong Cemeteries Trust, John Mitchell, noted the significance of the initiative, saying “Having a tangible reminder of the importance of difficult conversations, seeking help, and supporting others with their mental health is very powerful.”

While a Blue Tree is often a dead tree painted by the community, the Gisborne installation

has been built and placed as an enduring symbol. “This is about bringing people together and caring for our community. The Blue Tree is a beacon of hope,” Mr Mitchell said.

Geelong Cemeteries Trust warmly welcomes all to visit both Blue Tree installations, spaces designed to encourage reflection, conversation, and connection in the ongoing effort to support mental health for all.

GEELONG CEMETERIES TRUST

GEELONG’S ANCESTRY STORIES

Ancestry Stories, a short video series created by Geelong Cemeteries Trust (GCT), shines a light on three extraordinary individuals whose lives helped shape the Geelong region as it is today: James Harrison, Mary De Garis and Charles Brownlow.

Filmed at several locations across Geelong, most prominently at Geelong Eastern Cemetery where all three rest, the series invites viewers to pause, reflect and rediscover the stories behind some of the region’s most enduring contributions to industry, medicine and sport. Just as importantly, it encourages people to explore their own family history, sparking curiosity about the stories resting within their own families and within our cemeteries.

Family members of the individuals along with local historians joined to share insights, memories and personal connections, bringing these stories to life in a way that feels intimate, grounded and deeply connected to place. The videos gently highlight the role cemeteries play as custodians of history and in preserving the narratives that underpin our shared heritage.

As GCT’s first major step into video storytelling, Ancestry Stories forms part of a broader commitment to awareness and education,

helping communities explore, understand and connect with not only their local history, but their own family history. Shared primarily on Facebook and Instagram, the series reached more than 223,000 people across Greater Geelong and Melbourne and led to more than 14,500 visits to GCT’s Family History Search tool. The response demonstrated how strongly the community values its past and how powerful it can be when history is made accessible and personal.

Each of the three stories offered something distinctive. James Harrison — journalist, inventor and founder of the Geelong Advertiser — was a pioneering force behind mechanical refrigeration, a breakthrough that began beside the Barwon River and went on to transform industries worldwide. “So many things he did have changed our world, and from right here in Geelong,” one historian shared with pride.

Dr Mary De Garis, the region’s first female doctor, inspired widespread admiration. After serving as Chief Medical Officer during the First World War, she returned home to transform women’s health services. As one historian noted, “She was as fearless in the delivery room as on the battlefield.” Viewers described her story as empowering, inspiring and long overdue for the recognition it deserves.

Charles Brownlow, a respected Geelong Football Club player and leader, embodied the values that continue to define the game today. Despite being told as a teenager he lacked the build for football, he went on to captain the Geelong Cats and inspire the creation of the Brownlow Medal, one of Australian sport’s most respected honours.

Beyond reach and engagement, one of the most meaningful outcomes of the campaign was the sense of personal discovery it sparked. Many community members shared how the videos encouraged them to explore the Family History Search Tool to uncover details about their own relatives. The appreciation was clear: people valued learning more about the place they live, and they valued being able to locate their own stories within it.

Ancestry Stories is only the beginning. With countless remarkable lives resting across our cemeteries, there are endless stories still to be told. The full series is available to watch on GCT’s website, or YouTube channel.

BENDIGO CEMETERY

BENDIGO CEMETERY HOSTS A WEDDING CELEBRATION

On a sunny and slightly misty June day, a wedding was held at Bendigo Cemetery’s recently reopened Chapel following extensive heritage preservation and renovation works.

While the happy couple did not have any family connection to the cemetery, the bride just liked the chapel. It often caught her eye as she regularly drove past and when she and her husband decided to get married, they contacted RPCV in the hope they could use it.

The Chapel, built in the latter part of the 1870’s, has undergone roof repairs, ceiling restoration, removal of salt deposits, entrance door and ceiling restorations, restoration of interior and exterior render, repointing, step repairs and reinstatement of the decorative render.

The Chapel was constructed from rock faced granite from nearby Harcourt in the Gothic revival style of the time. Externally the structure is noteworthy for its corner buttresses and central timber open belltower and internally for its roof trusses.

As well as being available to hire for special events and occasions, the Chapel is now open to visitors to Bendigo Cemetery for quiet contemplation.

BUNURONG MEMORIAL PARK

TWENTY YEARS OF LIGHT AND LOVE: A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE CHILDREN’S REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

On Sunday 7 December 2025, families will gather at Bunurong Memorial Park to mark the 20th anniversary of the Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust’s Children’s Remembrance Service. This tradition began as a small Christmas-themed gathering and has grown into one of SMCT’s most heartfelt annual gatherings.

First held at Springvale Botanical Cemetery, the service was created to support families grieving the loss of a child. Over time, it evolved into a large-scale community event, drawing hundreds of attendees each year.

From Festive Beginnings to Inclusive Traditions

The event became known for its festive touches, such as decorated trees, sweet treats for siblings, and memorial lanterns that families brought back year after year.

After a pause during COVID-19, the service returned with a renewed focus on inclusion and accessibility. Today, families place their memorial cards on a floral tribute wall rather than a tree, as the rituals of remembrance have become more universal.

Over the last decade, an increasing number of multicultural families have attended, creating an atmosphere of shared understanding and support. The goal is to make every family feel welcome, reflecting SMCT’s broader inclusion strategy of listening to communities and adapting traditions to stay relevant.

Last year marked the first time the service was held at Bunurong Memorial Park, with families embracing the peaceful indoor venue. This year, the event returns to the same location to celebrate its 20-year milestone. It is a testament to SMCT’s commitment to community engagement.

Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future

A highlight of the ceremony is the remembrance of the ‘Eternal Light’ star, named in honour of every child remembered since the first service in 2005. It symbolises the enduring love families carry, and the strength found in coming together.

Beyond the service, Bunurong Memorial Park is home to new community engagement initiatives, including the Butterfly Garden for early pregnancy and infant loss and the development of a new Islamic burial area. SMCT is committed to cultural inclusion and co-design. These initiatives show how small changes, guided by empathy and consultation, can create spaces that feel welcoming for all.

SMCT Chief Executive Ingrid Harvey said the service remains a cornerstone of the organisation’s commitment to community care:

“For twenty years, this service has offered families a place to grieve, remember and reconnect. It’s a space where love and loss are held with care, and where families know they are not alone.”

As the Children’s Remembrance Service enters its third decade, its legacy lives on through the rituals, memories, and community it has nurtured. It shows that community care and engagement grow and adapt to meet the needs of those we serve, ensuring traditions remain meaningful in a changing world.

OPENING DOORS

CARR VILLA MEMORIAL PARK OPEN DAY

Carr Villa Memorial Park, operated by the City of Launceston, held its annual Open Day on Saturday 8 November 2025, attracting strong community interest despite cold and windy conditions. More than 120 visitors participated in guided Chapel and Crematorium tours, with many more exploring the grounds and engaging with staff throughout the day.

The event, themed “Opening Doors, Opening Conversations,” aimed to build community understanding of cemetery and crematorium operations, encourage informed end-of-life planning, and continue the sector’s broader effort to demystify deathcare. Visitors were given rare behind-the-scenes access to cremation facilities, while staff provided insights into service processes, memorial options, and ongoing site care.

Local funeral directors supported the event with information stalls and staff on hand to answer questions from the community. The collaboration continues to strengthen community confidence in the region’s deathcare providers and highlighted the value of coordinated sector engagement.

Carr Villa Business Leader Eve Gibbons said the Open Day reflects the park’s commitment to transparency and community education.

“Open Days create an important space for conversation,” Eve Gibbons said. “They give families the chance to understand what happens behind the scenes and to make informed decisions about future planning.”

The initiative forms part of Carr Villa’s wider community engagement program, which includes remembrance services, educational tours, and participation in national awareness events such as Dying to Know Day.

With overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors and partners, Carr Villa Memorial Park plans to continue offering annual opportunities for the community to learn, reflect, and connect.

LOOKING FORWARD, GIVING BACK

REFLECTIONS FROM THE BEREAVEMENT PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT

It’s an honour to have been named the 2025 recipient of the Bereavement Professional Excellence Award, generously supported by Phoenix Foundry and the Australasian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association (ACCA).

I am truly grateful for this recognition and the opportunities it brings, not only for my own development, but to strengthen industry connections and knowledge sharing on a broader scale.

Why I Applied

The decision to apply wasn’t just about professional recognition. It was sparked by a deeper belief that we’re in a pivotal moment for the bereavement sector, where innovation, transparency, and community engagement are reshaping how we support people at life’s most difficult moments.

In my role as Business Leader at Carr Villa Memorial Park in Launceston, Tasmania, I had the privilege of leading the development and successful Council endorsement of our 50-year Masterplan. It was a project that required balancing long-term deathcare needs with complex environmental, cultural, and social considerations, and one that reinforced my belief in the value of forward-thinking leadership in our field.

This award presented an opportunity to reflect on that journey and to consider how lessons from my work could both benefit and be expanded by connection with others across the sector, locally and internationally.

A Glimpse Towards Canada

One of the most exciting aspects of this award is the opportunity to travel to Canada in 2026. I’m incredibly excited to visit and learn from Canadian professionals who are also navigating the evolving landscape of bereavement care. I see this as more than a study tour, it’s a chance to explore global perspectives, see how other communities honour memory and manage space, and bring home new ideas that can enhance how we serve the Australian public.

From cemetery design and environmental management, to customer service models, cultural engagement, and memorialisation trends, I’m eager to see where our common challenges overlap and where we might learn from one another’s innovation.

What I Hope to Share

While I’m looking forward to learning, I’m equally committed to giving back to the sector that has supported me. I believe in the importance of sharing knowledge, especially in a profession that deals with some of life’s most universal and deeply personal experiences.

This award is not just recognition, it’s a platform, one I intend to use to keep asking questions, strengthening networks, and helping shape a future where our sector is not only professionally strong, but deeply connected to the communities we serve.

Once again, thank you to Phoenix Foundry, ACCA, and the judging panel for this honour. I look forward to contributing in return.

Eve Gibbons

Carr Villa Memorial Park

FU SHOU YUAN

FU SHOU YUAN INTERNATIONAL GROUP PARTICIPATES IN THE 36TH ACCA

The 36th ACCA Annual Conference was held in Sydney, Australia from September 15 to 19. Wang Jisheng, Executive Director and President of Fu Shou Yuan International Group, led a 6-member delegation to attend the event.

This annual conference was themed “Together for a Shared Future: The Path of Cooperation in Death Care”. Over 20 experts and scholars from around the world were invited to deliver keynote speeches on a variety of topics, including the application of technology, digital operations, health management, customer experience, embalming techniques, life care, grief counseling, eco-friendly cremation technology, intelligent tools, and green burial practices. The speeches with diverse perspectives and rich content focused on the impact of future technological advancements on the industry.

At the invitation of ACCA, President Wang Jisheng delivered a keynote speech as an international guest speaker, elaborating on the essence of “preservation” in the death care industry. He emphasized that the combination

and refinement of the “3JI” elements— making marks beautiful, record thick and memorial long—can inspire the spiritual drive that propels the advancement of human civilization.

As a long-term supporter of ACCA, Fu Shou Yuan International Group has participated in ACCA events and annual conferences for many consecutive years since 2002, exchanging and learning advanced management practices in the death care industry. During the conference, President Wang Jisheng led a delegation to engage in discussions with the newly appointed ACCA President Dean Matthews and others, focusing on industry trends and organizations like Asia-Pacific Life Services Federation. President Wang Jisheng expressed his hope that both parties will continue to strengthen their friendship and enhance diversified exchanges with local death care providers to jointly promote the development of the death care industry.

Concurrent with the conference, the ACCA Funeral Expo was held, showcasing personalized innovative products and cuttingedge technological products, including ecofriendly materials, life education, technological memorialization, life care, memorial products,

design and planning, information systems, memorial services, and other funeral supplies. The delegation actively interacted with exhibitors, gaining a thorough understanding of the products’ performance in use, their promotion status, and staying updated on the latest industry trends.

In addition, the delegation visited Macarthur Memorial Park in Sydney, as well as Springvale Botanical Cemetery and Bunurong Memorial Park in Melbourne, where they learned about the park development concepts, product innovations, and humanized farewell services. The delegation also provided detailed insights into advanced domestic eco-friendly and landsaving burial products and digital applications. Australian counterparts expressed strong agreement with Fu Shou Yuan’s innovative death care concepts and expressed a desire for more in-depth discussions and exchanges with Fu Shou Yuan in the future, exploring a wider range of topics.

Fu Shou Yuan and ACCA exchange gifts

Wang Jisheng, President of Fu Shou Yuan International Group, delivered a keynote speech

Transform quiet or underutilised areas into serene sanctuaries with the slender Memoria Sentinel. These elegant, freestanding columbarium pillars represent a new category in memorialisation.

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ACCA BROCHURES

HAVE YOU GOT YOURS?

The quality-print brochures ACCA produces offer cemeteries a way to inform their customers of the subjects of memorial and cremation in a take-home brochure. Our members find this extremely valuable in conveying to members of the public this sensitive, and sometimes complex, information in the form of reading material that can be provided to customers, where they may absorb the information at home and make informed decisions about the services they wish to undertake.

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Cemeteries Asset Management Training

RELIANCE RISK

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS IN CEMETERIES: A DUTY OF CARE BEYOND THE GATES

Cemeteries are places of reverence, reflection, and community connection. Yet, behind their calm exterior lies a complex operational environment that demands a proactive approach to emergency preparedness.

Across Australia and New Zealand, cemetery operators are increasingly recognising that, like any other public venue, they carry a legal and moral duty of care to protect staff, contractors, and visitors under workplace health and safety legislation.

Planning for the Unexpected

Emergency management planning for cemeteries extends far beyond office buildings or chapel facilities. It encompasses entire sites that can span dozens of hectares. These vast landscapes present unique challenges: sprawling grounds, dispersed staff, limited visibility, and often, poor mobile phone coverage.

“Effective emergency communication in these environments can’t rely solely on mobile phones,” explains Wayne Middleton of Reliance Risk. “Cemeteries should consider layered communication systems, such as twoway radios, duress alarms, or even WhatsApp groups, to ensure staff can summon help quickly, no matter where they are on site.”

Because of the diverse range of daily activities, from burial preparation to grounds maintenance, administration, and visitor services, cemetery operations often run on staggered schedules. That means an

emergency management plan must be flexible enough to support varying staff rosters, differing functions, and changing site conditions.

Challenges in a Competitive Planning Environment

Australia’s emergency planning market is highly competitive, with many suppliers offering generic, template-based plans. While these off-the-shelf documents may tick compliance boxes, they rarely reflect the realities of individual sites.

“Every cemetery is different,” Wayne says. “A standard plan might be fine for a high-rise building, but it won’t cover the nuances of a heritage cemetery with open boundaries, heavy machinery, or weekend funeral services. Cemeteries need plans that are tailored, tested, and lived by their teams.”

To meet health and safety obligations, cemetery operators must also maintain an active emergency planning committee responsible for overseeing plan development, coordinating drills, and maintaining training records. This ongoing process helps demonstrate due diligence and ensures staff know what to do when the unexpected occurs.

Accountability and Control

One of the most practical steps toward improving emergency preparedness is establishing a clear check-in and check-out process for all personnel on site, including contractors and third parties. This ensures accountability and aids emergency responders in quickly confirming who is safe and who may still be at risk.

Wayne also advocates for a dynamic emergency control organisation (ECO) that adapts to changing schedules and site activities. “You might have different people on site every day, but someone must always be responsible for coordination and communication,” he says. A designated communications officer within the ECO should be tasked with documenting key moments during an incident, ensuring that information flow remains accurate and timely.

Medical Emergencies and First Aid

Medical incidents are among the most common emergencies in cemeteries, particularly during funerals, where emotions and health vulnerabilities can combine. Reliance Risk recommends that cemeteries train a high number of staff in first aid and CPR, including those directly involved in burial services.

The role of funeral directors also deserves clarity. While cemeteries are responsible for the safety of people on their premises, funeral directors have overlapping responsibilities to the families they serve. Clear agreements should define who provides first aid coverage and how emergency responses are coordinated during services.

Tailored, Tested, and Trusted

Ultimately, emergency management in cemeteries is not a “set and forget” exercise. Staffing levels, site conditions, and visitor patterns evolve, and so must the emergency plan. Cemetery managers should retain the ability to modify and test their plans as these factors change.

Reliance Risk’s consultants across Australia and New Zealand specialise in helping public venues, including cemeteries, achieve high levels of preparedness. Through tailored planning, needs assessment, resource development, and scenario-based training, the firm helps organisations build resilience where it matters most.

As Wayne puts it:

“A stock-standard plan might look neat on paper, but it won’t save lives. Sitting down with your emergency control organisation, discussing realistic scenarios, and practicing your response, that’s what builds true readiness.”

Wayne Middleton Reliance Risk

AFRM

MAKING LIFE INSURANCE CLAIMS EASY

Do your families know, they may be entitled to Life Insurance from their loved ones superannuation fund?

Most families don’t know that the deceased has unclaimed life insurance in their super fund (Cbus, Australian Super, QSuper, ART, GESB etc).

The availability of life insurance applies to all families where the deceased is of working age (under the age of 65).

Insurance industry research highlights that less than 40% of Australians are aware of their cover within their super.

When a loved one passes away, making arrangements to buy a plot, crypt or organise the cremation is emotionally challenging for families, and becomes more difficult if they are compromising, based on cost.

Being able to access the superannuation and life insurance of their loved one can therefore assist with alleviating some of these challenges.

The same life insurance and superannuation is available to families at pre-need, where the family is making arrangements for a terminally ill loved one (ie. their loved one has less than 24 months life expectancy).

Given families low awareness that the deceased or the ill loved one may have life insurance available in their super fund, the role of the Client Service Team at a memorial park is critical for families to understand this entitlement.

The Client Service Team can raise the topic with the family at the meeting, typically after discussing the fees, giving the family another option of payment, perhaps one they have not considered.

Bruno Muraca- CEO of AFRM Claims Advocacy, saids, “It gives us pleasure to be able to help a family afford the memorisation of their loved one, without having to compromise”. Typically, we are able to advise the family, how much superannuation and life insurance their loved one has available, within 8- 10 days of the family engaging us.”

Bruno and his team, can arrange a script and flyer for the Client Service Team to hand to the family, which compliments the family conversation.

A simple conversation and the handing out of a flyer by the Client Service Team can make a significant difference to a family who is seeking to make arrangements for their loved one, giving the family another reason to Thank and Recommend the memorial park.

Bruno Muraca AFRM Claims Advocacy

NATURAL BURIAL

A WAY OF KEEPING CEMETERIES RELEVANT?

“Both my parents would have had a natural burial but couldn’t because there wasn’t a natural burial ground locally, so they got cremated,” explains funeral director Rebecca Lyons.

The quote illustrates an interesting problem: by underestimating the market for eco-friendly interment, could cemeteries be inadvertently fuelling the rise of cremation and sacrificing their own market share?

The demand for what’s perceived as an ecological end-of-life option is clear. When I started researching my book in 2011, Australia had just a handful of natural burial locations. By 2020 there were 14 and, today, there are at least 28 cemeteries claiming to offer the service.

However, this rapid growth has exposed a critical flaw: Australia lacks a clear, consistent, and accepted definition of natural burial.

As more cemeteries and councils promote ‘natural’ or ‘bushland’ alternatives, the confusion around their actual offerings grows. Because each location defines the practice differently, consumers often don’t know what they’re truly buying.

The Natural Death Advocacy Network (NDAN) is working to combat this. Current NDAN President Rebecca Lyons, along with founder Dr. Pia Interlandi (who facilitated over 100 natural burials in the UK), has spent the last decade laying the groundwork for a bestpractice standard.

“We currently have two operational and two emerging natural burial grounds that abide by the NDAN Natural Burial code of conduct and uphold the NDAN standards: Geeveston Public Cemetery, Walawaani Way Conservation Burial, Alberton Cemetery Green Burial and Jagun Natural Burial Ground.”

Last year, NDAN attempted to build a national database detailing the standards of all natural burial grounds to enable informed consumer choice. Only a handful of the 28 cemeteries responded.

Rebecca suggests two reasons: “A - We didn’t get our approach right. And B - because I suspect there are some cemeteries who are not actually meeting the natural burial ethos and not using shallow depth burial.”

Here lies the fundamental practical and economic conflict. Burial depth by-laws and existing space restrictions can make a true natural burial offering impossible. Double or triple depth graves offer greater revenue and space efficiency than the single-depth requirements of true natural burial.

But Rebecca Lyons thinks cemetery operators have underestimated the demand and the potential for community building and engagement.

“One of my local councils (in Tasmania) had done eight burials in 12 months when they flagged the idea of starting a natural burial ground. They immediately had seven people wanting to buy plots.

“One of my clients put her voluntary assisted death on hold twice as she waited for her ‘perfect’ natural burial site to become available.”

These real-world anecdotes offer a glimpse of natural burial demand. How might your community respond if it had a natural burial option?

The key, Rebecca believes, is to build a compelling narrative through education. The concept of ‘a gift to the earth’ is a powerful and enticing message for the modern, engaged consumer. This is the same messaging that has made human composting successful in the USA.

“It’s an easy hook to bring people in,” said Rebecca. “You may not get the dollars from double or triple depth graves, but you are building a community who keeps your cemetery relevant because they want to be engaged, creating a cemetery that is a living and thriving space.

“Pest management, wedding, tree and wildflower planting days, flora and fauna surveys, talks, the creation of ceremony spaces, death cafes, All Souls Festivals – these sorts of engagement opportunities take place in natural burial grounds around the world,” she said.

“They give cemeteries an opportunity to remain relevant within your local community in these modern times.”

Could providing an authentic, accredited alternative allow cemeteries to capture some of the market share that is currently going straight to cremation?

Natural burial resources are available at ndan. com.au. The critical role of funeral directors in helping facilitate this shift is a column for another time.

Lisa Herbert is a journalist, cemetery tour operator, and author of ‘The Bottom Drawer Book: the after death action plan’, now in its fifth edition.

SCATTERING SAFARIS

CONTINUING THE JOURNEY BEYOND LIFE

My name is Gemma, and I’m the founder of Scattering Safaris in South Africa — a bespoke ash-scattering service operating across Southern Africa.

Our work is inspired by a deep respect for the land, its wildlife, and its people. We believe the African landscape is sacred — a place where peace, beauty, and nature meet and it’s within this setting that we help families honour their loved ones’ final wishes.

The idea for Scattering Safaris began long before it became a business. When my grandparents were cremated, their ashes were kept in urns for years before my mother felt ready to scatter them. I remember feeling uneasy knowing they were waiting to be set free. Over time, I heard many similar stories — families unsure what to do or how to begin and I realised there needed to be a compassionate, professional service to assist both the departed and those left behind.

Although our work begins after death, Scattering Safaris is, at its heart, about travel and continuity. We view each scattering as part of the soul’s journey — a chance to celebrate a life rather than mourn its end. That’s why we focus on celebrating life rather than dwelling in sorrow.

There are many reasons why ashes remain on mantelpieces for years: grief, guilt, family disagreements, or simply the practical difficulty of getting to a special place. Some families live

far from where they wish to scatter; others cannot travel or agree on how it should be done. We exist to ease that burden — to make the final act respectful, simple, and free of conflict.

Our clients include families living abroad, executors tasked with carrying out last wishes, and individuals who wish to pre-plan their own scattering. Some are South Africans who want to return home after death; others have never been here but feel drawn to Africa as their final resting place. We also work with terminally ill patients who wish to plan their farewell in advance, so their loved ones are not left uncertain.

Every location is carefully considered and approved according to ethical and environmental standards. We contribute a portion of each service to local conservation projects, reinforcing our commitment to protecting the wildlife and landscapes that make Africa so unique.

Each scattering is tailored to the person being honoured. Families may choose a specific place, season, or time of day; include a favourite poem, song, or colour theme; and request video footage or aerial filming. Once complete, we provide a digital certificate and, when relevant, a geo-tag so families can revisit the site online.

Our most requested destination is the African Bush, where scatterings often take place quietly in the presence of the Big Five — a truly humbling experience. We also offer services in the Drakensberg Mountains, along the Cape Coast, and other regions across South Africa.

From first contact, we guide families through the process — offering advice, support, and practical assistance to ensure every detail is handled properly. Each quarter, we embark on scatterings to maintain high standards of organisation and care.

For us, this is more than a service; it’s a calling. Scattering Safaris exists to ensure every farewell is dignified, meaningful, and rooted in the natural beauty of Africa — where every life can end as it began: in freedom.

Our next planned trip is from the Karoo Desert to the Knysna Forest via Cape Town in the Western Cape. We would be delighted to create a package for anyone wishing to have ashes scattered along the route.

For more information please go to https://www.scatteringsafaris.com/ or email Gemma De Luca @ gemscatteringsafaris@gmail.com

Gemma De Luca

Founder and Director, Scattering Safaris

When my mum passed away, I was left with her ashes in an urn. For over a year, they sat in the spare room cupboard, hidden away behind boxes and the bustle of daily life. Every time I noticed the urn, I felt a mix of guilt and sadness. I knew this wasn’t what my mum deserved. She was a warm, adventurous woman who had grown up in South Africa before settling in the UK, and being left in a cupboard did not reflect her life or spirit.

It wasn’t that I didn’t want to scatter her ashes — I simply didn’t know how to begin. Grief has a way of holding you back. Part of me worried that scattering her ashes myself would be too emotional, and part of me didn’t know how to create something meaningful from it.

Then, one afternoon while scrolling online, I came across Scattering Safaris, a service based in South Africa that helps families scatter ashes in places of natural beauty across Southern Africa. Their approach immediately struck me. This wasn’t a sombre funeral company focused on doves and black suits; it felt more like a travel company celebrating life, nature, and freedom. That positivity gave me hope.

From the first conversation with Gemma and her team, I felt reassured. They treated my mum’s story with such respect and listened carefully to my wishes. I wanted her to be released back into the land she loved, somewhere among the wild animals and open skies of South Africa. They suggested a beautiful private nature reserve where the Big Five roam freely.

Because I couldn’t travel to South Africa myself, Scattering Safaris arranged everything on my behalf. They handled the process with dignity and care, while also offering touches that made it deeply personal. I received a video of the scattering, set to my mum’s favourite song,

Morning Has Broken. Watching that moment, hearing the music, and seeing her ashes released into the African bush was incredibly moving. They also provided a geo-tag so I can always know the exact spot where she rests. It felt like a gift — something tangible I could hold onto while knowing she was exactly where she should be.

For me, choosing Scattering Safaris honoured my mum’s life and gave me closure. Instead of remembering her in a cupboard, I now think of her beneath the wide African sky, surrounded by wildlife and the beauty of the land she once called home.

It truly was the farewell she deserved.

Bronwyn, Cleadon Village

XYST

IS CEMETERY MANAGEMENT BECOMING A CHALLENGE FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES IN 2025?

Over the past three years as a consultant, I’ve had the unique opportunity to dive deep into the operations of several organisations.

This unique perspective has revealed not only the details of their day-to-day challenges but also how they’re preparing for the future. Here’s another surprise: in the last 50 years, few councils have needed to purchase new land for cemeteries or plan acquisitions through the Crown Lands Acquisition Act. Is this a sign of exceptional foresight—thoughtful planning that ensured enough space for generations to come or just good luck Historically, cemeteries were placed on the outskirts of communities, occupying vast stretches of land. But as populations have boomed and birth rates surged after the late 1940s, those once-distant burial grounds have been enveloped by burgeoning towns and cities. Today, local governments face the dual challenge of managing limited cemetery space while accommodating a steady rise in interments—an issue that’s only becoming more critical as our communities continue to expand. There are other challenges in managing cemeteries owned by local governments. These include the quality of service provided, meeting community expectations, operating costs, fees and charges, organisational processes, policies, aging infrastructure, large asset base that you don’t own (headstones) and outdated laws.

Over the last three years across New Zealand and Australia, I have noticed an interesting trend; more so in the rural based cemeteries, that a significant amount of those that die in the region don’t always opt to be interred in their local cemetery. Is it the cost of interment? Is it the options they are provided? Or is it just we don’t provide a welcoming environment in our smaller rural cemeteries that make our community feel unwelcome. We can’t know the answers for certain since it’s impossible to ask the deceased. However, by examining local mortality and interment rates and comparing them with land capacity and interment rates, we can start to forecast future trends over the next three to five years.

While undertaking capacity reviews; one in Australia and another in New Zealand, both had a similar stories. A mortality rate of approximately 5.9% (to be expected), and a general trend toward ash interment (67%) compared to body interments (33%). This is consistent with reported nationals trends, with councils ranging from 60% to 75% for ashes and 25% to 40% for body interments in rural cemeteries. Yet the disturbing factor was the mortality gap and the total interments throughout the district of 42% to 59%. It is assumed this gap indicates that the majority of the residents prefer to be buried outside of the region, or ashes are held at home or scattered. The findings indicated that there exists a culture of scattering ashes in a designated area within the districts, or alternatively, ashes are retained at home, presumably due to the costs associated of a burial.

The other relevant question we should ponder is if we are providing the right space to memorialise our loved ones that is both affordable and representative of our community’s needs. Perhaps that is a question for another article.

What should we be doing? Develop a Cemeteries Strategy that encompasses the past, present and the future? Most people would go “oh that’s just another document or it’s part of our overall open spaces or community services strategy”. I find this sort of response paradoxical. Cemeteries must honour the past, manage current operations, and plan for future needs. A clear, specific strategy ensures this journey is well-defined.

A successful strategy begins by defining a clear vision and core values that extend a hand to the future. This is about creating a sustainable framework that ensures the cemetery remains a relevant, cherished part of the community for generations to come, including but not limited to trends, levels of service, operation service levels, interment provisions, cemetery asset provision and the all important action plan.

Trends

Let’s explore how developing an effective strategy involves understanding both national

and local trends. By evaluating these, we can spot shifts in patterns that might impact your cemetery, much like how councils review local trends influenced by cultural or social demographics. For example, here’s a glimpse of a national trend that could influence your operations.

As in many Western countries, cremation in Australia has eclipsed burials as the preferred method of disposition, accounting for twothirds of deaths (van der Lann and Moerman, 2017). This is consistent with our Funeral Beliefs and Values Study which shows that 2 in 3 (63%) people who have arranged a funeral for a loved one, chose a cremation. (Australian funeral industry state of the nation 2021).

Those who indicated a willingness to be cremated were asked what they would like to happen to their ashes. The most popular answers were to be scattered in nature (27%) or in a personally meaningful location (26%), followed by scattered at sea (26%) or distributed amongst loved ones (21%). Only one-fifth of these respondents (20%) wished to be interred in a cemetery or columbarium. (The Future Cemetery Survey 2020, University of Melbourne).

Level of Service

Levels of service create a unique opportunity for diverse asset groups and disciplines within an organisation to unite. Together, they can develop a shared vision of what the organisation strives to achieve through its cemetery network, outlining both current offerings and future ambitions.

Operational Service levels

Developing operational service levels is essential for effective cemetery management. Relying on park service standards alone may not adequately address the unique requirements of cemetery operations. The operational service levels for each cemetery are thoughtfully outlined to serve as a clear roadmap for achieving the high-quality outcomes we aspire to. This guidance not only ensures excellence in our cemetery services but also empowers the Council to successfully meet its financial goals.

Interment Service Provision

Effective prioritisation of upgrades and maintenance in our cemeteries begins with categorising interment service options. By understanding these options, we can better identify assets and set realistic maintenance expectations. Using these service categories as a guiding framework ensures our master planning, development, and ongoing maintenance truly meet the community’s needs, providing clear and consistent interment options for everyone we serve.

Cemetery Asset Provision

Cemetery asset management emphasises the essential assets that each service level utilises to enhance its offerings, thereby creating a vibrant space that accurately reflects the community’s needs and enriches the surrounding area. These assets, which include capital fixed assets and green infrastructure, transform the cemetery into a tranquil sanctuary of ecological beauty and peaceful retreat. All plans are aligned with renewals or maintenance interventions in accordance with your cemetery asset management plan.

Action Plan

The Action Plan outlined below provides a comprehensive and detailed strategy for the effective planning, management, and operation of cemeteries within the Whitsundays Region. It emphasises the

importance of integrating sustainable practices, community engagement, and efficient resource utilization, all while aligning with the region’s overarching principles and vision for respectful and environmentally responsible cemetery services. The plan also highlights key initiatives for improving accessibility, maintaining historical sites, and ensuring that cemetery facilities meet the needs of current and future generations in the region.

Effective action plan management encompasses risk management, which entails clearly delineating responsibilities and establishing timelines for each action. This methodology not only offers immediate clarity but also establishes a solid foundation for longterm success and confidence.

In Summary

Everything we need to answer often revolves around having the right strategic management frameworks in place. These frameworks simplify the process of determining our cost structures and justify our cost recovery requirements, all while meeting our communities’ expectations. However, this can be challenging, especially when there isn’t a specific framework tailored for cemetery operations.

When we consider all this information, the future direction for your cemetery becomes

clearer when supported by a concise, collaboratively developed strategic framework, aligned with your organisation’s strategic goals. Over the years, I’ve observed that such clarity enhances decision-making and provides a shared sense of purpose for each cemetery, ensuring they effectively meet community needs.

Yet, the cemetery landscape is constantly evolving. New technologies and changing community desires can blur the lines of the future, shaping the expectations local governments must address. Staying adaptable and maintaining a strategic focus, is essential to navigating these shifts and ensuring sustainable, community-focused cemetery operations.

Karl Nesbitt Xyst Ltd.

Graph 1: Mortality rates and interment trends in Kāpiti Coast District identifying the gap between mortality and interment

ELEVATING THE HOME

ELEVATING THE HOME MEMORIAL: A SOLUTION FOR PERSONALISED CREMATION CHOICES

For generations, families have relied on traditional choices like inurnment in a cemetery or memorial park to establish a dedicated, permanent place of rest. That need for a dedicated space remains a core focus for many.

However, the modern landscape of memorialisation is expanding, revealing a profound and growing desire among client families for intimacy, accessibility, and a daily connection to their loved one’s story.

This evolution requires funeral professionals to offer highly meaningful alternatives. We find that families who are choosing not to inter— or who are using an in-park plot alongside a significant at-home memorial—now have a way to facilitate that continuous connection with deep meaning. By bringing a loved one’s essence home, the act of remembrance shifts from a formal, distant visitation to a dynamic, ever-present reality.

The Urn as the Complete Memorial

This profound desire for a distinctive, heartfelt tribute is the foundation upon which companies like Rapt In Memories are built. With over 28 years of experience in graphic design and the funeral industry, the family behind Rapt In Memories understands that the memorial vessel itself must transcend simple function.

For families choosing to create a sanctuary of remembrance right in their home, the urn must rise beyond simple function. It needs to become the sacred epicentre of their ongoing connection, a tangible, ever-present symbol of love that anchors the new memorial space. Rapt In Memories specialises in creating personalised, photo-wrapped cremation urns designed to become the entire memorial. Through this process, client families can add images, meaningful text, and cherished memories directly onto the surface of the urn. The result is a seamless work of art that captures the unique personality and legacy of the loved one, allowing the urn to stand alone as the most potent, enduring tribute.

Continuing Their Story: Presence and Connection

This focus on customisation and deep connection is the core reason Rapt In Memories exists. The objective is to keep the departed loved one present for the life events and quiet moments that continue after loss.

Consider the example of the Miller family. They chose a Rapt In Memories urn for their mother, wrapping it in images from her life—one of her paintings, one from her wedding day, and a favourite photo of her with her grandchildren. Instead of a distant niche, the urn rests on the mantle in their main living space. On her birthday, they don’t just remember her; they set a small slice of cake and a card beside the urn, telling her stories, keeping her included. For the family, this isn’t just an object; it is their connection point, a way to include her in family traditions and occasions like birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries. The urn validates her enduring presence in their daily life.

By offering this option, you are giving your client families a tangible, enduring means to continue that story.

A Partnership Built on Compassion and Craftsmanship

Rapt In Memories operates as a dedicated family business—run by a husband, wife, and their two daughters. This structure imbues their service with a level of care, understanding, and personal commitment that can only come from decades of shared experience. Their commitment to customisation ensures that every finished piece is an exceptional standard of craftsmanship. This level of service extends to all family members, which is why they also offer beautifully designed, personalised pet photo-wrapped urns.

The decision to offer a home memorial option like Rapt In Memories is a powerful affirmation that you, as a funeral professional, are meeting the diverse and evolving needs of today’s families. For those seeking this extraordinary and custom-made way to pay tribute, the handcrafted, personalised urns from Rapt In Memories are available exclusively through Final Touch Australia, ensuring that this meaningful piece of art and memory can become a centrepiece for continuous connection for your client families.

SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL

FROM SACRED GROUNDS TO LIVING HISTORY: SUNSHINE COAST CEMETERIES REVEALED

From the coast to the hinterland, the Sunshine Coast’s public cemeteries are more than resting places – they’re rich with stories of community, resilience and remembrance. Thanks to a unique collaboration between Sunshine Coast Council’s Cemetery Services and Cultural Heritage teams, these stories are now being brought to life through the Historian in Residence program.

Award-winning historian, researcher and author Dr Lisa Murray was Council’s 2024 Historian in Residence, commissioned to explore the public cemeteries of the Sunshine Coast. Her research has uncovered a tapestry of local history, revealing how communities shaped these sacred spaces through determination, generosity and care.

In the late 1880s and early 1900s, cemeteries were not simply allocated – they were created by the people. Communities petitioned the government, donated land and held working bees to establish burial grounds that reflected their values and needs. One striking example is Diddillibah Cemetery, established in just two months thanks to a land donation by Henry A. Keil and the tireless efforts of local residents.

Dr Murray’s research also highlights cemeteries as places of heroism and tragedy. At Witta Cemetery, the grave of Mitchell, a First Nations man who died in 1919, stands as a rare and respectful tribute. His headstone, funded by the Landsborough Shire Council, is a testament to the recognition of First Nations lives in local history. Meanwhile, Nambour Cemetery holds the story of Claude Bonner Nosworthy, who tragically lost his life in 1922 while saving others from drowning – a legacy of courage etched in stone.

Cemeteries also reflect changing social and cultural landscapes. The opening of Nambour Garden Cemetery in 1960 marked a shift in burial practices, introducing one of Queensland’s first regional lawn cemeteries. With its fountains and landscaped gardens, it represented a modern, serene approach to memorialisation. Similarly, Buderim Cemetery’s elegant entrance gate, funded by benefactor Mrs Isola Frederic in memory of her husband, speaks to the personal connections and philanthropy that continue to shape these spaces.

To share these insights with the community, Dr Murray led a guided tour of Beerwah and Mooloolah cemeteries, offering participants a chance to walk through history and hear

the stories behind the headstones. She also delivered a public talk on Landsborough Cemetery, highlighting its unique heritage and the role it has played in the region’s development.

This initiative is part of Sunshine Coast Council’s broader commitment to preserving cultural heritage and enhancing public understanding of cemeteries as places of memory, identity and community connection. By commissioning this research and hosting public events, Council is ensuring that the stories of those who came before us are not forgotten – but celebrated.

Dr Murray’s work invites us to see cemeteries not just as places of mourning, but as living archives – spaces where history, culture and community intersect. Her findings will inform future planning, conservation and interpretation efforts across the region’s cemeteries.

To access Dr Murray’s report, visit Unearthing the stories of Sunshine Coast cemeteries | Sunshine Coast Council.

PLOT 2153 PLOT

In April 2024 I walked into Ararat Cemetery in search of a lost relative, Dennis Francis, my great great grandfather just as thousands do every year. Ellen took me to his grave (thank goodness for volunteers).

Dennis had been in plot 2153, unvisited for 118 years since his interment in 1906.

He was in a large area with no tombstones, just stones with carved numbers. He died a pauper like the thousands around him, from Aradale Asylum. Some graves housed multiple souls ‘at rest’. Dennis was lucky, he had a grave to himself. We both agreed, this was ‘not okay’. That was the germination of an idea, a project to recognise those like Dennis and the beginning of a very steep learning curve for me.

I partnered up with Millie from Friends of J Ward (FOJW), the volunteer led museum for the criminally insane from Aradale Asylum and on 4 March 2025 the FOJW erected a memorial in Ararat Cemetery. If a memorial could be erected in Ararat, what about other cemeteries close to asylums? Plot 2153 was born.

I heard Dr Hannah Gould from Melbourne University’s ‘DeathTech Research Team’ on the radio and made contact. She and DeathTech heard something in my project and I now operate in collaboration with them, thanks to Dr Hannah Gould, Prof Michael Arnold and the team. Dr Gould invited me to speak at ACCA’s national conference this year in Sydney, thanks Ben and ACCA. Plot 2153 is spreading its wings, there are many related projects ahead and the support has been encouraging and greatly appreciated.

I’ve learnt most cemeteries have unmarked graves and exact numbers are often unknown. This is also the case with pauper graves, many of which are close to a mental health institution.

We could have done better in the past but times were different and it’s easy to be judgmental through the lens of 2025. The

Plot 2153 memorials are one way to inform ourselves, acknowledge the past and restore some dignity to the paupers at rest.

Thank goodness we are lucky enough to live in a country where we are able to set time aside and spare our thoughts for all those like Dennis Francis.

Dennis’s story is sad and complex. Everyone has a story worth hearing. When memorials dot the landscape I will write his microhistory, therein lies another project.

And as for others buried in unmarked and pauper graves? Yarra Bend Asylum? Devonshire Street Cemetery (Sydney’s Central Station site)? What about today’s paupers in Ballan Cemetery? The list of projects like the one in Ararat is long.

I’m looking for help.

When the Plot 2153 website goes live I hope you will visit it to leave your comments, contribute your ideas and perhaps get involved in a project or two.

To know more or if interested in sharing your thoughts I can be contacted at plot2153@gmail.com and please visit the Facebook page.

This horse (or is it a phoenix?) is carved on a foundation stone of Aradale’s exercise yard. Perhaps it was to take the patient/artist far away, to freedom.

Aradale Asylum morgue located in the exercise yard where patients tended the vegetable garden enclosed by the ‘ha-ha wall’. Locals would sit on this wall and poke fun at the patients for their own enjoyment.

PORIRUA CITY COUNCIL RECOGNISES FORGOTTEN LIVES THROUGH MEMORIAL PROJECT

Porirua City Council in NZ working to memorialise over 1700 graves of unmarked mental hospital patients.

A Royal inquiry into state abuse care in NZ has resulted in a recommendation for local councils to recognise and memorialise any unmarked graves where mental health patients rest.

The project kicked off early this year following a news release and the public release of the list of all patient’s names that lay in unmarked graves. The media release garnered a lot of media interest, and the public were asked to get in touch with the council if they found names on the list that were part of their family tree. Following the media release the public responded very well, with dozens of families getting in touch within the first month.

As time has progressed the council now has family members on an email list for 117 patients in unmarked graves. Cemeteries Manager Daniel Chrisp say ‘This response to our project is fantastic, it shows that many of these people in these unmarked graves are indeed not forgotten, they are part of a family tree, they were people, they were mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters.’

The societal view on mental health has significantly changed over the last 50-100 years when these people were admitted to the hospital. They were often admitted for such things as having Dementia, ADHD, Autism, PTSD, being an alcoholic or even something like having an affair.

“This project is a historical line in the sand that we as a society will remember these people, many of them had occupations like baker, tin smith, many of them we have found were veterans that served for our country and we have even found one of them who was an All Black in his day” Chrisp says.

We are excited to be in communications with the organisers of project Plot 2153 which is very much part of the same concept of not forgetting these people who now lay in unmarked graves.

Daniel Chrisp

Porirua City Council, New Zealand

FUNERALS AUSTRALIA REPORT

As we wrap up 2025, I can honestly say this has been one of the most transformative years in Funerals Australia’s history. Change, growth, and renewed purpose have defined the past 12 months, and I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to represent our Association both nationally and internationally during this exciting chapter.

Our Rebrand – A Defining Moment

In August, we took a bold step forward by rebranding from AFDA to Funerals Australia. This wasn’t just a new logo or name; it is a clear statement about who we are, what we stand for, and the leadership role we’re committed to playing in conversations around funeral service, death, dying, preplanning, and community education. The response from members, partners, and the public has been overwhelmingly positive, and this fresh identity is already opening doors for broader engagement across the sector.

Celebrating 90 Years of Excellence

Another highlight was our 90-Year Anniversary Celebration in Melbourne, a night filled with reflection, recognition, and pride in both our history and our future. Events like this remind us of the strength and unity within our membership and the importance of celebrating our profession together.

Investing in Education – FLH 2.0

We launched the Funeral Learning Hub (FLH) 2.0, an upgraded education platform designed to lift professional standards nationwide. With smarter reporting tools, AI-driven features, and a more intuitive experience, the Hub is ready to support funeral professionals at every stage of their career.

Strategic Direction

Behind the scenes, the National Council has been working hard on strategic priorities that will shape the next phase of our development. Our roadmap focuses on strengthening our national voice, delivering more value to members, and ensuring Funerals Australia remains innovative and future focused.

Representing Our Profession

As National President, I’ve had the privilege of attending key events this year, including the ACCA Conference in Sydney. Thank you for the opportunity to connect with industry colleagues, share ideas, and learn from inspiring speakers. Collaboration between our Associations continues to grow, with a draft Terms of Reference for a joint industry advisory panel now underway which is an important step toward greater alignment and a stronger collective voice on issues like regulation, preplanning, and consumer protection.

I joined fellow Funerals Australia members at the NFDA Convention & Expo in Chicago, USA alongside our Scholarship Winner, Melanie Hamshaw. Our presence reinforced Australia’s reputation as a global leader in funeral standards and strengthened international relationships.

Looking Ahead

Preparations are nearly complete for our 2026 National Convention at Novotel Sunshine Coast (19–22 March). I’m thrilled to announce Dr Chadden Hunter who is a renowned wildlife biologist and filmmaker as our keynote speaker. Known for his work with Sir David Attenborough, Dr Hunter’s extraordinary stories from Antarctica to Pakistan will be a highlight of the program. Additionally, we have sessions on data driven decision making; how to market the unmarketable; a deep dive on GST; looking at how to make grief meaningful and many more.

Expect diverse sessions, interactive learning, and a vibrant social calendar. Planning is also underway for our 2027 National Convention & Expo in Western Sydney. This is a major industry event combining expo, education, and conference elements. We look forward to welcoming ACCA members to these gatherings.

On behalf of Funerals Australia, I wish all ACCA members a safe, happy, and restful holiday season. Here’s to a collaborative and exciting 2026 as we continue to advance and unite our profession.

Warm regards

Asha Dooley National President

CEMETERIES & CREMATORIA ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

CCAWA Once Day Seminar and AGM

The President and Board of Directors of CCAWA are pleased to extend an invitation to one and all to attend the annual one day seminar and AGM titled “People Helping People” on April 17th 2026.

The Board have made the decision to return to the Ingot Hotel in Rivervale, the same venue as this year due to the positive feedback, service received and ease of location for people travelling to and from the airport and regional centres throughout WA.

Gary Crombie and his best friend “Levi” will be the keynote speaker at the seminar. Gary is a Vietnam Veteran suffering PTSD , however Levi has turned his life around.

Dogs are loyal companions to many, but for a person living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) the presence of a service dog can be life-changing.

From veterans to first responders and trauma survivors, these specially trained dogs can help to calm anxiety, reduce flashbacks and rebuild confidence.

After years of silently battling his own PTSD, Royal Australian Navy veteran Gary Crombie said he has found his lifeline in his golden retriever and he will share his story with delegates on the day.

As well, there will also be presentations from OAWG, safety in the cemetery, what happens after the funeral and more, together with updates from all of our loyal Major sponsors.

The presentation of the 2026 Peter MacLean Award to the successful recipient will also take place.

On the afternoon of Thursday, 16th April a workshop will be held on record keeping and completion of applications and documents associated with cemetery burials a topic requested by shire councils and funeral directors from regional centres in outlying areas of WA.

Mark the dates in your diary and plan to visit the lovely state of Western Australia.

Stillbirth and Pregnancy Loss Acknowledgement

The Friends of the Margaret River Cemetery have been working to create a special installation to remember babies lost across the Shire over the past 175 years.

Working over a recent weekend, the volunteer group placed 269 images of teddy bears to the cemetery fence to remember the lost children under the age of two, 89 of whom were stillbirths’ – to mark international Stillbirth and Pregnancy Loss Day, on Wednesday October 15th.

“From the 1870’s through to now, we wish to remember these children, a group spokesperson explained. “Whether they were born in a tent in a forestry camp and buried in the bush, to early settlers who spread across the south west corner who also lost babies who were buried in cemeteries or elsewhere, and to all the others who died across decades.”

Twenty six of the children also had siblings under the age of two, who had also passed.

The bears hold a name and date of death, with some families suffering the loss of multiple babies.

“So many families walked away through hardship or circumstances and left there babies here with us, we thought we would like to shine a light on them all this year.”

Article courtesy of Margaret River Mail with thanks.

Kondinin Pioneer Cemetery

Recently a CCAWA member visited the Kondinin Pioneer Cemetery. Kondinin is a small town located in the eastern Wheatbelt region of Western Australia, 279 kilometres east of Perth. The cemetery is situated approximated 4 kilometres from the town centre opposite a large salt lake. The cemetery was opened in 1910 and held burials up until 1950.

Sadly on the outside of the main fence is a grave marked with a wooden cross and the name reads – Unnamed Pauper 1934 marked on the cross.

Many of the graves within the cemetery grounds are marked with a steel cross and there is evidence of works taking place recently to possibly improve and clean up the cemetery grounds.

There is a plaque positioned on a piece of stone to acknowledge Mr. Bob Palmer dated 1996 in recognition of his tireless work in rehabilitating the Pioneer Cemetery and tree planting around Kondinin.

So much history lays resting in a place unknown to many.

CEMETERIES & CREMATORIA ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA

Annual General Meeting 2025

The Cemeteries and Crematoria Association of Victorian held its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 22 October, in the AFL Dining Room at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Members and guests were treated to an engaging presentation by Coroner Audrey Jamieson, who provided a fascinating insight into the role of the Coroner and the important work undertaken by her office. Her address offered valuable context and understanding of the Coroner’s interactions with cemetery and crematoria operations across the state.

Our keynote speaker, Neil Balme, one of the AFL’s most respected and admired figures, captivated the audience with his reflections on leadership, resilience, and teamwork — themes that resonated strongly with our sector.

The meeting also included Board updates and elections. Rob, Julia, John, Sally, Damian and Jordan continue in their current roles, each with one year remaining in their term. Karen Johnson and Danielle Mazzini were re-elected for a further two-year term, and we warmly welcome Susan Duncan from Bulla Cemetery, who joins the Board for her first two-year term.

The CCAV thanks all members who attended and contributed to a successful AGM.

RACV Resort Torquay –25 to 27 March 2026

Join us at the CCAV Annual Conference 2026 at the stunning RACV Resort Torquay.

Set against the backdrop of Victoria’s stunning Surf Coast, this year’s program promises to be both thought-provoking and engaging. This year’s program will feature a keynote on Mental Health, a timely session addressing the challenge of rabbits in cemeteries, and Department of Health updates.

Conference highlights include cemetery visits to Geelong Eastern Cemetery, featuring a History Alive performance, and the historic Queenscliff Cemetery with a walk through the Moonah woodland.

Our Trade Village will again showcase the latest products and services from valued Industry Partners.

We look forward to welcoming you to Torquay for another engaging and informative event.

“In Conversation” Sessions Across Victoria

Throughout 2025, the CCAV has hosted a series of “In Conversation” sessions across regional Victoria and Metro South. Locations included Mildura, Swan Hill, Warrnambool, Traralgon, Wodonga, Horsham, and Ararat, providing an invaluable opportunity for members to connect and share experiences.

Every member of the Executive Board attended at least one session, engaging directly with volunteer Trust members, cemetery staff, and in some areas, local funeral directors. These gatherings allowed participants to discuss the challenges of operating a cemetery, as well as the recent changes to the Regulations introduced in June 2025.

In addition to informative updates, the sessions offered a space for networking with neighbouring cemeteries, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the sector. Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the chance to connect face-to-face with the CCAV leadership and exchange ideas on best practice in cemetery management.

These sessions highlight CCAV’s commitment to supporting members across Victoria and strengthening connections within the cemetery and crematoria community.

“In Conversation” Online Sessions

As part of ongoing engagement with members, the CCAV has introduced online “In Conversation” sessions, focusing on one topic each month that affects cemetery operations. Recent sessions have covered areas such as Forms, Budgeting, Grant Writing, and developing new fees, providing practical guidance and insights.

Held once a month for one hour, these sessions offer a convenient way for members to connect, share experiences, and learn from others in the sector. For those unable to attend live, all sessions are recorded and available for later viewing, ensuring every member has the opportunity to participate and benefit from the discussions.

Domestic Animals Amendment (Rehoming Cats and Dogs and Other Matters) Bill 2025

An amendment to the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act 2003, will not prevent the placement of burial of animal remains in places of interments in public cemeteries. Guidance material is currently being developed within the Department of Health, and the CCAV is actively involved, providing input on points of concern and potential operational challenges.

This change may have significant implications for cemetery operations, and CCAV will continue to keep members informed as the legislation progresses.

NFDA

2025 ACC HIGGINS AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL EXPO: INNOVATION, CONNECTION, AND COMMUNITY

The 2025 ACC Higgins Australian Funeral Expo brought together the nation’s funeral professionals for a weekend of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration at the Melbourne Convention Centre. The event, proudly presented by the National Funeral Directors Association of Australia (NFDA), took place over two days, with the opening night held on Friday, 17 October, and the main exhibition day on Saturday, 18 October.

This year’s Expo was one of the largest to date, featuring over 55 exhibitors and welcoming more than 1,200 attendees from across Australia and beyond. The strong turnout reflected the growing interest in new technologies, sustainable practices, and creative service offerings shaping the future of the funeral industry.

The NFDA extended its sincere thanks to Peter MacLeod and ACC Higgins for their generous sponsorship, which made the event possible. Their continued support underscores the importance of industry collaboration and investment in professional development.

Beyond the exhibits, the Expo provided invaluable opportunities for networking and professional connection. Funeral directors, suppliers, and service providers came together to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss the evolving expectations of modern families. The event fostered a spirit of community that has long been the hallmark of the Australian funeral profession.

As the NFDA looks ahead, the success of the 2025 ACC Higgins Australian Funeral Expo stands as a testament to the strength

and adaptability of Australia’s funeral sector. It reaffirmed the shared commitment to excellence, empathy, and innovation that continues to define the profession.

The NFDA extends its deepest gratitude to all exhibitors, attendees, and sponsors for making this year’s Expo an outstanding success. Plans are already underway for the 2028 event, which promises to build on this momentum and continue providing a vital platform for learning, networking, and celebrating the people who serve families in their time of need.

For any questions, feedback, or future opportunities, please contact the NFDA. www.nfda.com.au 1300 556 860

INDUSTRY EVENTS 2025-2026

We are increasingly becoming an international/global business community. The following is a snapshot of the industry conferences and seminars we have been informed of for 2025/2026. Web links to the organisations are below. If you would like further contact details of any of the organisations listed, please contact the Secretariat Office.

Do you have any upcoming event you would like us to promote, or did we miss an event?

Please email admin@accaweb.com.au

Some of the events listed on this page may be cancelled or postponed. Please contact each organisation directly if you have any uncertainty or questions.

ACCA

Annual Conference

1 – 4 September 2026, Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast Australia

AFE

Asia Funeral and Cemetery Expo and Conference 12-14 May 2026, Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre

FUNERALS AUSTRALIA

National Convention

19 – 23 March 2026, Resort Sunshine Coast QLD

CCAV

Annual Conference

25 – 27 March 2026, Torquay, Victoria Australia

CCAWA

Annual one day seminar & AGM 16 – 17 April 2026

CANA

Event information to be confirmed

CBCE

Event information to be confirmed

CCANSW

Event information to be confirmed

CCASA

Event information to be confirmed

IAOPCC

Event information to be confirmed

ICCM

Event information to be confirmed

WEBSITES

ACCA accaweb.com.au

AFE asiafuneralexpo.com

AIE aieptyltd.org

CANA cremationassociation.org

CASA cemeteriessa.com.au

CBCE cbce.org.uk

CCANSW ccansw.org.au

CCAV ccav.org.au

CCC catholiccemeteryconference.org

CSGB cremation.org.uk

Devota devota.at

FA funeralsaustralia.org.au

FBCA fbca.org.uk

FDA (NSW) fdansw.com.au

FDANZ fdanz.org.nz

FIAT-IFTA thanos.org

IAPCC iaopc.com

ICF int-crem-fed.org

ICCFA iccfa.com

ICCM iccm-uk.com

MBNA monumentbuilders.org

NAFD (UK) nafd.org.uk

NFDA nfda.org

NFDA (RSA) nfda.org.za

NFDA (Aus) nfda.com.au

NZCCC nzcemeteriescrematoria.co.nz

TanExpo tanexpo.com

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Auckland Memorial Park

PO Box 391, Silverdale, Auckland, New Zealand

e: gm@ampl.co.nz

p: 64273003707

Besi Belalis

Locked Bag 5123, Parramatta, NSW 2124

e: besi.belalis@cemeteries.nsw.gov.au

p: (02) 9842 8473

Mark Forgie

PO Box 711, Gawler, SA 5118

e: bookings@northernrc.com.au

p: (08) 8522 1734

Lucy Millena

26 Westfield Street Earlwood, NSW 2206

e: msmillena@yahoo.com.au

p: (03) 9787 6993

ASSOCIATE FELLOW

Warwick Hansen OAM

16 Akala Avenue, Forster NSW 2428

e: warwick@warwickhansen.com.au

p: 0418 421 421

EMERITUS FELLOW MEMBERS

Lynwood Davis

VIC, Australia

e: lhd1952@bigpond.net.au p: 0419 321 993

Shirley Cooke

VIC, Australia

e: shrlcooke11@gmail.com

Peter O’Meara (dec) NSW, Australia

FULL MEMBERS

NEW SOUTH WALES

Broulee Memorial Gardens

195 Broulee Rd, Broulee NSW 2537 p: (02) 4471 5867 w: www.bmgc.com.au

Castlebrook Memorial Park

712-746 Windsor Rd, Rouse Hill NSW 2155 p: (02) 9629 1477 w: www.castlebrook.com.au

Catholic Cemeteries & Crematoria Trust

Level 2/11 Murray Rose Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127 e: enquiries@catholiccemeteries.com.au p: (02)8713 5726

Cessnock City Council

PO Box 152, Cessnock, NSW 2325

e: cemetery@cessnock.nsw.gov.au p: (02) 4993 4300

Forest Lawn Memorial Park

Camden Valley Way, Leppington NSW 2179 p: (02) 9606 5822 w: www.forestlawn.com.au

InvoCare Australia Pty Limited

Level 5, 40 Mount Street, North Sydney NSW 2060 e: info@invocare.com.au p: (02) 9978 5200

Lake Macquarie Memorial Park

405 Cessnock Rd, Ryhope NSW 2283 p: (02) 4950 5727 w: www.lakemacquariecrem.com.au

Lakeside Memorial Park

230 Kanahooka Rd, Kanahooka NSW 2530

p: (02) 4261 1200 w: www.lakesidecrem.com.au

Lincoln Grove Memorial Gardens & Crematorium

1040 Gunnedah Road, Tamworth NSW 2340

e: info@lincolngrove.com.au p: (02) 6760 7311

Lithgow City Council

PO Box 19, Lithgow, NSW 2790

e: council@lithgow.nsw.gov.au p: (02) 6354 9999

Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens

Tweed Valley Way Chinderch NSW 2487 e: wes@heritagebrothers.com.au p: (02) 6674 3777

Metropolitan Memorial Parks

C/- Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park

12 Military Rd, Matraville NSW 2036

e: esmp@mmplm.com.au p: 02 9661 5655

w: www.metropolitanmemorialparks.com.au

Newcastle Memorial Park

176 Anderson Dr, Beresfield NSW 2322 p: (02) 4944 6000 w: www.newcastlecrem.com.au

Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens & Crematorium

199 Delhi Rd, North Ryde NSW 2113 p: (02) 9887 2033 w: www.northernsuburbscrem.com.au

Pinegrove Memorial Park

Kington St, Minchinbury NSW 2770 p: (02) 9625 8066 w: www.pinegrovecrem.com.au

Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council

PO Box 90, Queanbeyan, NSW 2620 e: anna.corcoran@qprc.nsw.gov.au p: 0408 247 019

Rookwood Memorial Gardens & Crematorium

Memorial Ave, Rookwood NSW 2141 p: (02) 9746 8945 w: www.rookwoodcrem.com.au

Sapphire City Crematorium (Horder Family Funerals)

2 Delvyn Drive Inverell NSW 2360 e: phorder@horderfamilyfunerals.com.au p: (02) 6732 5911

Tweed Heads Memorial Gardens

176 Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 p: (07) 5524 2428 w: www.tweedheadscrem.com.au

Tweed Shire Council

PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, NSW 2484 e: cemeteries@tweed.nsw.gov.au p: (02) 6670 2400

Walkers Crematorium

75 Smith Street, Kempsey NSW 2440 e: rbwalkerpl@gmail.com p: (02) 6562 4329

Wollondilly Shire Council

62-64 Menangle Street, Picton NSW 2571 e: cemeteries@wollondilly.nsw.gov.au p: (02) 4677 1100

QUEENSLAND

Albany Creek Memorial Park

400 Albany Creek Road, Bridgeman Downs QLD 4035 p: (07) 3263 3033 w: www.albanycreekcrem.com.au

Allambe Memorial Park

129 Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Nerang QLD 4211 p: (07) 5578 1699 w: www.allambe.com.au

Balonne Shire Council

PO Box 201, St George, QLD 4487 e: debbie.green@balonne.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4620 8888

Brisbane City Council Cemeteries & Crematoria

40A Kitchener Road, Kedron, QLD 4031 e: jade.sime@brisbane.qld.gov.au p: (07) 3178 4144

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

Bundaberg Crematorium and Memorial Park & Branyan Garden ‘Garden of Rest’

PO Box 768, Bundaberg QLD 4670

e: info@brownsfunerals.com.au

p: (07) 4151 3357

Bundaberg Regional Council

91 Takalvan Street, MillBank, Bundaberg, QLD 4670

e: nicholas.burfield@bundaberg.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 4130 4477

Burdekin Shire Council

145 Young Steet, AYR, QLD 4807 e: tonia.marano@burdekin.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 4783 9800

Cairns City (Regional) Council

PO Box 152 Cairns QLD 4870 e: regadmin@cairns.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4044 8378

Cassowary Coast Regional Council

PO Box 887, Innisfail QLD 4860 e: hayley.accatino@ccrc.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4043 8829

Centenary Memorial Gardens

PO Box 3363, Mt Ommaney, QLD 4074 e: taniahoward@centenarymemorialgardens.com.au p: (07) 3271 1222

City of Moreton Bay

PO Box 159, Caboolture, QLD 4510 e: darren.meinen@moretonbay.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 3205 0555

Darling Downs Cremation Service

1020 Ruthven Street Toowoomba 4358 e: trevor@burstows.com.au

p: (07) 4636 9600

Fraser Coast Crematorium (Ross Funerals)

PO Box 1072, Hervey Bay QLD 4655

e: info@rossfunerals.com.au

p: (07) 4124 7521

Fraser Coast Regional Council

PO BOX 1943, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655

e: cemeteries@frasercoast.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4190 5857

Gladstone Regional Council

PO Box 29, Gladstone, QLD 4680 e: parks@gladstone.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4970 0700

City of Gold Coast

Chris Stockley

e: CSTOCKLEY@goldcoast.qld.gov.au p: 0466 861 614

Great Northern Garden of Remembrance 31-35 Tallowwood Drive, Deception Bay, QLD 4508

e: info@gngor.com.au

p: (07) 3888 3535

Great Southern Memorial Park 1774-1794 Mount Cotton Rd, Carbrook QLD 4130

p: (07) 3829 9999

w: www.greatsoutherncrem.com.au

Gympie Cemetery Trust

93 Cartwright Rd, Gympie, QLD 4570

e: supervisor@gympiecemeterytrust.com.au

p: (07) 5482 2199

Gympie Regional Council

PO BOX 9, Liklivan, QLD 4600

e: nadia.bannerman@gympie.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 5487 2311

Haigslea Lawn Cemetery

Haigslea Road, Haigslea QLD 4306 e: sue@norwoodpark.com.au

p: (07) 5464 3145

Heritage Brady Funeral Directors & Crematorium

PO Box 58, Gordonvale, QLD 4865 e: chris@heritagebradyfunerals.com.au

p: (07) 4056 1627

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

PO Box 366 Ingham QLD 4850

e: vrusso@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4776 4607

Ipswich City Council

1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich QLD 4305

e: graham.schultz@ipswich.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 3810 7680

Ipswich Crematorium

12 Anderson Day Drive, Willowbank QLD 4306 e: sue@norwoodpark.com.au p: (07) 5464 3145

Ipswich General Cemetery

Cnr Warwick Rd & Cemetery Road, Ipswich QLD 4305

e: sue@norwoodpark.com.au p: (07) 5464 3145

Livingstone Shire Council

PO Box 2292, Yeppoon, QLD 4703 e: cemeteries@livingstone.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4913 5000

Lockyer Valley Regional Council

PO Box 82 Gatton, QLD 4343 e: bsippel@lvrc.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 5468 4989

Logan City Council

177 Chambers Flat Road, Marsden QLD 4132

e: kirstyquinn@logan.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 3804 4609

Mackay Regional Council

PO BOX 41, Mackay, QLD 4740 e: greg.walton@mackay.qld.gov.au

p: 1300 622 529

Maryborough Crematorium

140 Adelaide Street, Maryborough, QLD 4650 e: jks1865@bigpond.net.au p: (07) 4121 4183

Mount Isa City Council

PO Box 815, Mount Isa, QLD 4825 e: city@mountisa.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4747 3200

Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens

329 Nursery Rd, Holland Park QLD 4121 p: (07) 3349 2001 w: www.mtthompsoncrem.com.au

Noosa Shire Council

PO Box 141, Tewantin, QLD 4565 e: troy.andreassen@noosa.qld.gov.au p: (07) 5329 6454

Norwood Park Pty Ltd, Operating as Ipswich Cemeteries

PO Box 4206, Raceview QLD 4305 e: sue@integrityfunerals.com.au p: (07) 5464 3145

Nudgee Cemetery & Crematorium

493 St Vincent Road, Nudgee, QLD 4014 e: webbm@bne.catholic.net.au p: (07) 3324 3499

Redland City Council

PO Box 21, Cleveland QLD 4163 e: cemetery@redland.qld.gov.au p: 07 3829 8570

Rockhampton Crematorium

PO Box 3015, North Rockhampton, QLD 4701 e: rockycrem@gmail.com p: (07) 4928 2126

Rockhampton Regional Council

PO Box 1860, Rockhampton, QLD 4700

e: joanne.stratford@rrc.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4934 8374

Southern Downs Regional Council

PO Box 26, Warwick, QLD 4370 e: mark.mcgowan@sdrc.qld.gov.au p: 1300 697 372

Stone Quarry Cemetery

Lot 207, Stone Quarry Road, Jeebropilly QLD 4340

e: sue@norwoodpark.com.au

p: (07) 5464 3145

Sunshine Coast Regional Council

Locked Bag 72, Sunshine Coast Mail Centre e: cemeteries@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au p: (07) 5459 2300

Tablelands Regional Council

PO Box 573, Atherton, QLD 4883 e: trcfacilities@trc.qld.gov.au p: 1300 362 242

Tallegalla Cemetery

Rosewood Marburg Road, Tallegalla QLD 4340

e: sue@norwoodpark.com.au

p: (07) 5464 3145

Toowoomba Garden of Remembrance

1001 Ruthven St, Toowoomba QLD 4350

p: (07) 4635 4866

w: www.toowoombacrem.com.au

Toowoomba Regional Council

PO Box 3021, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 e: cemeteryofficer@toowoombarc.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4688 6686

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

Townsville City Council

PO Box 1268 Townsville QLD 4810

e: townsville.cemeteries@townsville.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 4727 9754

Warrill Park Lawn Cemetery

12 Anderson Day Drive, Willowbank QLD 4306

e: sue@norwoodpark.com.au

p: (07) 5464 3145

Western Downs Regional Council

PO Box 551, Dalby, QLD 4405

e: info@wdrc.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 4679 4123

Whitsunday Regional Council

PO Box 104, Proserpine, QLD 4800

e: info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 4761 3823

Woongarra Crematorium

PO Box 2510, Idalia, QLD 4811

e: kyliem@woongarra.net.au

p: (07) 4778 1476

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Adelaide Cemeteries Authority

PO Box 294 Enfield PlazaSA 5085

e: Michael.robertson@aca.sa.gov.au

p: (08) 8139 7400

City of Salisbury

PO Box 8, Salisbury, SA 5108

e: CGrocke@salisbury.sa.gov.au p: (08) 8406 8222

Drumminor Gardens Cemetery

61 Golden Grove Road, Ridgehaven, SA 5097 e: brenton@harrisonfunerals.com.au p: (08) 8265 6060

Mount Gambier Cemetery Trust

PO Box 56, Mount Gambier, SA 5290

e: cmccombe@mountgambier.sa.gov.au p: (08) 8725 3099

North Road Cemetery

1A Cemetery Avenue Nailsworth, SA 5083 e: cemetery@adelaideanglicans.com p: (08) 8344 1051

Payneham & Dudley Park Cemeteries Trust Inc.

Exeter Terrace, Dudley Park, SA 5008 e: admin@dudleyparkcemetery.com.au p: (08) 8344 2973

West Coast Memorial Park

PO Box 1415, Port Lincoln, SA 5606

e: jennifer@westcoastfunerals.com.au

p: (08) 8684 2001

Yorke Peninsula Council

PO Box 57 Maitland, SA, 5573 e: sue.beech@yorke.sa.gov.au p: (08) 8823 0000

VICTORIA

Boroondara Cemetery Trust

PO Box 565, Kew, VIC 3101

p: (03) 9853 7025

BoxHill Cemetery Trust

395 Middleborough Road, Box Hill VIC 3128 VIC p: (03) 9890 1229

e: admin@boxhillcemetery.com.au

Geelong Cemeteries Trust

141 Ormond Road, Geelong East, VIC 3219 e: ah@gct.net.au p: (03) 5249 3939

Rememberance Parks Central Victoria P.O. Box 268, Eaglehawk VIC 3556 e: emma.flukes@rpcv.org,au p: 1300 266 561

Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust

PO Box 1159, Clayton VIC 3169 e: ingrid.harvey@smct.org.au p: (03) 8558 8204

TASMANIA

Carr Villa Memorial Park (City of Launceston)

36 Nunamina Avenue

Kings Meadows 7249 TAS e: carrvilla@launceston.tas.gov.au p: (03) 6323 3604

Millingtons Cemeteries

The Cottage, Queens Walk, Cornelian Bay, TAS 7008 e: twhitehead@millingtons.com.au p: (03) 6278 1244

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Canberra Memorials Parks (formerly Canberra Cemeteries)

PO Box 37, Mitchell, ACT 2911 e: kerry.mcmurray@act.gov.au p: (02) 6207 0029

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Alice Springs Town Council

PO Box 1071, Alice Springs, NT 0871 e: astc@astc.nt.gov.au p: (08) 8950 0500

Thorak Regional Cemetery, Litchfield Shire Council

PO Box 446, Humpty Doo, NT 0836 e: anthony.vanzeeventer@litchfield.nt.gov.au p: (08) 8947 0903

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Albany Cemetery Board

PO Box 469, Albany, WA 6330

e: admin@acb.wa.gov.au

p: (08) 9844 7766

Bunbury Cemetery Board

PO Box 1115, Bunbury, WA 6231 e: info@bcb.wa.gov.au p: (08) 9721 3191

City of Busselton

Locked Bag 1, Busselton, WA 6280

e: city@busselton.wa.gov.au

p: (08) 9781 0444

City of Mandurah

3 Peel Street, Mandurah WA 6210

e: council@mandurah.wa.gov.au

p: (08) 9550 3777

Geraldton Cemetery Board

130 Eastward Road, Geraldton, WA 6530

e: ce@gcb.wa.gov.au

p: (08) 9921 2707

Kalgoorlie - Boulder Cemetery Board

PO Box 79, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

e: admin@kbcb.wa.gov.au

p: (08) 9091 1693

Metropolitan Cemeteries Board

PO Box 53, Claremont, WA 6910

e: kathlene.oliver@mcb.wa.gov.au

p: (08) 9383 5213

Shire of Meekatharra

PO Box 129, Meekatharra, WA 6642

e: dceo@meekashire.wa.gov.au

p: (08) 9980 0600

INTERNATIONAL

P Day and Son Ltd

41 Nile Street, Nelson, New Zealand 7010

e: bevan@daysfuneralservices.co.nz

p: 64 3 548 2770

Purewa Cemetery Trust Board

4a Parsons Road, Meadowbank

Auckland, New Zealand 1071

e: alastaircrombie@purewa.co.nz

p: 64 9 528 5599

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

CORPORATE MEMBERS

NEW SOUTH WALES

Celeste Catering Pty Ltd

5/481 Willoughby Rd, Willoughby NSW 2068

e: annie@celestecatering.com.au

p: (02) 9808 1088

Everlon

Unit 7/1-3 Nicholas St, Lidcombe, NSW 2141

e: info@everlon.com.au

p: (02) 9646 3886

Frank Dimarco & Son Pty Ltd

14 Production Avenue, Kogarah, NSW 2217

e: alf@fgagranite.com.au

p: (02) 9588 5477

Glory Marble & Granite

165 Hume Hwy, Greenacre, NSW 2190

e: mel@glorymarble.com.au

p: (03) 9460 9066

Greenworx

2/23 Bearing Road, Seven Hills, NSW 2147

e: john.kalocsai@greenworx.com.au

p: (02) 9676 5110

Hickey & Co. Pty Ltd

PO Box 13, Petersham, NSW 2049

e: paul@hickeyandco.com

p: (02) 9564 1888

L.S. Piddington & Sons Pty Ltd

PO Box 4424, Armidale, NSW 2350

e: allan@piddingtons.com.au

p: (02) 6772 2288

Keepsakes by Nicoleta

Level 5/4 Columbia Ct, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153

e: nicoleta@keepsakesbynicoleta.com.au

p: 0420 409 342

Mountain View Crematoria

34 Belmore Street, Woolongong, NSW 2500

e: alan@hparsons.com.au

p: (02) 4228 9622

National Granite Pty Ltd

PO Box 183, Sydney Markerts, NSW 2129

e: steve@nationalgranite.com.au

p: (02) 9748 8567

OpusXenta Pty Ltd

Tower 2, Level 14, 101 Grafton St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022

e: lea-annm@opusxenta.com p: 1300 994 853

Phoenix

44 Duke St (PO Box 5), Uralla, NSW 2358

e: orders@phoenixfoundry.com.au p: (02) 6738 2200

PlotBox

Level 12/64 York Street, Sydney NSW 2000 and The ECOS Centre, Kernohans Lane Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT43 7QA Northern Ireland

e: info@plotbox.com p: 0401 123 897 p: (02) 7228 7971

Reliance Risk Pty Ltd

Suite 604, Harley Place, 251 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction NSW 2022

p: (02) 8377 1818

m: 0478 351 757

e: andrew.constantinou@reliancerisk.com

Russell Investments

GPO Box 3279, SYDNEY NSW 2001

e: jhampshire@russellinvestments.com p: (02) 9229 5375

SpyderTech International Pty Ltd

2a/8 Reliance Drive, Tuggerah, NSW 2259

p: (02) 9308 1523

m: 0448 032 306

e: michaelshade@spydertech.net.au

Tyrrells Macquarie Park Memorials Pty Ltd

PO Box 176 North Ryde NSW 1670

p: (02) 9878 1714

e: nathan@tyrrellsmemorials.com.au

Zinnia Operations Pty Ltd

Level 32, 1 Market Street, Sydney, NSW 2000

p: (02) 9212 2255

m: 0419 290 768

e: andrew@memoriabyzinnia.com.au

QUEENSLAND

Final Touch Australia

Unit 3/13, Strathwyn St, Brendale, QLD 4500

e: chantelle@finaltouchaustralia.com.au p: (07) 3889 9607

Heritage Stonecraft & Design

4 Madison Court, Toowoomba QLD 4350 e: robert.heritagestone@gmail.com p: 0428 231 449

Hyqual Australia

31 Enterprise Street, Caloundra QLD 4551 e: office@hyqual.com p: 1800 77 77 44

Office of Australian War Graves

GPO Box 9998, Brisbane, QLD 4001 e: Sheena.Lambie@dva.gov.au p: 1800 555 254

Worssell & Co Pty Ltd

70 Mica Street, Carole Park, QLD 4300 e: michele@worssell.com.au p: (07) 3271 1511

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Monumental Masons Association of SA Inc

PO Box 10289, Adelaide BC, SA 5000

e: secretary@monumentalassociationsa.com.au p: 0439 276 461

VICTORIA

Arrow Bronze

P.O. Box 4576, Dandenong South, 3164

e: hymie.j@arrowbronze.com.au

p: (03) 9794 2922

Austeng Pty Ltd

78-80 Douro Street, North Geelong, VIC 3215

e: lyn@austeng.net.au

p: (03) 5278 2044

DP Jones & Co

PO Box 486, Kyabram, VIC 3619

e: info@dpjones.com.au

p: (03) 5852 2661

Giannarelli Holdings Pty Ltd

303-305 Spring Street, Reservoir VIC 3073

e: ag-sons@iimetro.com.au

p: (03) 9359 2142

John Stonemart Pty Ltd

310 Mahoneys Road, Thomastown, VIC 3074

e: jacky@johnstonemart.com

p: 03 9359 0898

Major Furnace Australia

92 Fairbank Road, Clayton South, VIC 3169

e: andrew.north@majoreng.com.au

p: (03) 8558 1800

Memories Group Limited

Level 1, 11-19 Bank Place

Melbourne VIC 3000

e: ben.cukier@memories.net

p: 0413 400 522

Morello/ Ashcroft Pty Ltd

Unit 1, 33-35 Commercial Drive, Thomastown, VIC 3074

e: mandyr@cmorello.com.au

p: (03) 9464 1700

Morgans Financial

279 Bay Street, Brighton North VIC 3186

e: stuart.doherty@morgans.com.au

p: (03) 9519 3512

Nelson Bros. Funeral Services

PO Box 2237, Footscray, VIC 3011

e: nelsonbros@nelsonbros.com.au

p: (03) 9687 1301

Norwalk Precast Burial Systems

47 Highlands Road, Seymour, VIC 3660

e: info@norwalk.com.au

p: (03) 5799 0083

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants

21 Aerolite Way, Beldon, WA 6027

e: funerals@afcc.com.au

p: 0422 741 222

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Territory Funerals

PO Box 2711 Palmerston NT 0831

e: admin@territoryfunerals.com.au p: 0438 637 258

INTERNATIONAL

Canterbury Memorial Gardens & Crematorium

P O Box 19795, Woolston Christchurch 8241, New Zealand

Cremation Society of Canterbury Limited PO Box 398, Christchurch, NZ

e: barbara@cremsoc.co.nz p: 64 3 3896 282

Facultatieve Technologies

80 Armstrong Way, Highland Park QLD 4211

Fu Shou Yuan Industrial Group Co Ltd

No. 500, Lane 7270, Waiqingsong Road, Qingpu District, Shanghai 201700, China e: shuting@shfsy.com p: 86 21 5425 5151

Hamilton Park Cemetery

Morrinsville Rd, Private Bag 3010, Hamilton 3240 New Zealand e: michelle.rivers@hcc.govt.nz p: 647 856 9604

Maunu Crematorium Ltd

PO Box 8043, Kensington, Whangarei, New Zealand 0145

e: info@maunucrematorium.co.nz p: 64 9437 5799

Milne Construction Australia Pty Ltd

Level 7 / 114 Williams Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000 e: info@milneaustralia.com p: 0404 456 223

Mongolian Funeral Association

301 “New Mind” Building, Undsen Huuli Street 9/1, 5th Khoroo, Sukhbaatar District, Ulaanbaatar Mongolia 14253 e: info@mfa.mn p: +976 7011 1343

OrthoMetals

Eekhorstweg 32, 7942KC Meppel, The Netherlands e: hidde@orthometals.nl p: +31 6 4306 6196

Semenyih Memorial Hills Berhad 9A, Jalan SS22/23 Damansara Jaya 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia e: ckliew.hms@gmail.com p: 6 3 772 95585

Taiyo Chikuro Industries Co Ltd

6-21 Higashi-koen, Hakata-Ku, Fukuoka, Japan

e: s-eguchi@taiyochikuro.jp p: 0 8 92 651 4131

Wellington City Council

76 Old Karori Road, Wellington, 6012 NZ e: elizabeth.reddington@wcc.govt.nz

Xiao En Memorial Park Bhd

Xiao En Centre, No.1, Jalan Kuari, Cheras, 56100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia e: kuan@xiao-en.com.my p: +603-9145 38