ACCA News - Winter 2024

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE AUSTRALASIAN CEMETERIES & CREMATORIA ASSOCIATION

ACCA News

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2024

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

Steve Nobbs

Executive General Manager

Cemeteries & Crematoria Invocare

p: (02) 9978 5200

e: steve.nobbs@invocare.com.au

Joe Fortuna

Founded December 1985

ACN 009 555 426

PRESIDENT

Lauren Hardgrove

Chief Executive Officer, Catholic Cemeteries & Crematoria Trust, NSW

p: (02) 9649 6423

e: laurenh@catholiccemeteries.com.au

VICE PRESIDENT

Dean Matthews

Geelong Cemeteries Trust

CEO

p: (03) 5249 3939

e: dm@gct.net.au

Director of Finance

Chief Finance Officer

p: (08) 9383 5266

e: joe.fortuna@mcb.wa.gov.au

Robert Moore

Fraser Coast Regional Council

Cemeteries Coordinator

p: (07) 4190 5822

e: robert.Moore@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Michael Robertson

Adelaide Cemeteries Authority

CEO

p: (08) 8139 7400

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

ACCA SECRETARIAT

Suite North 1, 215 Bell Street

Preston, VICTORIA, Australia 3072

p: (03) 9863 6914

For information on advertising in ACCA News or to contribute content, please contact:

Alison Tomolillo, 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

Printed by NEO

Published by ACCA Secretariat

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

As registrations open for the upcoming ACCA National Conference in Adelaide, I would like to explain the rationale behind this year’s theme. The board has chosen “Shaping the Future Together,” a theme that aligns seamlessly with ACCA’s strategic direction following the comprehensive review conducted last year.

“Shaping the Future Together” refers to collaboratively driving innovation and improvement across all facets of the industry. It involves uniting operators, suppliers, funeral directors, academic institutions, and government bodies to address current challenges and anticipate future needs. By working together, we can develop and implement best practices, advance educational initiatives, enhance regulatory standards, and adopt new technologies and sustainable practices. This collective effort ensures that we not only meet the evolving expectations of the communities we serve but also set a forward-thinking example for the global cemetery and cremation industry.

The conference’s speakers and sessions will reflect this theme, providing attendees with opportunities to hear from industryrelevant speakers and engage in valuable networking. These connections often yield long-term benefits, fostering innovation and growth within the industry.

One of the outcomes of the ACCA strategic review carried out last year was the need to enhance our collaboration with both domestic and international industry stakeholders and to enhance resources available to our members and to drive industry-wide improvements.

Below is update on some of these initiatives:

Education Initiatives

ACCA recently convened representatives from across the industry to explore ways to enhance educational offerings for our members and the broader cemetery and crematoria sector. This workshop included participants from local and state governments, trusts, private operators, state associations, funeral directors, and suppliers. The aim was to identify the skills and knowledge required to better equip our staff to meet industry challenges. Details on the initiatives arising from this working group and other exciting educational projects will be released soon.

International Connections

Significant efforts have been made to strengthen our global connections within the cemetery and cremation industry. This includes fostering relationships with industry associations in New Zealand, Canada, the UK, Asia, and Europe, as well as participating in international conferences and study tours. These events are invaluable for gaining insights into international practices and showcasing the groundbreaking work being done in Australia. Future editions of ACCA News will provide further information on these trips, and a dedicated talk at the conference will highlight our international engagements. Additionally, several initiatives inspired by these study tours are in progress, aiming to positively impact the industry. These include projects on monument safety, cremation emission standards, alternative fuels, and updates on alternatives to burial and cremation.

Industry Events and Learning from Each Other

Recently, ACCA hosted a QLD Cemetery Training Day at the Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery. This event had representatives from many of the private and local government-run cemeteries in southern QLD as well as representatives from central and western QLD and other states in Australia. The event focused on providing training on various topics, including cemetery and monument safety, legal matters around burial rights and estate law, compassionate selling, and a presentation on Project Cultivate and its adoption for all end-of-life areas in cemeteries.

We look forward to your participation in the conference and other industry events as we continue to shape the future of our industry together.

Yours Sincerely

Lauren Hardgrove ACCA President

Exciting extension of our popular Artisan Range of memorials now including hand painted emblems orders@phoenixfoundry.com.au www.phoenixfoundry.com.au

Bottle Brush Camellias

Cardinal & Dogwood Daffodils

Dogwood

Lilies Of The Night

GOLD SPONSOR

CORPORATE SPONSORS 2024

PLATINUM SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSORS

GENERAL SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

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

PAST PRESIDENTS HONOUR LIST

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

Your Association 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 takehome 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

John Campbell

Pieter Den Boer

Keith Joyce (Dec)

Karen Hinrichsen

David Lusby (Dec)

Peter Maclean AM

Bruce Macumber

James Mckay

Lawrie Miller OAM

Brendan O'Connor

ARE YOU READY TO BECOME A MEMBER?

Tony O’Connor (Dec)

Greg Taylor (Dec)

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:

Suite North 1 / 215 Bell St, Preston VIC 3072 Australia

T: +61 3 9863 6914

E: admin@accaweb.com.au

W: accaweb.com.au

ACCA EDUCATION TRAINING COURSES

ACCA GRIEF TRAINING SCOPING WORKSHOP - Ben

Kelly

ACCA was thrilled to bring together a number of key stakeholders across the cemetery, crematoria, and funeral industry this month to explore the training needs of our sector. The one-day workshop was run by Donna Plavljanic and the team from Relationships Australia Victoria and focused on some of the issues facing our industry such as staff retention and recruitment, professional development, and changes to community expectations.

The overall aim is to create industryspecific training that will help the industry support and invest in employees, aiding staff retention, and education, and ensure that employees have the right set of skills needed to provide to those who need our services, and further inform our training offering moving forward. A broad range of training topics were considered including de-escalating situations, identifying when professional support might be needed, identifying and managing your own mental health, incorporating sales as an extension of service to our clients and much more.

ACCA will be reaching out to the wider industry with a survey to gather more feedback on the proposed training options. More information will be shared in the near future. This is one of a few very exciting initiatives underway to increase and enhance the level of education and support provided to our members. More info to follow.

In the last financial year 2023-2024, ACCA Education has provided online training to almost 90 participants and in-person training for almost 20 people on-site. Over all the courses have been well-received but we would love to hear your ideas on what else we could be offering to support our members. Email admin@accaweb.com.au to let us know.

We still have some exciting courses coming up in the next few months, if you want to keep track of our courses please see https://accaweb.com.au/about/ events-acca-education/.

All courses are run by Relationships Australia Victoria, with accredited trainers.

SUPPORTING INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES THROUGH VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING

Tuesday 6th August 2024 – interactive online workshop – 12.30pm – 3.30pm AEST

*new workshop*

This workshop have been developed to help the sector understand the legislation around voluntary assisted dying, and to gain the knowledge and skills to confidently and sensitively support individuals and their families, working through their anticipatory grief.

It provides participants with knowledge, skills and resources for providing bereavement care and support to individuals and their families who are processing and encountering anticipatory grief through voluntary assisted dying.

MANAGING STRESS AND BUILDING RESILIENCE

Tuesday 3rd September 2024, Interactive online workshop – 12.30pm – 3.30pm AEST

Audience: Leaders and Managers

In a post-pandemic world, we work in an environment where different perspectives and work practices have allowed us to reconsider the impacts of stress on our professional and personal lives.

It is important to understand what stresses you as this will be different for each person. There are different ways to managed stress, depending on whether it is in your control or not.

THE ACCIDENTAL MEDIATORSUPPORTING GRIEVING FAMILIES

Tuesday 10th October 2024, Interactive online workshop – 12.30pm – 3.30pm AEST

Sometimes we all find ourselves in the role of accidental mediator. This may be when we are trying to support family, friends, work colleagues to manage and resolve issues of conflict. This half day workshop will provide you with the understanding and skills to apply conflict resolution skills and strategies to apply in a variety of settings where a formal mediation process would not be possible or necessary.

To find out more information on how to enrol into this online workshop please email the ACCA Office –admin@accaweb.com.au

ACCA MEMBER NEWS

REMEMBRANCE PARKS CENTRAL VICTORIA

The staff of Remembrance Parks Central Victoria gathered on 22nd May to join Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is a community fundraising event that provides vital funds for people impacted by cancer. RPCV staff raised $365.75 for this great cause.

Thank you to Gail for contributing this article and great photos.

FRASER COAST COUNCIL & SOUTH BURNETT VISIT

Fraser Coast Cemeteries had the pleasure of hosting a visit from South Burnett regional council cemeteries today.

The focus was Establishing collaborative networks, discussing cemetery issues and meet and greet.

Also included a tour of the Heritage listed Maryborough General Cemetery QLD.

Rob Moore

Left to Right: Michael, Tracy - SBRC, Shelley Maree, Rob, Darryle - FCRC Laura, Maddison - SBRC

MEET BARRY: THE SUPPORT DOG BRINGING COMFORT TO DRAYTON & TOOWOOMBA CEMETERY OFFICE

In the serene grounds of the Drayton & Toowoomba Cemetery office, amidst the tranquillity of nature and the solemnity of remembrance, there exists a remarkable presence—a fourlegged friend named Barry. Barry, a unique blend of Corgi and Kelpie, serves as a support dog, spreading joy and comfort to both staff and customers alike.

From the moment Barry sets paw inside the office, his presence is palpable. With his wagging tail and gentle demeanour, he exudes an aura of warmth and compassion that instantly puts people at ease. For staff members navigating the complexities of Interment and memorial arrangements and providing support to grieving families, Barry is a source of solace and respite. His playful antics and unwavering affection offer a welcome

distraction from the emotional toll of their work, reminding them to pause, breathe, and find joy in the present moment.

But Barry’s impact extends far beyond the office walls. As customers enter the cemetery grounds, often burdened with the weight of grief and loss, Barry is there to greet them with a wag of his tail and a friendly nuzzle. His intuitive ability to sense emotions allows him to provide comfort in times of sorrow, offering a listening ear—or rather, a listening snout—and a paw to hold.

One of Barry’s most remarkable qualities is his knack for breaking down barriers and fostering connections. In a setting where conversations can be difficult and emotions run high, Barry serves as a catalyst for communication, bringing people together through the universal language of canine companionship. Visitors who may have arrived feeling isolated or overwhelmed find themselves engaged in conversation, sharing stories of their loved ones and finding solace in each other’s company.

Research has shown that the presence of support animals can have a profound impact on emotional well-being, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. In the case of Barry, his positive influence extends beyond the immediate moment, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter him. Whether it’s the gentle touch of his paw or the warmth of his presence, Barry has a way of touching hearts and lifting spirits, leaving behind a trail of smiles and fond memories.

Of course, Barry’s role as a support dog is not without its responsibilities. He undergoes rigorous training and certification to ensure that he can perform his duties safely and effectively. From basic obedience commands to specialized tasks such as providing comfort during

times of distress, Barry’s training equips him with the skills necessary to excel in his role as a support companion.

In conclusion, Barry the support dog embodies the spirit of compassion and empathy at the Drayton & Toowoomba Cemetery office. Through his unwavering devotion and boundless affection, he brings comfort to staff and customers alike, fostering a sense of community and connection in a place often associated with sorrow and loss. As he continues to spread joy and light to all who cross his path, Barry serves as a shining example of the profound impact that support animals can have in our lives.

WORLD-CLASS CREMATION TECHNOLOGY IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Adelaide Cemeteries is leading the industry in Australia & New Zealand with its world-class cremation technology, now operating a brand-new, advanced cremation filtration system at Enfield Memorial Park.

This cutting-edge technology ensures a minimal carbon footprint and is the only facility in Australasia to use this technology. The technology ensures the efficient removal of harmful emissions, minimising environmental impact and safeguarding air quality. Cremation is a popular choice for families and with this specialist filtration system, South Australians can have peace of mind knowing that Adelaide Cemeteries’

cremation process is environmentally responsible.

Adelaide Cemeteries also remains at the forefront of the cemetery industry when it comes to the commitment to driving improvement of environmental performance, demonstrated through their ISO14001 Environmental Certification.

To get in contact or learn more about Adelaide Cemeteries visit aca.sa.gov.au

FAMILY OR FRIENDS? OR PETS

MUFFIN THE PUG, THE FIRST THERAPY DOG AND PRE-NEED SALES ASSISTANT?

I can still remember my first funeral service. It was my first week at the funeral home. My job was to position myself just inside the entrance to the chapel, just past the guest book and ask people “Are you family or friends today?” We had a limited number of seats in our chapel and we had only reserved 25 seats for the immediate family closest to the front, the next 50 seats were reserved for the extended family and the remainder of seats at the back were left over for friends.

When we ushered the immediate family in and asked everyone to “please stand” a very close friend was observed standing in the back. The son said “please come and sit up front with us, you were dad’s best friend!’ He joined them and it was a lovely service.

Well that was in the mid 1980’s, a long time ago and although a lot has changed in our profession the question “Family or Friends” is still relevant. Has that meaning changed? I dare say it has. Is your end of

life business sensitive to the deceased and family’s closest “friends?” I am not talking about people either, I am talking about pets.

Everywhere I go, and I travel a lot, I see pets everywhere! The pandemic lock downs brought huge growth in the pet industry. Be it companions or emotional support animals or registered service dogs, there was an explosion in the pet industry.

Today I see dogs and cats in strollers at grocery stores. I see them wearing diapers being walked around at the shopping mall. I see them at hotels and motels. I see them at virtually all airports and it is way easier to find a pet comfort area than it is to find a smoking room! Not only is there more visible signage for pets but the spaces are cooler and friendlier too.

From little plastic fire hydrants to pee on to spray hoses and poop bags they have made their spaces friendly to man’s best friend. May I ask you, is your funeral home or cemetery pet friendly?

The first time I saw an emotional support animal was in 1996 in the lower mainland of British Columbia. It was a pug named Muffin. When I arrived at the funeral home for a sales call and opened the door I heard the familiar sound of a “back of the house door bell” ringing. I expected to see a funeral home staffer come from the back and greet me but instead I heard a snuffling, heavy breathing sound and was greeted by a little pug. It approached me and sat at my feet and raised it’s paw to shake hands. I got down on my knee and as I shook the paw a well dressed fellow said “Hi, I see you’ve met our pre-need salesman and grief counselor Muffin.”

After a brief tour and chat I learned that Muffin was a superstar employee. People came by to visit Muffin and Muffin was taken around to meet shut ins and folks at the elder care homes in the area. They told me that Muffin just knows who is hurting

and gets close to them. These folks were well ahead of the curve. They really got people and their new brand flourished!

I visit funeral homes and cemeteries almost daily in my work and not just in Canada but worldwide. How many pet friendly spaces do I see? Precious few. I spoke to many firms recently on becoming pet friendly. How setting up a space similar to what I see at many hotels and airports will build brand loyalty and make people feel more cared for and welcome. It is so easy to do. A cute space for pets to relieve themselves that is easy to maintain is quite simple to construct. All you need is some signage, some artificial turf, a dispenser with bags and a lidded container to deposit the poop. Stainless steel water bowls and paw print stickers add a nice touch too. It’s a synch!

Those who get it embrace it. Those who don’t mostly utter the same things; “That’s all we need is a bunch of dogs running around the funeral home” or “what about allergies” or “what if they bite someone, we’ll get sued” or “my staff won’t make time to clean the human restrooms let alone this kind of space.” You can lead a horse to water but you can not make them drink!

How many emotional support or comfort dogs do I see today? That number is growing albeit slowly. What I do see a lot of is No Dogs Allowed signs at cemeteries! The cemetery operators sometimes tell me it is undignified or the poop is a problem. Funny how a gaggle of Canada geese or ducks in the cemetery’s pond get a pass.

Some innovative providers I’ve met have a dog park spirit in their memorial parks. During certain days and times dogs and their owners are invited to come, feel welcome and play. Some have added pet burial, pet niches or pet scattering gardens so people can be forever close to their faithful companions.

Do you have a special place reserved for friends? Ask yourself this, are people’s pets friends or family?

Some of my best customers, you know, the ones with the highest volume of urn, jewelry & keepsake sales have made space in their business for family friends. Do you have a pet product display in your show room? What about your arrangements office? What about on your website? Do you really serve the entire family?

Last week I visited a busy, legacy firm. You know the kind. Been around forever, great fleet of luxury cars, portraits of the founders and dead owners festooning the walls. While we were chatting a first call came in. It was for a pet. “Our dog died and we’d like your services” I heard the lady say clearly as the director answered. “Madam, we are not a pet funeral home, we only serve people!” I tried to hide my smile. Don’t get me wrong, these are really super and professional people but they lacked something. Instead of referring them to their well vetted partner in pet end of life they simply left them to go shopping, unguided.

I asked them if they get many calls like that? They said a few so at the risk of offending them I took a chance and I went on to ask if they had ever considered that their established brand, their funeral home and their people are actually a community death and end of life resource centre. That they need to be death care experts, grief experts and not merely a human only funeral home brand. They had not so at the risk of losing the account I suggested to them “I’ll bet you just lost a human client family too because of this disconnection with loss, need and care.” They seemed nonplussed and I took their standard order.

Another recent experience further inspired me to write this piece. Upon arriving at a client’s location they said we are super busy so if you want to talk you have to come on a house call. When we arrived at the family home, the guest of honor was in her bed. Her loyal dog was sitting beside the bed. Visibly sad. The dog got a little protective as we approached her still warm owner.

We sat down on the floor for a short while as to be non threatening to the grieving

pup and after some time the dog got used to us and let us do our job. While we were sitting I observed several heart shaped keepsakes with paw prints on them. I commented on their mum’s love for animals and the daughter said you have no idea! She was a magnet for strays and when each of them died she had an urn created for them. She asked if we could bury the urns with their mum to which the director answered of course.

As we were leaving the director then suggested to the daughter to bring the dog to the funeral home for the viewing, to say goodbye and to be there to support the remaining family members. A few days later I called the client back and asked if they mind if I shared my house call experience in an article and they said please do but please don’t mention the city as all they ever wanted was an unfair advantage and their shared love of faithful friends gave them just that!

Jeffrey Chancellor, CFSP

MEMBER PROFILE Jason Lyle

What is your full name, title, company name?

Jason Lyle Director Operations, Geelong Cemeteries Trust

How long have you worked in the cemeteries/ crematoria industry and what do you like most about your role?

I started my career in the cemeteries and crematoria industry with Geelong Cemeteries Trust in 2004 as a trainee backhoe operator/ grounds person.

I, like anyone that has been in the industry for a long time, quickly developed a passion for it, being able to assist families that are facing some of the most difficult times of their lives, and knowing you did a good job (you don’t have to be told by a family that you did well, because when you do, you can feel it yourself), means you go home feeling pretty good about yourself.

There is no better feeling than the giving and receiving of compassion.

Who or what has influenced you most professionally?

I have been very lucky to have worked with the people that I have over the 20 years I have been with GCT.

Names like Darryl Thomas and Frank De Groot are almost household names within the industry, along with new leaders such as my current CEO Dean Matthews, I have been mentored by some inspiring people that have been experts in their chosen fields.

What are some notable/unique differences in this role compared to your previous role?

As mentioned earlier, I started at GCT mowing lawns and learning to dig graves, prior to that I lived in Mildura where I developed grounds and horticulture experience but had never even been to a funeral.

I remember Darryl Thomas telling me that I was successful in gaining employment with GCT after my interview, he started that I would be on a 6-month trial, I remember thinking to myself, don’t worry this is as much a trial for me as it is you, Darryl. Little did I know that I had found my niche (pardon the pun)!

What are some things that are on your ‘bucket list’?

Travel our great country from end to end Catch a 20 kg snapper Get my diving licence

What do you love to do away from work when you have time?

Camping and fishing. I am also an avid reader.

What is a favourite memory of yours?

Horse riding along the Murray River. I rode horses every day of my life from the age of 4 to 19 and have never been on one since. (they say its like riding a bike).

Finish this sentence - ‘Nobody likes a …’

Handlower on a wet and windy day!

Now with more than 60 installations in Australia, including Australia's first fully abated cremator!

FT cremators are not only the most advanced but also the most cost efficient cremators on the market!

Facultatieve Technologies (FT) with over 140 years of experience in cremation is the international market leader in the design, manufacture and maintenance of cremation and filtration equipment.

All serviced and maintained by our Australian based team.

Our products meet the most stringent environmental legislation and we offer cremation solutions worldwide together with a full range of cremation equipment including coffin loaders, cremulators and ash transfer cabinets.

In addition, our dedicated customer care department offers full support and back up and our on-line diagnostics means that we can view any problems remotely and often solve them without the need for an engineer to attend site

Facultatieve Technologies gives advice and support on the whole cremation process

Our product range is extensive and we are therefore able to supply the idealproduct in any situation

Facultatieve Technologiesprovides excellent support and maintenance services anywhere in the world.

FTIII cremator

Loader & transfer trolley

FTIII

Cremulator & ash transfer cabinet Filter

ORTHOMETALS CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF THEIR NEW PREMISES

After a long preparation, June 6 finally marked the official opening of the new premises that Orthometals has moved into. This special moment was combined with the ECN (European Cremation Network) Conference, which made for an extra festive and memorable occasion.

ECN and study trip

The opening of the premises was preceded by the ECN Conference, which included a study trip for participants from Australia and Canada. This trip provided an interesting insight into the cremation industry in Europe. The trip began in Paris with a visit to the famous Père Lachaise Crematorium, followed by a presentation. Participants then traveled to Luxembourg and Germany, where they visited special crematoria and enjoyed local sights.

On June 5, the official opening of the ECN Conference took place during a reception at Hotel Lumen, in the skylounge of the soccer stadium of Zwolle. Here there was plenty of networking, delicious food and drinks, and enjoyed the beautiful view.

Inspiring speakers

On Thursday, June 6, five inspiring speakers awaited the audience. They discussed various topics, with a good dose of humor, including sustainability, evolutions in funeral culture, leadership and creativity, and changes in the funeral industry. The day was felt by many to be “life-changing” and provided much food for thought.

The grand opening

After this inspiring day, it was time for the grand opening of Orthometals’ new premises. This was celebrated with a culinary evening, where food trucks offered

flavors from all over the world. Beautiful songs were sung on the impressive stage and there was plenty of opportunity for networking. During the opening a memoriam tree was unveiled, a beautiful corten steel tree with gold leaves. All attendees had a leaf with their name and company hanging in the tree. This was a special appreciation to the visitors, who had come to Meppel from all over the world.

Emotional speeches and a special surprise

An opening naturally requires a speech, and directors Hidde Verberne and Jan-Willem Gabriëls had prepared an emotional speech. They looked back at the beginnings of Orthometals, founded by Jan Gabriëls and Ruud Verberne, and expressed their gratitude to the staff. “We are incredibly grateful that we got to this point thanks to our fathers, Ruud Verberne and Jan Gabriëls. Our growth has been impressive, but we could not have achieved this without our team and the people who work with us. We greatly appreciate the trust placed in us. This motivates us to do our utmost. We look to the future with optimism. This new building marks a new beginning for further growth and innovation.”

When Jan-Willem thought the speeches were done, Hidde had another big surprise in store. There was a special edition Jack Daniels whiskey bottle made from a unique barrel, packaged in a personalized box. The label of the bottle featured the sketches of the two founders, an emotional gesture

that was greatly appreciated by all. All guests received a personalized whiskey to take home as a memento of the evening.

The new premises

Orthometals’ new premises were designed with great care and attention, with a strong focus on sustainability. As much as 70% of the materials used were recycled. The colors in the building are coordinated with the work, with metallic tones reflected throughout. Orthometals had literally outgrown their previous premises, and the new building provides room for further growth. It features more hall space, more offices, a larger canteen for staff, and various other facilities such as spacious locker rooms with showers and large storage areas.

Crecycling: a sustainable solution

Orthometals is playing an important role in the sustainable future of the cremation industry with their Crecycling process. This unique and completely industry-specific process, which they have developed themselves, ensures efficient recovery of metals from crematoria. All materials are separated, weighed and documented in a highly specialized way, contributing to a more circular industry.

With the opening of their new premises, Orthometals marks a new beginning for further growth and innovation. The future looks promising for this leading company in the cremation industry.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE –SPEAKER UPDATE

Work is well underway preparing the National conference which will be held at the iconic Adelaide Oval from 30 September through to 2nd October this year.

A number of great speakers have been lined up and it is settling out to be a conference not to be missed.

We are pleased to announce that we will be joined by Costa Georgiadis who is a landscape architect, environmental educator, author, and television presenter who has an all-consuming passion for plants and people. As co-creator and host of Costa’s Garden Odyssey for SBS, he caught the attention of a nation. Since 2013, Costa has continued his journey as the much-loved host of one of the ABC’s most iconic and Logie award-winning programs, Gardening Australia.

Costa is deeply involved with the importance of biodiversity and habitat, regenerative agriculture, permaculture and holistic land practices that deal with the issues arising from a rapidly urbanising world. The story of soil is a driving narrative for him. Costa is actively

involved in delivering his message to the broader community, including in his role as Ambassador for Junior Landcare.

Costa has experience working in the cemetery sector during his extensive career and recently gave a very passionate speech at the celebration of the state one completion of SMCT’s Project Cultivate.

We will also be joined by Sally Douglas and Imogen Cam from the Good Mouring podcast. Sal and Im have created a worldwide community providing authentic grief support and encouraging more candid conversations in the wider community about Grief Mental health, death and dying. We are excited to have Sal and Im join us.

Our theme for this year’s conference is “Shaping the Future Together:. We have lined up a host of exciting speakers on topics such as the future of cemeteries and memorialisation, cemetery designs, new initiatives and technologies from overseas, Monument safety, environmental and asset management as well as talks and displays on new technologies and artificial intelligence

More information on our speakers will be shared in the coming weeks. Registration and accommodation booking will commence shortly.

The theme for this year’s ACCA Annual Conference is “Shaping the Future Together,” a theme that aligns seamlessly

with ACCA’s strategic direction following the comprehensive review conducted last year.

“Shaping the Future Together” refers to collaboratively driving innovation and improvement across all facets of the industry. It involves uniting operators, suppliers, funeral directors, academic institutions, and government bodies to address current challenges and anticipate future needs.

By working together, we can develop and implement best practices, advance educational initiatives, enhance regulatory standards, and adopt new technologies and sustainable practices.

This collective effort ensures that we not only meet the evolving expectations of the communities we serve but also set a forward-thinking example for the global cemetery and cremation industry.

The event this year is at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide and will be three days running from Monday 30th September through to Tuesday 2nd October. The iconic Adelaide Oval, on the edge of the city, within minutes of the vibrant city centre and surrounding parklands.

Registrations are now open – if you haven’t received an email with the details please let us know admin@accaweb.com.au

0 2 4 C O N F E R E N C E

C O S T A G E O R G I A D I S

C o s t a G e o r g i a d i s i s a l a n d s c a p e

a r c h i t e c t , e n v i r o n m e n t a l e d u c a t o r ,

a u t h o r a n d t e l e v i s i o n p r e s e n t e r

w h o h a s a n a l l ‐ c o n s u m i n g p a s s i o n

f o r p l a n t s a n d p e o p l e .

J E F F C H A N C E L L O R

J e f f i s a n e x p e r i e n c e d e m b a l m e r ,

f u n e r a l d i r e c t o r , c r e m a t o r y

o p e r a t o r , f u n e r a l c e l e b r a n t ,

c o n s u l t a n t a n d a u t h o r .

G O O D M O U R N I N G

A s t w o y o u n g w o m e n w h o l o s t o u r

m o t h e r s s u d d e n l y , w e f o u n d

o u r s e l v e s s e a r c h i n g f o r

i n f o r m a t i o n a n d s u p p o r t .

O T H E R S P E A K E R S A N D T O P I C S

M o r e s p e a k e r s t o c o m e c l o s e r t o t h e d a t e , k e e p a n e y e o n

e m a i l a n d s o c i a l m e d i a .

P l e a s e n o t e s o m e s p e a k e r s a n d d e t a i l s m a y c h a n g e

C O N F E R E N C E P R O G R A M

D A Y 1 - I N T R O D U C T I N G E N F I E L D T O U R & E X P O

C O N F E R E N C E F I R S T D A Y

A d e l a i d e C e m e t e r i e s h a v e g e n e r o u s l y o f f e r e d t o s h o w c a s e

E n f i e l d M e m o r i a l P a r k t o o p e n t h i s y e a r ’ s A C C A A n n u a l

C o n f e r e n c e . T h e r e w i l l b e w e l c o m e d r i n k s a n d f o o d p r o v i d e d ,

t o u r s o f t h e n e w f a c i l i t y , a n d e d u c a t i o n a l t a l k s o n t h e i n d u s t r y -

l e a d i n g t e c h n o l o g y i n c r e m a t i o n e m i s s i o n c o n t r o l s a n d t h e u s e

o f n e w t e c h n o l o g y t o a s s i s t i n t h e o p e r a t i o n o f t h e c e m e t e r y .

T h e r e w i l l a l s o b e a t r a d e s h o w o n - s i t e s h o w c as i n g e m e r g i n g

t e c h n o l o g y s u c h a s e l e c t r i c a n d r e m o t e - c o n t r o l g r o u n d

e q u i p m e n t

T h e c e m e t e r y i s h o m e t o t h e E v e r g r e e n C o m m u n i t y P r o j e c t ; a

n e w w o r l d - c l a s s f a c i l i t y t h a t i s a o n c e - i n - a - g e n e r a t i o n p r o j e c t

a n d s i g n a l s a $ 2 5 M i n v e s t m e n t i n t o M e m o r i a l P a r k a n d t h e

c o m m u n i t y .

T h e E n f i e l d T o u r a n d T r a d e s h o w w i l l r u n f r o m m i d - a f t e r n o n t o

e a r l y e v e n i n g ; f o o d a n d d r i n k s w i l l b e p r o v i d e d

H I G H L I G H T S C O N F E R E N C E P R O G R A M

H I G H L I G H T S

This years conference will follow a similar format to last year with a mix of main room and break out sessions and will include talks on the topics;

Cemetery design

Monument safety

Limited tenure for burials

Cemetery Asset management

Education and new training

NSW Cemetery regulations

Updates from State Cemetery and Crematoria associations

Lessons learnt from the overseas study tours and conferences attended by members

As well as talks from

Compassionate communities

Living Legacy forest

Death Tech Research team

As well as updates from our sponsors and suppliers.

And so much more

Final schedule will be released in the coming weeks.

LAUNCH OF COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITIES AUSTRALIA

Weaving connection and compassion across Australia as we live, care, die and grieve together.

On 27 March 2024, Compassionate Communities Australia (CCAus) was launched by the Western Australian Governor at Government House in Perth, with many national and international colleagues joining online. This launch marked a significant milestone for Compassionate Communities in Australia.

Prof Allan Kellehear, Founder of Compassionate Communities, said “CCAus is a significant international development....it is incredibly important in the history of public health and also in the history of hospice and palliative care in Australia...CCAus will be the pioneering organisation for the development of Compassionate Communities across Australia...it will ensure that the light stays on and burns brightly in Australia and beyond.”

This much-needed National Peak body brought together Professor Samar Aoun, Dr Stephen Ginsborg, Dr Joanne Doran, and Harpreet Kalsi-Smith joining forces to bring their unique perspective including research, palliative care, primary care, community development and personal experience.

In Professor Aoun’s speech at the launch, she shared, “this national not-for-profit organisation aims to become a hub of knowledge, skills and resources for community-led solutions that lead to social and systems change”.

Dr Joanne Doran spoke fondly about “a young patient with complex needs who is dying, but she was not complex to her community who came together with compassion and connection to enable her to continue to experience the joy of living ”.

Steve Arnott, Harpreet Kalsi-Smith, Rob McKenzie, Prof Samar Aoun, His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Mrs Darrilyn Dawson, Dr Jo Doran, Dr Stephen Ginsborg

Dr Stephen Ginsborg highlighted, “...that there is art to medicine, and that warmth, empathy and compassion may surpass the surgeon’s knife or the chemist’s drug. The most powerful therapeutic tool that the doctor possesses is herself or himself”.

Harpreet Kalsi-Smith brought her personal experience as a consumer advocate and highlighted that “the heart of the work of compassionate communities primarily sits in community development”.

Zaki Dorkham, Kristy Constandine (CE Bunbury Cemetery Board),

Ben Kelly (CEO, Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association)

Compassionate Communities Australia’s role will be to grow connectedness and compassion, working together with community, industry and the health sector, to create a supportive environment for those in need. To view the speeches made by the CCAus Directors go to

https://studio.youtube.com/video/ HD3SyIVAexA/edit

The speech made by Professor Kellehear can be viewed at https://youtu.be/ mDzuJalGxgI

For more information go to: www.compassionatecommunities.au

Thank you to Professor Samar Aoun for sharing this article with us.

AI AND DEATHCARE

As Jurassic Park’s Dr. Ian Malcolm, as played by Jeff Goldblum, supposed, “Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.”

The AI genie is well and truly out of the bottle and is already beginning to transform almost every industry imaginable - from healthcare and education, to security, finance and beyond.

In simple terms, AI is, “the simulation of human intelligence processed by machines.” [1], in effect, “a machine’s ability to simulate some of the cognitive functions we usually associate with human minds.” [2], as well as all of the tech that enables that to happen.

Businesses are exploring and tapping into the myriad of opportunities presented by innovations in generative AI in particularthe techniques powered by ‘deep-learning models’ that can generate content based on the data they’re trained on [3] - and of which Open AI’s chatbot du jour, ChatGPT is a prime example.

AI, of course, is already embedded in our daily experience - it may not be a surprise to learn, for example, that AI is used extensively by google across it’s range of products and services; using our interactions with its search engine, such as what we look for, to develop and improve the machine learning technologies that power them. [4]

All of which poses the questionis it a good thing?

For its many benefits - to the world of medicine, for example, in its potential for improving disease diagnosis, treatment selection or lab testing [5], there also comes pause for thought with regards to issues of bias, ethics, privacy, security, or even job displacement [6].

With all of that in mind, what place does

AI have within the deathcare and funeral industry, what are the benefits it offers to deathcare providers, and how can we avoid the potential pitfalls?

Maintaining the human touch

At first reading, concepts such as ‘machine learning’, ‘cognitive computing’, or ‘data mining’ may seem wholly incompatible with an industry that places such importance on empathy.

But, as recognised by Ring Ring Marketing’s Welton Hong, these tools aren’t replacing human interaction, they’re enhancing them. [7]

Which is a very important distinction to make.

Ethics

New and evolving technologies are inherently tied to the human experience, and as such, where we are to embrace that change, it’s important that we do so responsibly.

Putting aside the for and againsts of an AI singularity (some believing it will eventually open vast insights into physics, biology and the cosmos, [8] while others, something more akin to the beginning of The Terminator), there are a number of considerations in the here and now that it would be reasonable to acknowledge.

For example, AI uses large amounts of data when learning, making decisions and generating outputs - and it’s here where issues relating to how data is used and the security of that data come to the fore.

There are clearly important considerations around privacy and confidentiality, which also relate in a practical way to issues of consent and authenticity; for example when creating digital memorials or representations of loved ones; and another potential issue, as one commentator points out, [9] of blurring the line between reality and a simulation when attempting to replicate a person.

We may, in broader terms, also point to ethical considerations relating to biases, accountability and transparency, which undoubtedly will continue to be part of the discourse relating to AI, but when approached responsibly, need not undermine the many advantages and benefits it can provide.

And which is why that many businesses, such as PlotBox have adopted selfgoverning AI policies that hold them accountable to standards around the ethical, secure and responsible use of AI across their products and services.

As PlotBox CEO Sean McAllister says,

“We are deeply committed to the responsible use of AI technology. Our approach ensures that AI enhances our services while respecting the sensitivity required in the deathcare industry.

We use AI in many facets of the business, for use in internal productivity gains, and continually seek out the most cutting edge solutions to ultimately serve our customers better. The PlotBox platform has adopted and embedded many AI capabilities with a strong road map to further improve the solution as a whole.

We see AI transforming deathcare management by introducing greater efficiency and offering new ways to support families during their times of need, ultimately making the entire experience smoother and more respectful for everyone involved.”

Advantages of AI

Now that we’ve given due consideration to the inherent nature of AI, what are some of the benefits it can provide for cemeteries, crematoria and funeral homes?

Forbes identifies 9 key benefits of AI for businesses in 2024 [10]. These include:

The reduction of human error - helping to save both time and resources; the automation of repetitive tasks and

resources such as data collection or entry;

the smooth handling of big data - helping faster decision-making;

chatbots and digital assistantssupporting basic customer service needs; performing risky tasks efficiently; medical applications - such as predicting health risks;

improving workflows and processesincreasing efficiencies and productivity; and full time availability - meaning it is a resource that can be accessed at any time needed.

What does this mean for deathcare?

According to a report by Gitnux, AI is set to revolutionise deathcare by, “improving operational efficiency, personalising services and enhancing the overall customer experience, with applications of AI set to increase by 12% each year over the next seven years.” [11]

This same report suggests that AI can potentially save 20% on operations costs, while an analysis by Global Market insights suggests that it can potentially funeral planning time by up to 30%, while a UC San Diego posits that AI can reduce human errors by 37%.

Moreover, in a survey conducted by the National Funeral Directors Association, nearly 55.3% of funeral professionals showed interest in adopting AI technology in their operations.

Practical applications of AI in deathcare

So far, so theoretical - so how can we apply this to day to day operations in cemeteries, crematoria and funeral homes? Here are just a few of the many examples:

The automation of routine administrative tasks, such as the processing paperwork is a clear winner in terms of giving time back to staff to focus on the compassionate care of families;

AI’s ability to easily process large sets of data allows deathcare providers to analyze consumer trends and behaviours, and in becoming more ‘data-driven’ adapt

strategies to meet evolving customer needs, habits and preferences;

Chatbots integrated into websites or apps can enhance customer service by providing in-the-moment information on services or packages;

Natural language Processing (NLP)which combines computational linguistics with learning models to understand, recognise and generate text [12], can analyse and extract textual data, reducing time spent on manual data entry, and in terms of genealogy, is able to analyse historical records for information that can uncover hidden histories;

Inventory intelligence tools used within PlotBox, for example, that harness AI technologies including smart data verification and audit reports, help to analyse the data you have in a way that helps to identify risk and errors, while potentially uncovering hidden inventory.

In terms of sales and marketing, AI provides opportunities in terms of lead generation by optimising your CRM’s capabilities - helping to identify and qualify leads, then providing insights to provide them with the right information at the right time;

There are also many ways in which AI can aid in memorialisation, such as in the creation of interactive, virtual experiences and platforms; while another useful way is in helping families to create obituaries for loved ones.

Manually writing obituaries can be both time-consuming and emotionally challenging for families during a difficult time. Solutions such as the PlotBox AI Obituary Assistant enable the generation of personalised obituaries based on prompts about the loved one, which can then be refined to create a powerful, personalised and meaningful tribute. This not only enhances customer care by relieving some of that emotional burden, but saves time for both the family and the deathcare provider to spend on practical arrangements.

Balancing empathy with innovation

AI is here to stay, and while it isn’t necessarily a magic bullet that will run your

operation for you, or solve every problem, there is an important place for it within deathcare - in giving time back to focus on what matters most.

According to hubspot in their state of ai report, 95% of professionals using AI say that it helps them to spend less time on manual tasks, and more time on the most important parts of their role (88%).[13]

What does that time back look like for you?

For many, it will provide the opportunity to do some things better, to do things they haven’t done before, or to enhance the things they’re already doing.

It’s important to remember that AI in and of itself remains without emotion; so while it excels at automating tasks, processing data, creating content, making quick decisions and providing diagnoses, we as humans bring the creativity, empathy, and nuanced understanding to allow to bring together the best of both in providing a compassionate service to families.

So while Jurassic Park’s Dr. Ian Malcolm may have a point relating to rampaging dinosaurs, perhaps for now, we can remain positive about what AI can do for us.

Refs.

[1] https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/ definition/AI-Artificial-Intelligence

[2] https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/ mckinsey-explainers/what-is-ai

[3] https://research.ibm.com/blog/what-is-generative-AI [4] https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/1395 4172?hl=en#zippy=%2Chow-data-helps-google-developgenerative-ai-in-search

[5] https://bmcmededuc.biomedcentral.com/ articles/10.1186/s12909-023-04698-z

[6] https://www.simplilearn.com/advantagesand-disadvantages-of-artificial-intelligencearticle#:~:text=The%20benefits%20of%20AI%20 include,the%20advancement%20of%20autonomous%20vehicles.

[7] Artificial Intelligence, is it the Key to Staying Relevant? W. Hong, Memento Mori Mar/Apr 24

[8} https://emeritus.org/in/learn/what-is-ai-singularity/ [9] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ais-impact-funeralprofession-balancing-promise-peril-dna-memorial/

[10] https://www.forbes.com/advisor/in/business/ software/advantages-of-ai/

[11] https://gitnux.org/ai-in-the-death-careindustry/#:~:text=Foreign%20object%20identification%20 by%20AI,issuance%20and%20corrections%20by%20 40%25.

[12] https://www.ibm.com/topics/natural-languageprocessing

[13] https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/state-of-ai-report

CEMETERY TRAINING DAY 2024

QUEENSLAND (TOOWOOMBA)

Education and training of our members are key to ensuring continual improvement and ongoing success in this industry. Recently, ACCA organized a Cemetery Training and Trade Day at the beautiful Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery, which is part of the Toowoomba Regional Council.

The event, primarily aimed at frontline administration and operations staff, was well-attended, with representatives from most private and local government-run cemeteries in southern Queensland, as well as attendees from other parts of Queensland and interstate.

We had several excellent speakers covering a range of topics:

• Christine Smyth, one of Australia’s leading experts in Succession and Estate Law, gave a talk on burial rights and estate law.

• Helen Tuton from SMCT provided a very interesting talk on the progress of Project Cultivate and offered valuable information on how this project can be implemented in other cemeteries nearing the end of their operational life.

• Jason Lyle from Geelong Cemetery Trust and Tim Rosen from the City of Gold Coast each discussed different aspects of cemetery safety.

• Chantell Anderson and Chris Harrington from Final Touch gave an informative talk on compassionate selling, which is crucial when dealing with grieving families.

• Lisa Herbert, author of The Bottom Drawer Book, conducted the first of what we hope will be many historical cemetery tours, sharing amazing stories of the residents of this historic cemetery.

The star of the show was Barry, the Cemetery Dog; Kerena, who runs the Toowoomba team, gave a great talk on how Barry positively impacts the staff and families who visit the cemetery.

A big thank you to our wonderful sponsors who joined us in Toowoomba: Arrow Bronze, Phoenix Foundry, PlotBox, OpusXenta, Final Touch, and Hyqual. It was also great to see so many new trade exhibitors, including electric mowers and heavy machinery.

Thank you as well to Kerena and the team at Toowoomba for their assistance in making this a successful event. ACCA is committed to providing more training opportunities to its members. If you have any suggestions or would be keen to host an event in our region, please reach out.

Helping make the choice a little easier

There is no doubt that you have a lot to go through with a family when they are sitting across from you so we hope this will help you guide the conversation when it comes to what they may want to do with their loved one’s ashes.

Often while there is so much to decide on when arranging a service or memorial, the urn can be the last piece of connection and can have a lasting impression on how they wish to take them home, scatter or inter.

You learn so much about what made the relationship special, memories they have shared, personal interests and more, in your time with the family. And this is another scenario where this information can support them in making a choice that feels right to them.

Below are a few little tips we have gathered from our clients across Australia.

Assumptions

The biggest thing to avoid when assisting with an urn selection is making the decision for them. While it may not make sense to us, they may have a totally different view than us on a style, colour, material or more.

Assumptions to avoid:

• They won’t want to inter an urn

• They don’t want to split the ashes

• They are scattering so can use the PVC return box

• They aren’t ready to make a decision

• They didn’t want to spend money on flowers, so they won’t want to on an urn

We can sometimes feel that we are‘selling’them another item when it comes to an urn. While an urn is a product, it is also an experience, one they will keep for a very long time. What you are providing is invaluable service that can really make an impact. It’s not about the scattering tube being easier to open, it’s about the value it will provide on the day of a scattering, when gathered together for that next step in the celebration of life.

Some qualifying questions

• Are you looking to take them home?

• Do you know if you will be keeping the ashes or if they will be split with other family members?

• Did they have any wishes that you were aware of when it came to their ashes?

• If you were thinking to scatter, have you considered a scattering tube, it makes that process a little easier.

Suggesting options based on what you know.

• I remember you mentioned you had a photo shoot with Mum before she passed, the photo urn is a beautiful way to both display this image and bring Mum home

• I know Dad loved fishing, here are a few choices that would symbolise this

• We have a range of water placement urns, that would be beautiful for when you have the memorial with your family at the beach in a few weeks

Urn categories

• Homewares

• Traditional

• For little ones

• Ceramic

• Outdoor

• Companion

+61 7 3889 9607

www.finaltouchaustralia.com.au sales@finaltouchaustralia.com.au

3/13 Strathwyn St Brendale QLD 4500

• Photo boxes

• Eco

• Full size

• Keepsakes

• Jewellery

Crecycling. Our invention. Our passion.

Curious? Scan the QR.

Crecycling is the sustainable solution for crematoria. Together we are working towards a more circular industry.

Reliable, efficient, transparent.

It is hard to believe our National Convention has come and gone and we are already halfway through the year. We are delighted with the success of the first aligned convention with the Australian Institute of Embalming (AIE) which served to strengthen the relationships and mutual learning between our two professional groups. Thank you to the AFDA National Council and AIE Board and members of both associations for embracing this new approach.

AFDA was fortunate to have Greg Shorland provide an update on AFDA’s online learning portal the Funeral Learning Hub at the convention in Adelaide including new courses and exciting initiatives such as Artificial Intelligence coming soon to the Funeral Learning Hub. The AFDA Funeral Learning Hub continues to thrive, with nearly 600 members now registered and learning. Additionally, over 250 digital badges have been issued. The Digital Badges, supplied through Credly can be easily shared by AFDA members on social media, showcasing a member’s knowledge and achievements as well as information on the learning level attained. Among our most sought-after courses are Introduction to the Funeral Industry; The Arrangement and Funeral; and Care of the Deceased.

In addition to launching the online Funeral Learning Hub in the past financial year, we have dedicated resources to reviewing the AFDA Constitution and Bylaws. This review is nearly complete, and then AFDA members will have the opportunity to view the updated documents before they are finalised. A special thank you to the Hon Stephen Parry, Don Burstow, Deanne McLeod and Andrew Pinder for their hard work and diligence.

AFDA REPORT

Australian Funeral Directors Association

AFDA continues to focus on brand awareness and our top priority is promoting the AFDA and encouraging families to seek services from our member firms during their time of loss. We regularly engage in media interviews and collaborate with organisations like Palliative Care Australia, GriefLink SA, COTA SA Rainbow Hub, Critical Info, and My Tributes to raise awareness of AFDA and our members.

We are pleased to announce that the 2025 AFDA National Convention will be held at the New World Saigon Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam over four days from Monday 24 – Thursday 27 March 2025. We encourage ACCA members to mark these dates in your diaries now for what promises to be an exciting destination and celebration of AFDA’s 90th anniversary. To make the most of Vietnam, the education program will be split into three half day programs to allow the afternoons for free time or scheduled activities, one being ‘Experience Saigon City Sights’ and the ‘War Remnants Museum’. The National Convention will still include the traditional Welcome Reception, Convention Dinner and President’s Gala Dinner with Presidential Changeover Ceremony. Additional tours to the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels will be planned for the day after the convention on Friday 28 March. We hope many ACCA members will be able to join us for this remarkable event in Vietnam next year.

Over the next few months, I will be attending each of the AFDA Divisional Annual General meetings to engage with as many AFDA members and stakeholders as possible and provide them with an update of AFDA activities. This is a busy time of year, but it is also one of the best times to catch up with industry colleagues and recognise the essential work that we all do in our communities. The dedication of our Divisional and National Councillors

is a testament to the commitment of our industry leaders. Their contributions to advocacy, media, governance, education, training, and strategic planning are deeply appreciated.

I look forward to meeting and connecting with ACCA members at the upcoming AGMs in Darwin, Hobart, and Perth – the programs for these weekends are coming together beautifully and I encourage ACCA members to join us.

Regards

Kelly Scott National President

20 24 CCASA INFORMATION FORUM

Dates: Thursday 24 and Friday 25 October 2024

Venue: Bridgeport Hotel, Murray Bridge

More information to be sent out soon.

Accommodation now available!

To secure your room click below or use code CCASA on the Bridgeport Hotel Website

BOOK ACCOMMODATION

STATE REPORT

Cemeteries & Crematoria Association of Western Australia

‘When Hello becomes Goodbye’, was the title of the CCAWA Seminar this April at the Sebel Hotel, Mandurah, WA. Once again the CCAWA Board conveyed a high standard of industry knowledge to be shared, connections to be gained, plus every opportunity to learn from those in the room or connect with ZOOM presenters.

It all started with the bus tour of the Pinjarra and St. Johns Church Cemetery tour. Our tour guide, Sarah Garbin from the Shire of Murray shared her knowledge of history, layout of their cemetery, rising issues, new modelling and thoughts of the future, very informative with many of us taking photos to take back to our own communities for referral. Then…. onto the lawn area of Edenvale for a light afternoon tea where we met, dueling teams chosen, laughter to be heard and I am sure passer byes REALLY wanted to join in our festivities! But what a fun way to make connections and the start of our networking journey this year. Then back to the hotel to get ready for an evening meal and further networking opportunities, building LEGO, yes you read right LEGO! Amazing evening of fun and laughter and sheer concentration together. A huge shout out to Murphy’s Irish Pub in Mandurah for a great shared meal and a cold pint.

The seminar ‘When Hello becomes Goodbye’ welcomed all guests, presenters and sponsors to such an informative day. From the keynote speaker Kelli Peirce, on grief and bereavement for those taking the IVF road to parenthood, Joe Scurria with legal information on ashes and GROB’s, Palliative Care with Prof. Samar Aoun, Sharon Todd and her ‘Towards the Dreaming – Culturally sensitive funerals for Indigenous families, Fiona Hurst with Cemetery Safety, finishing with Melissa Macron and Leigh Milligan sharing the knowledge of how Small Shires manage completing Record Documents whether they hold 1 – 100 funerals a year. The

‘Peter MacLean Award’ is always a highlight in WA and was awarded to Sean White from Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, Rockingham.

Lunch, morning and afternoon teas, gave many of us a moment to chat with the sponsors, to view new products, industry innovations and catalogues plus covert lollies and chocolates to enjoy later through the day. The evening meal, once again provided time for networking, thanking and far welling those who travelled from interstate, needing to catch the red eyes home.

I would personally like to express my gratitude to the CCAWA Board for their time and skills to bring us all together over two great days, and I am sure those attending would also agree! Hip Hip Hooray!!

Written by Lorreen Greeuw, CCAWA Board Director representing the Shire of Kojonup

BUSSELTON WAR MEMORIAL

The new Busselton War Memorial was officially opened and consecrated on 22 April 2024.

The project was initiated in 2016 and led by the Returned Services League (RSL) Busselton Sub Branch and RSL WA in collaboration with the City of Busselton. It was funded by the City and a significant grant from the “Saluting Their Service” Commemorative Grant from the Department of Veteran Affairs.

Through extensive public consultation and engagement in 2022 and 2023, input was received and considered from community members and community groups, including the Rotary Club of Busselton Geographe Bay, Busselton Historical Society and Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation.

The Busselton War Memorial has been designed to be a visually striking tribute, paying homage to past and present servicemen and women, as well as providing a space for peaceful reflection.

A ‘sword’ shaped walkway leads visitors to the War Memorial Monument which features a carved wreath of Wattle flowers and Eucalypt leaves. Representing the Australian Defence Force, Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army and the Royal Australian Air Force, four Sentinels from the Capes region surround the War Memorial.

Hancock Memorials manufactured, engraved and carved the main components of the memorial, with the sentinel boulders being sourced from the Leeuwin quarry in Margaret River, the main memorial and honour roll is kalca granite from Streaky Bay in SA and the sandstone entry plinths are from Donnybrook WA.

The two Honour walls sitting on either side of the monument, list the servicemen who died from World War I, World War II and the Vietnam War.

Along the walkway there are bronze plaques with the names of 180 Busselton serviceman and women from World War I.

STATE REPORT

Cemeteries & Crematoria Association of New South Wales

Insights24

A Successful Seminar

The CCANSW Insights24 Governance and Compliance

Seminar held in Sydney 16-17 May featured a lineup of experienced leaders and experts sharing their knowledge, challenges, strategies, solutions and insights.

Highlights included CEOs Kate Davidson MBE (Dignity PLC, UK) and Andrew Eriksen (GMCT, VIC) sharing their reform journeys; Jennifer Hickey, CCNSW Regulator the for Interment Industry Scheme; Angela Uilderks on organisational change; and Estelle Muspratt (Office of War Graves).

“Informative and the perfect chance to network, receive and share support within our sector”

The diverse program included an interactive panel, on-stage interview and pop-up round tables which enhanced the keynote, speaker and partner presentations. Thank you to all who attended this great event.

See the reel: ccansw.org.au/news > Insights24: Seminar Wrap-up

Starring Awards

We congratulate Kimm Christie, 2024 recipient of the CCANSW Award for Excellence. With extensive cemeteries experience, Kimm says:

“While the industry is both challenging yet rewarding it is why I continue to thrive in all of its aspects”

Our 2024 Rising Star, Alex Smith will be sponsored for a one-week work experience at a cemetery or crematoria facility of his choice.

See the story: ccansw.org.au/ news > CCANSW 2024 Awards

Upcoming at CCANSW

June-July: Membership Renewals secretary@ccansw.org.au

Education and Training

13 July: Understanding Bereaved Clients

13-14 August: Religious Diversity and Mourning Rituals

September: Cemetery Safety

NEXT SEMINAR: SAVE THE DATE 7-8 November: Hunter Valley NSW Visit ccansw.org.au for more info

CATHOLIC CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIA TRUST RECOGNISED AS A CHARITABLE CEMETERY OPERATOR

Sydney, Australia - [01/07/2024] - After a decade of concerted effort, crucial legislation was passed on 21 June 2024 by the NSW parliament that ensures the future of Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria Trust as a charitable cemetery operator.

This means Catholic Cemeteries can continue to provide affordable, equitable and accessible burial and cremation services to Sydneysiders of all cultural and religious backgrounds.

The Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria Trust Bill, introduced by Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper was aimed at implementing the two-operator model for the Crown cemeteries sector, with the other operator the state-controlled Metropolitan Memorial Parks.

The legislation provides certainty and clarifies the purpose of Catholic Cemeteries as providing burials for all and addresses the growing burial space pressures being felt by many of Sydney’s faith groups.

Kamper who has successfully bought the matter to a conclusion said of the bill “The two Crown cemetery operators will ensure continued quality burial and cremation services for our communities.”

Catholic Cemeteries CEO, Lauren Hardgrove said the law marks the end of almost a decade of indecision and uncertainty for the organisation, which received more than 30 letters of support from major faith groups on the bill.

“We’ve been operating in this space for more than a hundred years for the people of Sydney, and this legislation doesn’t change that,” she said.

“This ensures that our successor entity continues to operate as a charitable cemetery operator in this space, providing services not only for Catholics, but those of all faiths and those of none.”

Steve Kamper and Lauren Hardgrove

Powerful Software Solutions for Cemeteries and Crematoria

Cemeteries

Streamline your operations, satisfy compliance, and manage financials with our dedicated solutions, so you can focus on what matters most; delivering quality services to families. opusxenta.com  1300 994 853

COLUMBARIUM SURROUNDS

Plant

many options to individualise these surrounds. Numerous layout options.

MEMORIAL POLES

Fully customizable with options including color choice, finishes, ashes interment, stained glass windows, slices, curves, glass, or glow in the dark aggregate etc

These memorial poles look lovely in garden beds or lining pathways.

CREMATORY SUPPLIES

we’ve got you covered!

CREMATOR PARTS

Our range offers parts for certain models including filters, thermocouples, blades and chart pens.*

1800 77 77 44 office@hyqual.com www.hyqual.com 31 Enterprise St, Caloundra QLD, 4551

ACCESSORIES

Don’t forget the extras –bamboo ash boxes, ash containers, ash bags, cremator rollers and brushes!

At Hyqual Australia we make it our priority to cater to the diverse needs of the Funeral Industry.

We offer a range of supplies to cater the growing demand of cremations, including parts for certain cremator models.*

See the full range on our website or call us with any questions!

Crem Rollers

ACCA BROCHURES

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.

HOW TO ORDER

Please email admin@accaweb.com.au for an order form. Simply complete and return via email where our friendly staff are waiting to process your order. Order Today!

INDUSTRY EVENTS 2024

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 2024/2025. 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..

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.

ARROW BRONZE

Death Care Industry KOKODA TREK

Friday 19th - Sunday 28th July. Papua New Guinea.

ACCA

Annual Conference & Trade Exhibition

Monday 30th September - Wednesday 2nd October. The Adelaide Oval, SA.

NFDA

National Funeral Directors Association (USA) International Conventions and Expo Sunday 20th - Wednesday 23rd October. New Orleans.

CCASA

Cemeteries Crematoria Association of South Australia Conference

Thursday 24th - Friday 25th October. (Location TBC)

CCANSW

Cemeteries Crematoria Association of NSW Conference 8th - 9th November. Regional (Location TBC)

CANA

CANA’s 106th Cremation Innovation Convention 11th - 13th September. Fairmont Chicago Millennium, Chicago.

ICCM

ICCM Learning Conference and Exhibition 2024 Monday 23rd - Wednesday 25th September. Chesford Grange Hotel.

ICCFA

DEAD Talks 2025!

4th - 6th February, 2025. Park MGM, Las Vegas.

FDANZ

2025 Conference 10th - 12th February, 2025.

MBNA

2025 Monument Industry Show 13th - 16th March, 2025. Cleveland.

WEBSITES

ACCA accaweb.com.au

AFE asiafuneralexpo.com

AIE aieptyltd.org

AFDA afda.org.au

CANA cremationassociation.org

CASA cemeteriessa.com.au

CCANSW ccansw.org.au

CCAV ccav.org.au

CSGB cremation.org.uk

Devota devota.at

FBCA fbca.org.uk

FDA (NSW) fdansw.com.au

FDANZ fdanz.org.nz

FIAT-IFTA thanos.org

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

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

Lismore Memorial Gardens Crematorium & Cemeteries

PO Box 23A, Lismore, NSW 2480 e: council@lismore.nsw.gov.au p: (02) 6625 0500 w: www.lismore.nsw.gov.au

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: 0417 601 308

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

PO Box 21, 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 8827

Brisbane City Council Cemeteries & Crematoria

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

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

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

e: nicholas.burfield@bundaberg.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4130 4477

Burdekin Shire Council

PO Box 974, Ayr, QLD 4807 e: tonia.marano@burdekin.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4783 9918

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

Darling Downs Cremation Service

1020 Ruthven Street Toowoomba 4358 e: trevor@burstows.com.au p: (07) 4636 9600

Fraser Coast Regional Council

PO BOX 1943, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655 e: cemeteries@frasercoast.qld.gov.au p: 1300 794 929

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: mailbox@lvrc.qld.gov.au

p: (07) 5468 4989

Logan City Council

177 Chambers Flat Road, Marsden QLD 4132 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

Moreton Bay Regional Council

PO Box 159, Caboolture, QLD 4510 e: darren.meinen@moretonbay.qld.gov.au p: (07) 3205 0555

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

Nudgee Cemetery & Crematorium

493 St Vincent Road, Nudgee, QLD 4014 e: cemetery@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: memorialgardens@rrc.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4934 8374

Ross Funerals (Fraser Coast Crematorium and Bayside Memorial Gardens)

PO Box 1072, Hervey Bay QLD 4655 e: info@rossfunerals.com.au p: (07) 4124 7521

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

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

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

Townsville City Council

PO Box 1268 Townsville QLD 4810 e: townsville.cemeteries@townsville.qld.gov.au p: (07) 4727 9330

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: 1300 972 753

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

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: dudleypk@adam.com.au p: (08) 8344 2973

Salisbury Memorial Park (City of Salisbury)

PO Box 8, Salisbury, SA 5108

e: cemetery@salisbury.sa.gov.au p: (08) 8406 8386

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

Box Hill Cemetery Trust

395 Middleborough Road, Box Hill VIC 3128 e: gb@boxhillcemetery.com.au p: (03) 9890 1229

Eltham Cemetery Trust

PO Box 423, Eltham VIC 3095 e: admin@elthamcemetery.com p: (03) 9432 1963

Geelong Cemeteries Trust

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

Mildura Cemeteries Trust

P.O. Box 105, Mildura VIC 3502 e: danielle.mazzini@mildura.vic.gov.au p: (03) 5018 8202

Rememberance Parks Central Victoria

P.O. Box 268, Eaglehawk VIC 3556 e: emma.flukes@rpcv.org,au p: (03) 5446 1547

Rye Cemetery Trust

P.O. Box 754, Rye, VIC 3941 e: ryecemetery@bigpond.com p: (03) 5985 1343

Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust

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

TASMANIA

City of Launceston: Carr Villa Memorial Park 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

Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community Council Sherrie Tripp 5 Bunaan Close, Wreck Bay ACT 2540 e: sherrie.tripp@wbacc.gov.au

NORTHERN TERRITORY

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

Coomalie Community Government Council

PO BOX 20 Batchelor Northern Territory 0845 e: mail@coomalie.nt.gov.au p: 08 8976 0058

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: kristy@bunburycemetery.com.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

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

Geraldton Cemetery Board

130 Eastward Road, Geraldton, WA 6530

e: admin@geraldtoncemetery.com.au p: (08) 9921 2707

Kalgoorlie - Boulder Cemetery Board

PO Box 79, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430 e: kalg.bld.cemetery@bigpond.com.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

Auckland Memorial Park

PO Box 391, Silverdale, Auckland, New Zealand e: gm@ampl.co.nz p: 64273003707

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

CORPORATE MEMBERS

NEW SOUTH WALES

Arciuli - Monumental Building 18 Links Road, St Marys, NSW 2760 e: dominic@arciuli.com.au p: (02) 9623 8774

Celeste Catering Pty Ltd

5/481 Willoughby Rd, Willoughby NSW 2068 e: annie@celestecatering.com.au p: (02) 9808 1088

Everlasting Funerals Funeral Services Pty Ltd 36 Mckibbin St Canley Heights NSW 2166 e: Everlastingfuneral199@gmail.com p: 0426 045 999

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

H. Parsons Pty Ltd

34 Belmore Street, Woolongong, NSW 2500

e: alan@hparsons.com.au p: (02) 4228 9622

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

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: martin.jackson@plotbox.io e: laura.oneill@plotbox.io p: 0401 123 897 p: (02) 7228 7971

Russell Investments

GPO Box 3279, SYDNEY NSW 2001 e: jhampshire@russellinvestments.com p: (02) 9229 5375

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: wargraves@dva.gov.au p: 1800 555 254

Windsong Chimes

1/27 Lysaght Street, Coolum Beach, QLD 4573 e: hello@windsongchimes.com.au p: (07) 5233 6405

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

121 Trawalla Avenue, Thomastown VIC 3074 e: ag-sons@iimetro.com.au p: (03) 9359 2142

JCB Construction Equipment Australia PO Box 4149, Dandenong South, VIC 3175 e: m.mccann@jcbcea.com.au p: (03) 9797 3444

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

ACCA MEMBER DIRECTORY

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

The Minter Group of Companies 17 Park Road, Oakleigh, VIC 3166 e: mandee@rhminter.com.au p: (03) 9568 6999

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants 21 Aerolite Way, Beldon, WA 6027 e: funerals@afcc.com.au p: 0422 741 222

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

Hamilton Park Cemetery

Morrinsville Rd, Private Bag 3010, Hamilton 3240 New Zealand

e: michelle.rivers@hcc.govt.nz p: 647 856 9604

Hutt City Council

Private Bag 31912, Lower Hutt, New Zealand

e: janine.jones@huttcity.govt.nz p: 02 7620 2470

Maunu Crematorium Ltd

PO Box 8043, Kensington, Whangarei, New Zealand 0145

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

Memorial Park Hong Kong Limited

93 Fo Tan Village Shatin N.T.

Hong Kong SAR

e: hsi.general@gmail.com p: 852 2145 4826

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

Prestavest Crematorium & Memorial Park Lot 8517, Jalan Taman Semarak, Pokok Assam, 34000, Taiping, Perak, Malaysia e: marketing@prestavest.com.my p: 605 807 6868

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

Shanghai Fu Shou Yuan Industrial Group Co Ltd

Room 1306 No88 Cao Xi North Rd, Shanghai, China, 200030

e: shuting@shfsy.com p: 86 21 5425 5151

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

Wu Han Chang Le Yuan Cemetery

No. 120 Liuzhi Street Huangpi District

Wuhan City Hubei Province, China

e: whclyly@163.com

p: 86 27 87163269

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