Why Cremation?
Some of the most common questions people ask about cremations.
Can a person be cremated against their wishes?
Not if there are written instructions stating that they wish to be buried. Most people write into their Will or any Pre-planned Funeral Arrangement, what their wishes are in relation to this.
How does the cost of cremation compare to burial?
Cremation is normally less expensive than burial. There are price differences in purchasing a coffin for cremation and or burial as well as a plot for burial. It is best to discuss the options with your preferred Funeral Director of your choosing.
Do you cremate more than one person at a time?
At Great Southern Garden of Remembrance we operate as per the Cremation Act of Qld. We cremate one person in the cremator at a time. In special situations, an exception can be requested in the event of a double fatality in the same family. This would apply when twin babies are lost or a mother with a newborn baby. This request must come from the legal applicant; the funeral director would then arrange with the crematorium to do so after all the correct documents are completed.
When does the cremation take place?
Cremations will generally be carried out on the same day as the funeral service, however where this is not possible, the cremation will take place on the next working day, in accordance with Health Department Regulations, which state the cremation can occur up to 48 hours later.
How long does cremation take?
Cremation times can vary depending on physical form and what coffin material used; on an average it takes just over 1 ½ hours for the physical cremation to take place.
At the crematorium the deceased remains inside the coffin at all times.
Can my family place items in my coffin if I am being cremated?
Families are able to place items into the coffin. It is advisable that you speak to the funeral director who will advise of any items that are not suitable for cremation and could in fact be hazardous to staff and visitors to the crematorium. At the crematorium the deceased remains inside the coffin at all times. Each coffin or casket is sealed by the funeral director and crematorium staff are not authorised to open such. Some items not suitable for cremation include, items made from rubber, batteries of any type and or size, metal products (walking sticks, photo frames, etc), glass, pressurised cans or alcohol.
Who can take my ashes?
Only the person who has signed the application for permission to cremate is authorised to collect. Alternatively the legal applicant can provide written authorisation to a nominee to collect on their behalf; identification will be required prior to release.
What can be done with my ashes?
There is a number of options available including Permanent memorials at the Crematorium include, Columbarium wall, Rose garden, Rock in waterway, Memorial seat, Garden rockery and even Family garden estates and Scatterings. Urns are available to take the ashes home. It is a personal choice!
Can my family request a viewing prior to my service?
Yes, at Great Southern Gardens we have a private viewing room that allows a family to spend time with their loved one for 30 minutes prior to the service.