Queensland has a number of crematoriums, both public and privately owned. The price of a cremation at each crematorium varies dramatically depending on the location.
Crematoriums in Queensland.
Scattering and memorialising ashes in Queensland.
When thinking about what to do with the cremated remains of your loved ones in Queensland there are just a few rules, but your possibilities are near endless. You want to remember your loved one into the future in a way that keeps their uniqueness alive with you. So, take your time in making the right decision. It needs to be the right decision for you now and also in the future.
Things to consider are:
- Did my loved one express their wishes in what they would like done with their remains?
- Do I want a permanent memorial place where I and other family members can visit?
- Did other family members want to keep some of the cremated remains? There is no obligation for remains to be kept together and they can be divided for different people and purposes.
There are endless opportunities available to you in Queensland in relation to dealing with your loved ones cremated remains. Some are more traditional and some very unique. Take your time in considering your options and you will know what the right decision will be for you, your family and the perfect way to honour your loved one.
Here are a few ideas for you:
Cemeteries and memorial parks.
Queensland memorial parks offer a number of options for cremated remains.
- You may choose to purchase a cremation memorial, which could be a niche in a wall, or in a garden bed. Each cemetery has various options available and you will need to contact the cemetery involved for their options and pricing.
- Scattering of Ashes can be done in cemetery gardens. Once again please contact the cemetery you are considering for their options and pricing.
Scattering with ashes in Queensland.
You may choose to scatter your loved one’s remains. This can take place on private land, at the beach, in a river, in public parks, at sea or at a place that was significant to the deceased and families. It also depends on the personal wishes of the deceased and yourself.
The Queensland State Government website states you may scatter ashes on land or water and hold a small, private ceremony anywhere in Queensland and no permit is required.
However, in Queensland, there are exceptions to this general rule:
- There can be restrictions on scattering ashes in Commonwealth reserves as these are federally managed. You must seek a permit for this situation.
- A Commonwealth marine area that had been declared a Commonwealth reserve is treated similarly and you would need to follow the requirements of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations and obtain a permit.
If you wish to scatter on privately owned land seek permission of the landowner before doing so, but for Council owned or state-owned land where the exceptions above do not apply you have permission.
Ashes scattering at bodies of water.
Keep a few extra things in mind when considering scattering in water:
- If you are scattering from a vessel you must get permission from the boat owner to scatter. See this Cruise Critic article about advice for scattering from a cruise ship.
- If you are at the beach or on a pier be mindful of other members of the public when scattering.
- Often it is quite windy by the water, so be mindful of the direction of the wind when scattering. You don’t want to have remains scatter back to land or into anyone.
- Never just throw the ashes container overboard as it will float. Always empty the container into the sea.
An alternative to scattering in water is to use a specifically designed urn for dispersing remains directly into a body of water. You simply place the urn into a body of water and the urn will float away with the natural tide. Over time the urn dissolves and the remains are dispersed into the water. The Eco Water Urn from The Living Urn is a beautiful example.
There are a number of charter companies that offer Memorial Charters for scattering in Queensland waters. Here are just a few:
You also might be interested in drone scattering of ashes, whether that's at the beach, in a valley, private water bodies, or private properties. Drone Commander Australia offers this unique experience and can deliver a respectful service for your loved one.
General tips for scattering ashes.
If scattering remains be mindful of the following thoughts, which will help make the experience a little easier and more pleasant for everyone.
- Consider the container the remains are in. Containers from the crematorium are difficult to open (often with a plug that needs a flat screwdriver to lift it off) and often not easy to scatter from. Ensure you know how to open the receptacle before the moment comes to scatter.
- Alternatively consider transferring the remains into a receptacle specifically designed for easily scattering remains, such as the Eco Scattering Urn.
- Be aware of the direction of the wind when scattering remains. Have guests stand upwind to avoid any airborne remains blowing into family or friends, as this could be particularly distressing.
- Consider other people. If scattering in a public place remember other people have every right to be there also. Be respectful and if needed, discreet. Choose a time and a place that avoids large numbers of members of the public.
Of course you can always choose to keep your loved ones remains at home with you. As we all know – there’s no place like home.
If you have any further questions or to get an instant quote for a cremation in your area, head here or call 1800 071 176.
