Dying to Know – Newcastle Memorial Park Tour

A guided, behind the scenes tour of Newcastle Memorial Park that will answer the questions you were too afraid to ask about caring for the deceased.

Death does not regularly make it to the top of the list of discussion topics, in fact, it has always been a subject that we steer clear of in polite conversation. As a result, when it inevitably happens to somebody we love, we find ourselves unsure of what to say or do. To help educate Australians and dispel the taboos around the topic, Newcastle Memorial Park will give locals a guided tour of its facilities including the crematorium.

The event, created by Newcastle Memorial Park and sister facility, Lake Macquarie Memorial Park, will give locals the opportunity to go behind the scenes as part of Dying to Know Day. The annual awareness day started in 2013 and invites Australians to host their own gatherings, whether it is a small morning tea or a larger community event. These gatherings aim to normalise the topic, helping people to have healthy relationships with life and inevitable death.

“Our tours will take visitors behind the curtain to see into the world of the cemetery and crematorium, which is an important part of celebrating the lives of the ones we love,” explains Garry Bellenger, Family Services Manager at Newcastle Memorial Park. “On the day, our team and guest speakers will explain the cremation process and provide insights into how we care for the people entrusted to us and create a last connection to them as we farewell them,” Garry adds.

The event will include light refreshments and offers the perfect opportunity to talk openly about death and learn about the different possibilities that can be arranged with your local memorial park. As it is something that happens to all of us, it is important for everyone to make informed decisions about end of life care.

To attend, book a place on the tour via email to Garry Bellenger, Newcastle Memorial Park, Family Services Manager at garry.bellenger@newcastlecrem.com.au.