Issue 10 - December 2006

Honouring returned servicemen – see page 16
Involve
The Official News Forum of InvoCare
Issue 10 December 2006
Award winner – page 12
4
8
17
22
Courtesy bus
Special services
Golf for a cause
Creature feature
Editor’s note
InvoCare recently conducted a national survey of the songs people
most request at funerals. Whilst the results are still being compiled,
it made for fascinating reading as the surveys were returned. Of
course there are some consistent old favourites which will rank
high on the list, but equally there are some tracks from newer
artists which are having their moment in the limelight.
Music is such a personal thing and the pity is that more often than
not we don’t take the time to stop and listen to the individual lyrics.
It is not often that discussing funerals is considered a light dinner
party conversation. Discussing music however will generate some
enlightened conversation as well as a few amusing possibilities.
So naturally I began thinking about just what would be appropriate.
Should the song be about the person who has died or for those left
behind or even a message from the grave? To find a song which
hits the mark is not always easy. For many the sound or sentiment
is more important that the meaning of the lyrics.
Three songs stand out to me, none of which necessarily register
on any of the surveys returned thus far. Each song is different; the
first is about rejoicing in what you have done in life, the second is
about missing someone and the third is about trying to go on with
life. These are the most poignant lines from all three.
Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen –
“And even though it all went wrong,
I’ll stand before the Lord of Song with
nothing on my tongue but Hallelujah.”
Wish you were here by Pink Floyd –
“We’re just two lost souls swimming
Anthony Perl
in a fish bowl, year after year.
Running over the same old ground,
what have you found? The same old fears. Wish you were here.”
The show must go on by Queen – “The show must go on.
Inside my heart is breaking, my make-up may be flaking but my
smile still stays on.”
The reason I share these with you, is that these different songs
and sentiments reflect the fact that we are all individuals and each
feeling is as legitimate as the next. The challenge of being personal
in arranging a funeral or memorial should not be underestimated.
You only get one chance to make a final statement about
someone’s life. For InvoCare staff this is something they clearly
excel in; being a part of the local community, contributing to it,
understanding people’s wishes and servicing them is something
this edition of Involve is a testament to.
A note from the CEO
Another year is over, and InvoCare and particularly its staff can be
The enthusiastic manner in which staff
very pleased with their achievements. While the business has
participate in community activities is a
continued to grow, importantly the level of service being afforded
credit to all. It is pleasing to see that
to the public is also continuing to rise.
the skills and experience gained by
The InvoCare Limited Board has again spent
time together touring a number of facilities. As
well as providing an opportunity for Board
members and staff to interact, it also gives
them a chance to better understand the
issues they confront.
InvoCare employees in dealing with
grief are being shared with the
community. This open approach has
Richard Davis
helped contribute to our strong client
survey index, a measurement generated through the surveys sent
to each of our client families. The results continue to show both
the funeral homes and the cemeteries and crematoria are setting
the highest industry standards. Indeed the results show 97.6% of
The Company has continued to grow both through acquisition
families would recommend our funeral home services, while the
and with the opening of several new sites. As outlined in several
figure is at 93% for our cemeteries and crematoria.
articles in this edition of Involve, there has also been a significant
investment from the company in updating facilities. Recently I
attended the opening of the new Chapel and the refurbishment of
Allambe Memorial Park on the Gold Coast. I acknowledge the
significant contribution of staff in ensuring this development
The InvoCare Limited Board has again spent time together
touring a number of facilities. As well as providing an opportunity
for Board members and staff to interact, it also gives them a
chance to better understand the issues they confront.
matched the needs of the public. The official opening was a
Thank you again to everyone for your support throughout the
memorable function and clearly the Gold Coast community in
year. I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday
general has welcomed the investment.
season. I look forward to another great year for InvoCare in 2007.
2)
A note from the COO
While 2006 has seen some significant developments for the
culminates in the presentation of the
Company, 2007 is shaping to be another exciting year. The
2006 Garden Awards. This year’s
expansion strategy for both Simplicity and White Lady Funerals
Awards night was a wonderful
will continue. The growth of these two businesses allows the
success and I want to again thank all
Company to offer each local community alternatives when
those involved in organising it as well
choosing a funeral home. The constant refinement of our funeral
as the sponsors who helped make
home branding is ensuring we are adapting with changing
the event possible. In this edition of
community needs and expectations.
Involve we showcase the winner, the
It was am ambitious year for our cemeteries and crematoria with
a lot of significant developments completed. The official opening
Mike Grehan
people who work in our Gardens and
the sponsors.
of the updated facilities at Rookwood Memorial Gardens and
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my management
Crematorium and the completion of the new Crypts of the
team for their support during the year. We recently met in Sydney
Guardian Angel complex at Forest Lawn Memorial Park will occur
for a conference to prepare for 2007.
in the new year.
It is with pleasure that I announce the appointment of Andrew
Another project which will be completed next year is the roll out of
Pulsford to the position of NSW Traditional Regional Manager.
state of the art audio visual equipment in all our cemeteries and
Andrew has significant senior management experience with multi-
crematoria. Already a number of locations have plasma screens
location businesses. His appointment brings together all our
installed for families to display presentations of their loved one.
traditional style brands in NSW under the one Regional Manager.
These installations will be supported by the inclusion of cameras
Philip Shelley has also been appointed the Shared Services
so services can be recorded on DVD. Professionally packaged,
Manager in NSW, after several years with the company working
this service is being offered to families for free, allowing them to
as Regional Manager in the Inner-West of Sydney. Amber Brittain
capture forever the words delivered at the funeral which
–White has been appointed Regional Manager Operations
encapsulate and pay tribute to the life of their loved one.
Cemetery Crematoria. These appointments echo the Company
Managers from all our cemeteries and crematoria gathered in
policy of continuing to foster talent within the Company while also
Sydney recently for their annual conference. The conference
bringing in external talent to help us grow.
I would like to pay respect to those staff and former staff who are
no longer with us. In particular my thoughts and prayers go to
the families of Kate Saunders, Christine Eichfuss and Ian Flavel
in Canberra.
Let me take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy
Christmas and extend my appreciation to those of you who will
continue to work through the holiday period. All staff can be
immensely proud of their efforts in 2006 and look forward to a
prosperous new year.
Expanding into Singapore
InvoCare Limited recently announced that it had purchased
100% of the ordinary shares in the Singapore Casket Company
(Private) Limited (SCC).
Established in 1920 and incorporated in Singapore, SCC is
Singapore’s largest funeral provider with approximately 10%
market share. Prior to its listing on the Australian Stock
Exchange, InvoCare was responsible for SCC’s operations from
1996 to 2003. During this period InvoCare CEO, Richard Davis,
was also SCC’s Chairman.
Staff from the Singapore Casket Company.
Richard Davis says, “Singapore Casket Company is an exciting
SCC recently completed a major refurbishment of its owned
opportunity for InvoCare to grow its operations outside Australia
premises, which incorporates nine funeral chapels.
in a business and market that is familiar to InvoCare.”
)
Involve 3
Updated facilities
InvoCare’s North Perth funeral operations centre has undergone a
major renovation and upgrade. It was opened on Friday October
27th with a gathering of some 50 local community members and
staff. The mayor of the City of Vincent, Nick Catania, formally
opened the facility, which includes a new Mortuary, holding areas,
loading docks, storage facilities, staff facilities and offices.
In introducing the Mayor, WA General Manager Andrew Hogan
spoke of the importance of the new facility in terms of the
future growth of InvoCare in WA and the maintenance of the
Mayor Nick Catania with Andrew Hogan – WA General Manager,
and the North Perth Management team of Ray Weier – Shared
Services Manager, Arnold Taylor – Location Manager and Chris
Peck – Wheatland, Shared Services Supervisor.
highest standards of service to client families. Andrew said, “The
dedication of local staff to the care of families both throughout the
Mr. Catania spoke of the importance of funerals that are sensitive
funeral process and behind the scenes was excellent. This facility
and meet the needs of families and the long term association of
is important in terms of the delivery of care from the moment we
InvoCare brands and operations and the City Of Vincent. Official
take a first call to the follow up after the funeral itself.”
proceedings were followed by a tour of the facility and refreshments.
Courtesy bus
Master Funeral
Director
The highest honour you can receive in the funeral industry in
Australia is to be one of the select few to be given the title of
Master Funeral Director by the Australian Funeral Directors
Association (AFDA). David Lloyd from Blackwell Funerals,
incorporating Pengelley and Knabe Funerals at Glenside in
Adelaide, was recently given the title.
Ray Weier – WA Shared Services Manager, next to our courtesy bus.
InvoCare’s Western Australia funeral homes now have access to a
new Toyota LWB Hi Ace bus. The bus is for the transportation of
mourners to and from gravesites at Karrakatta cemetery, Perth’s
largest metropolitan cemetery.
In Perth, it is a tradition for mourners to gather at the cemetery
gates and walk in cortège behind the hearse to the gravesite,
sometimes necessitating a very long walk in the hot sun or wintry
rain for elderly or infirmed mourners. The courtesy bus transports
mourners in comfort.
WA General Manager Andrew Hogan says, the response from the
public has been very positive and has certainly improved the level
of service that InvoCare’s WA brands provide. When not required
for cemetery duties, the bus is also able to be used for various PR
activities, which recently included the transportation of elderly
members of the Orthodox and Portuguese communities to
functions and events sponsored by our funeral homes.
4)
David Lloyd (right) receives the award of Master Funeral Director
from Clayton Scott – AFDA National President.
Achieving this highly coveted award is not an easy feat, as you
need to achieve the following criteria; 20 years industry service,
managing a funeral business for a minimum of 10 years, be a
practising embalmer for a minimum of 10 years, and have held a
significant office with the AFDA. David Lloyd is the first of
InvoCare’s South Australian employees to be awarded the title.
Commitment to Care
During 2006 the staff at Le Pine Funeral Services Box Hill held
needs of Victorian health care
three very successful Commitment to Care one day workshops in
professionals who may encounter
their chapel. Participants came from several nursing homes in the
situations involving loss and grief
area as well as the Royal District Nursing Service and a number of
as part of their professional
graduates from the Funeral Celebrants course run by the local
duties,” says Doug. “The staff at
Box Hill Institute.
Box Hill has been very supportive,
These workshops are based on the successful one day
workshops conducted by Somerville Funerals on the Gold Coast.
Doug Berwick, Location Manager at Box Hill, acknowledges the
particularly Suzy Lee
(Administrative / Arranger) who
makes it all happen.”
positive assistance provided by Doris Zagdanski and Susan Piacun
Doug presents the Modules
when he asked for their help to update the previous Commitment
Understanding Grief, A Journey
to Care program that had been conducted in Victoria.
in Adult Grief and Communicating
“When I joined Le Pine the Commitment to Care program in
Victoria required a large time commitment from both staff and
participants,” commented Doug. “To my mind the format needed
to be improved. When I contacted Doris I found that she had
developed the one day workshop concept which was ideal for
what I was trying to do.”
with Grieving People. Suzy
conducts the Self Care section
Suzy practising some
stress management.
of the workshop incorporating
stress management. Suzy is a qualified massage therapist and
kinesiologist who has previously provided training in stress
management and self care for carers within private organisations
including the corporate sector. Her passion is helping people to
“The feedback received from participants has helped us to refine
feel well and she is enthusiastic about her involvement with the
the Commitment to Care workshop so that it addresses the
Commitment to Care program.
Stress and trauma
in the workplace
All WA funeral staff recently came together in small groups to talk
about stress and trauma in the workplace and the strategies we
can use to deal with this effectively. This initiative was designed to
help InvoCare staff be better funeral directors and help support
colleagues and friends.
A group of staff participants at one of the sessions.
The training was lead by Tamara Cohen, a former funeral director
All agreed that the sessions were worthwhile and provided an
and InvoCare staff member who has now completed her BA
increased awareness of the challenges faced everyday as
(Psych) and counselling training. Tamara drew on her personal
funeral directors.
experience and professional knowledge in facilitating the sessions.
Andrew Hogan – General Manager WA
Safety week
Safety Week has become an important part of the Australian calendar
with events around the country to help promote safety at home and in
the workplace. InvoCare planned activities to coincide with Safety
Week in all states including attendance at the Good Health Solutions
presentation and healthy breakfast. Managers and all employees had
the opportunity to understand some of the daily issues facing us in
ensuring a safe workplace. The seminars also presented an
Queensland funeral home staff talking about safety issues.
opportunity to release the Employee Assistance program to staff.
)
Involve 5
Community seminars
George Hartnett Funerals in Brisbane often conduct seminars for
local community groups. It gives these various groups a unique
chance to come together and learn more about ‘grief awareness’
in a relaxed setting.
The latest seminar featured a talk by Queensland General Manager
of Funerals, Doris Zagdanksi. Doris is also the author of a number
of books on grief. This seminar was held at Albany Creek Memorial
Park representing the local communities of the George Hartnett
Funerals locations at Albany Creek and Sandgate.
Offering local
support
Building a future in
classical ballet
Simplicity Funerals at
George Hartnett Funerals in
Logan in Brisbane has
Brisbane have become sponsors
joined the local
of the Queensland Ballet.
community in supporting
The George Hartnett Funerals
Shailer Park’s Tanya
Award is given to a Professional
Taylor, who has battled
Year Dancer.
Multiple Sclerosis for
seven years.
Sandy Paterson and Carol Jones from
Ms Taylor’s sister and fullSimplicity Funerals offer a helping hand to
time carer Debbie Taylor Tanya Taylor and her sister and Debbie.
Tamara Hanton
was recently presented with
the award which she says
“will help build my professional
said members
career in classical ballet.”
of the community had shown great support for Tanya. “People have
She adds, “My first year with
been wonderful. Tanya and I would like to thank the community for
them was a great learning
all their assistance,” she said. Tanya, 31, is unable to live
experience, through the
independently and spends most of her days in a bed or wheelchair.
guidance and wonderful teaching they provide.”
“The funds we have received are now going towards a shower bed
which costs $5000,” said Debbie. Simplicity’s Carol Jones said when
she heard Tanya’s story, she immediately wanted to help. “My sister
has MS so it’s a subject close to my heart,” she said.
Tamara Hanton
Tamara says, “I want to thank the Company for this award and I
can assure you that I will continue to work extremely hard
throughout the coming year.”
Parkinson Awareness Association
Staff from Allen Matthews Funerals – a Guardian Funeral
provider at North Ryde in Sydney – recently attended a special
lunch for The Parkinson Awareness Association. The
association membership comprises persons who have
made a commitment in their wills to leave a bequest to the
Parkinson Association.
John Rawling from Guardian Plan was the guest speaker at the
luncheon. He was well received by the members of the
Association, who were quick to ask lots of questions on
prepaying your funerals. Those attending were offered information
packs, featuring the Guardian’s newly designed folders.
6)
John Rawling – Guardian Plan (far left) and Dennis Byron –
Allen Matthews (far right), standing with representatives from the
Parkinson Awareness Association.
Wally Foreman
Purslowe Funerals, in North Perth, spent
over 100 hours arranging what was the
largest memorial service in WA history –
the funeral of the much loved Wally
Foreman, one of Australia’s most
experienced sports broadcasters. The
procession should take a
funeral held at Challenge Stadium was
route via the sea because of
attended by more than 3000 people and
Wally’s love of the ocean.”
was covered live on ABC radio and shown
Arnold met with the
later on ABC TV.
Challenge Stadiums CEO,
ABC sport broadcaster Wally Foreman died in Perth on Thursday
Graham Moss, ABCs Sports Commentator Glen Mitchell, and a
November 2, 2006, after having a heart attack while running on a
representative from Perth Audio Visual to enure that the event
gymnasium treadmill. One of Australia's most experienced sport
would be managed as efficiently as possible.
broadcasters, Mr Foreman worked in the media for more than 30
years. He attended four Olympic Games and five Commonwealth
Games and also called international cricket, AFL football and
Davis Cup and Australian Open tennis. He was also the director
of the WA Institute of Sport for 17 years from its inception.
Purslowe Funerals’ Location Manager, Arnold Taylor, was
contacted immediately following Wally’s death, the family having
used Purslowe Funerals services previously. From the next day
13 Purslowe staff were involved in the funeral arrangements on
the day. Staff helped man five signing stations around the
stadium where people could leave a message in a memorial
book for Wally’s family.
“We also worked with the website www.obits.com.au to provide
a publicly accessible online space for people to leave messages
and tributes to Wally,” says Arnold.
Arnold and a colleague worked full time coordinating the service.
“The service was recorded and the four hour film formed part of
Arnold immediately met with Wally’s wife Lyn, his two sons (Glen
a memory chest that Purslowe Funerals presented to Wally’s
and Mark) and two sisters to begin arranging the funeral.
family” he added. “It also included the memorial books, photos
There was a private viewing at the North Perth funeral home with
of the service and thank you cards for the family to use.”
a private cortege to the stadium – a limo seating nine following
After the service at the Challenge Stadium, there was a private
the hearse. Arnold says, “We recommended that the funeral
service in the Karrakatta cemetery followed by a private wake.
Funeral notices online
Many InvoCare branches are now placing notices on the
communicate with friends and relatives. Accordingly, Simplicity
www.obits.com.au website, and to date over 1,700 InvoCare
Funerals in NSW are listing more than 75% of their notices with
notices have been placed. Obits is run by a small friendly team,
Obits as families warm to the idea of being able to readily add
headed by Theo and Meg Tsiamis.
tributes to the online notice. The main reason for this is that the
Death, funeral and obituary notices may be placed by fax or
Obits.com.au website is so easy to remember and find with one of
directly online, and can display a photo and up to 500 words of
the strongest web profiles of all the obituary notice listing services.
text. Families may opt to place a shorter newspaper notice, and
take advantage of the longer obits notice, which remain online
indefinitely. Families may also add to a notice at any stage, and
can even add a eulogy after the funeral. Obits is attracting over
20,000 visits per month.
“Over 89% of Simplicity NSW staff prefer going online to enter a
listing because of its speed and convenience for the business
and for families. The ability to confirm what has been written
within seconds as well to update the notice themselves has
many staff excited, and relieved. The days when you’d spend
Simplicity Funerals have been making the most of the Obits
time on the phone waiting to be answered and then relaying the
website. Philip Overduin, Simplicity Funeral’s Regional Manager
message are gone. It’s now as easy as tapping on the keyboard.
in NSW says, “The Obits product enables Simplicity to enjoy a
With Obits, it doesn’t matter if you’re internet savvy or just a
high level of exposure via a new and evolving communication
novice they are very supportive and ready to assist.
channel. Today, with over 14 million Australians having access to
the internet, either at work or at home, people are delighted for
“A growing number of families say they found Simplicity via obits
the opportunity to use the internet to search for information or to
so we couldn’t be more happy with the service.”
)
Involve 7
Special Services
Throughout the year InvoCare’s various funeral home brands, along
with the cemeteries and crematoria, hold special services for the
community to attend to remember the life of a loved one. Many
services are held at a time when the rest of the community are
celebrating, seemingly unaware of those who have lost someone
close. Such is the case with Father’s Day, Chung Yeung Day and All
Souls Day. What follows are examples of recent services.
Father’s Day
Rookwood Memorial Gardens and Crematorium in Sydney held
their inaugural Father’s Day memorial service this year. Attended
by approximately sixty people, the civil celebrant service was
specifically held for people who had recently lost their father
or grandfather.
“The service provided people with an
opportunity to do something active to
remember the life of the person they have
lost,” adds Rosanna.
Purslowe Funerals in Perth, in conjunction with St. Mark’s Anglican
Parish in the northern beachside suburb of Hillaries, organised and
supported a Father’s Day memorial service at the Pinaroo Valley
Memorial Chapel. Purslowe Funerals Wangara Branch, with
Manager Hugh Torpy and Funeral Director Karen Lynch, were the
key organisers of the service and were ably supported by a number
of other Purslowe and Shared Services staff.
The service featured music by Robbie
Williams and included an opportunity for
those present to step forward to light a small
candle in memory of their dad.
The beautiful bush land setting at Pinarroo, combined with a lovely
sunny spring morning, all helped to make the service very moving
and personal. Over 200 people gathered in the chapel to
participate in the service, lead by Fr. Johnthon Joyce from St.
Mark’s and civil celebrant Marc Allen. The service featured music
by Robbie Williams and included an opportunity for those present
to step forward to light a small candle in memory of their dad.
At the conclusion of the service, all present moved outside for a
balloon release. Morning tea followed in the adjoining lounge.
All present appreciated the opportunity to join together in memory
of their fathers.
•••
8)
“We believe many people found the service incredibly moving,”
says Rosanna Kleckin, Family Services Manager at Rookwood
Memorial Gardens and Crematorium. “We all know the incredible
role that fathers play in our lives. We believe it is extremely
important to maintain the ritual of Father’s Day, even after their
father or grandfather has passed away.”
“The service provided people with an opportunity to do
something active to remember the life of the person they have
lost,” adds Rosanna.
The non-denominational service was led by Celebrant Keith
Lammond and included some creative touches in order for people
to celebrate the lives of their fathers and grandfathers. It included a
tribute film accompanied by peaceful music that depicted the
emotive images of grandfathers, fathers and children.
The fathers and grandfathers of each of the families who attended
were individually mentioned during the service. A white card was
provided for people to write their personal messages that were
then cremated.
“It was lovely to see so many people coming to pay their respects.
It was testament to the fact that people benefit from coming
together to collectively grieve for their loved ones,” says Rosanna.
“They can be around others who understand their loss. We hope
that the service will become a tradition with the whole family
attending,” she adds.
Each year on Father’s Day, Rookwood sees an increase in the
number of visitors who just like to come and visit their father’s
memorial. By holding the new service, the day was made to feel
particularly special for the visitors this year.
•••
Chung Yeung Day
All Souls Day
All Souls Day is another
significant event where the
community comes together to
share and remember. Lakeside
Memorial Park in Dapto
recently held its 24th Mass
attended by 1200 people.
Two peace doves were
released at the end of the
mass by a girl and an elderly
male who have loved ones
placed in the park.
Commemorating the loss of a loved one is an important way to
help the grieving process, and Chung Yeung Day is a significant
event enabling the Chinese community to share and remember.
Pinegrove Memorial Park at Minchinbury in Sydney recently held
their 6th annual service attended by over 300 people.
Julie Harvey, Family Services
Manager of Lakeside Memorial
Park says, “All Souls Day was
originally a Christian tradition involving the blessing of spirits of those
who have departed and giving strength to families and loved ones
left behind.”
The All Souls Day Mass was led by the Bishop of Wollongong,
Peter W. Ingham followed by Holy Communion for the congregation.
“Chung Yeung Day gives the Chinese Community strength through
the communal experience,” says Lucy Millena, Regional Manager of
the Multi-Cultural Unit at Pinegrove Memorial Park. “Our service is
well established and highly regarded. Although it is a poignant event
it is a time for everyone to come together and provide support.”
Chung Yeung day is a recognised festival
throughout China, it is mainly celebrated in
Hong Kong. It takes place on the ninth day of
the ninth month of the Chinese lunar calendar
and commemorates two occasions
“People participate in the festival with traditional offerings of special
paper money and material objects and gather for a picnic of the
roast pig offerings” she added.
Although Chung Yeung day is a recognised festival throughout
China, it is mainly celebrated in Hong Kong. It takes place on the
ninth day of the ninth month of the Chinese lunar calendar and
commemorates two occasions. Meaning forever, it is the day on
which Chinese people go to the hillsides to tend to their ancestors’
graves. It also commemorates the day during the Han Dynasty
(B.C. 221 – 206) when a Taoist soothsay (fortune teller) advised a
scholar, Huan Jing, to escape the hills with his family to avoid an
impending disaster. From that date, Chinese people have
celebrated by taking food and chrysanthemum wine in a picnic on
the hillsides. Chrysanthemums are the symbols of good health and
longevity among the Chinese community. Today, feasts, country
walks and flying kites on a hill are all features of Chung Yeung Day
which the people believe will bring good luck.
•••
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Involve 9
VP Day Commemoration
At Drysdale Funerals in Nambour on the Sunshine Coast, there is
a plaque commemorating the 50th year of the end of the war in
the Pacific. The plaque mentions that where the funeral home is
situated, the area was occupied by the 2/4th Field Artillery
Lisa Maddison is with
Arthur Frohmuller
(left) and Bob Ward
(right) taken at
Drysdale Funerals
Chapel at Nambour.
Regiment Headquarters during the years of conflict. The funeral
home has used it as an opportunity to commemorate VP Day
(Victory in the Pacific).
Jim Pavier, the President of the Sub Branch of the RSL says,
“VP Day is very meaningful to the diggers that fought in the Pacific
who felt previously that their efforts were not recognised.” He
pointed out that “a lot of these soldiers were still grieving for their
mates.” So Drysdale’s offered to hold a special VP Day service and
a candle lighting ceremony. Invitations were sent to the Nambour
Sub Branch members and other members from Yandina Sub
Branch and The National Serviceman’s Organisation.
From left, Arthur
Frohmuller, Chris
Jones, Lisa
Maddison, Tim
Goessling,
Bob Ward (rear)
Craig Holyland.
When I went to the Library to find out about the war in the Pacific,
there was little or no information. Recognising there was an
opportunity to do an education programme in the High School,
I approached Nambour High about some of the veterans telling
returned serviceman, and a padre or minister with Location
Manager, Tim Goessling acting as the Master of Ceremonies.
their stories. A poster competition was also held for the Year 10
Old images of the war are projected onto the screen with some quiet
class. For their efforts, the school was presented with the
music playing while the candle lighting occurs. The last post is played
Australians at War series for their library from the Commonwealth
outside the chapel at the end of the service and a wreath is laid at
Government. The Nambour Sub Branch now presents three
the flagpole. The ceremony is followed by light refreshments.
bursaries to the students for their education.
This is our 3rd year of Commemoration. The education part of the
The VP Day service is advertised in the local paper and
event will be continued next year as a learning tool for the high
on television.
school and an opportunity to mix the young and the older
The service begins at 12 Noon and Navy Cadets, Air Force
Cadets, police and army personnel are invited and encouraged to
participate. Students who went on the Quiet Lion Tour along the
Burma railway give an address. There is also an address from a
persons together. Importantly, as echoed by the many comments
from those who attend, the service helps the returned servicemen
feel acknowledged.
Christine Jones – Drysdale Funerals, QLD
Long Tan
Lakeside Memorial Park at Dapto, south of Sydney, sponsors a series of
memorial plaques at the Wollongong City Vietnam Veterans memorial.
The Park has provided these roll of honour plaques for Illawarra deceased
Vietnam Veterans for many years. The most recent addition was for the
late Captain Trevor Beer. The dedication of his plaque at
the city memorial featured heavily at the 40th anniversary
Commemorative service for the battle of Long Tan held
on Sunday 20th August. The famous battle of Long Tan
occurred in 1966 in the Long Tan Rubber Plantation.
The memorial plaques are mounted on bollards that line
the walkway to the epitaph.
10)
Official opening
Allambe Memorial Park
Lakeside Memorial Park
In the last edition of Involve, we featured an article on the $2 million
renovations made to Allambe Memorial Park on the Gold Coast.
The official opening of the new facilities was held recently.
The new Parkview Chapel was ‘blessed’ at a special ceremony
attended by Dianne Reilly Local Member for Mudgeeraba, as well
as representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and the
community. The blessing ended with representatives from each
major faith pouring a chalice of blessed water over a memorial rock
in front of the Chapel while listening to the ‘The Blenders’ quartet.
At the official opening.
After the blessing, local member for Moncrieff, Steven Ciobo,
unveiled a plaque on the rock declaring the Chapel open.
Attendees then gathered for afternoon tea in the refurbished
condolence lounge.
According to Jann Chamberlain, the Family Service Manager,
“The Chapels and the administration building have been carefully
designed to maximise the beauty and peacefulness of the
surrounds and give that warm, airy and light feel which is typical
of the Gold Coast.”
The Lord Mayor of Wollongong, local clergy, celebrants,
community leaders, architects and builders were among 80
people present for the dedication ceremony of the chapel at
Lakeside Memorial Park, Dapto, a facility that caters for over 400
services a year. Remarking on the significance of the chapel for
the local community, Lord Mayor for Wollongong, Councillor Alex
Darling said, “The refurbished chapel now has the modern
facilities that are required by the local community. This coincides
with Wollongong’s plans to modernise the key areas of the City
over the next five years. It is great to see so many people from
the local community gather and celebrate the reopening of what
shall be a key service for the Wollongong area.”
Half a million dollars was spent on refurbishing the Lakeside
Chapel and office facilities. The building now includes wheelchair
access, state of the art audio-visual equipment, seating for up to
120 people and a modern catafalque. The Administration Office
has also been renovated with new consultancy rooms and a new
reception area. The surrounds are quiet and private, providing a
comfortable environment for families to discuss their requirements.
The renovations took four months and were completed by local
tradesmen and suppliers. The design has a modern feel while
keeping with a traditional layout.
“This chapel is a safe and serene space for people to say their
goodbyes and grieve with dignity,” said Reverend Gordon
Bradbery from Wesley Uniting Church who led the service. Using
state of the art technology, Lakeside is now one of a number of
InvoCare cemeteries and crematoria offering families a free DVD of
the service. It will be professionally presented with a case and label
printed directly onto the DVD containing the deceased’s name, the
Funeral Director’s name and the date of service.
Steven Ciobo – Federal Member for Moncrieff, Armen Mikaelian –
General Manager Cemeteries & Crematoria, Richard Davis – CEO
InvoCare, Wayne Fuller – Operations Manager Allambe Memorial
Park, Jann Chamberlain – Family Service Manager, Daryn McKay –
Regional Manager Operations QLD, Dianne Reilly – State Member
for Mudgeeraba, David Adams – Regional Manager Family Service.
)
Involve 11
2006 Garden Awards
The 2006 Cemetery and Crematoria Garden Awards have just
been presented with Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and
Crematorium celebrating its second win of the competition
which has now been running for six years. The gardens of each
of the locations are judged by independent garden expert
Jennifer Stackhouse. Aside from being a qualified horticulturalist
she has also worked with the Sydney Morning Herald and House
and Garden magazine, Australian Horticulture and was the
founding editor of Burke’s Backyard as well as having her own
syndicated radio program. Since the awards inception, Jennifer
has visited each location without their knowledge and then
announces her choice for the winners at a gala function.
Oatlands House hosted this year’s event attended by more than
Part of the award winning gardens at Northern Suburbs Memorial
Gardens and Crematorium.
100 people including Board
members, sponsors, InvoCare
NSW funeral managers along with
the Operations and Family Service
managers and partners. Chief
Operating Officer Mike Grehan
paid special tribute to the sponsors
who have formed partnership style
arrangements with the company
and helped ensure the event was
successful with generous
contributions. The Gold sponsors
Jennifer Stackhouse
were; DDC, Arciuli, Alpine
Landscapes and Globe Memorial
Company. The silver sponsor was Austeng Engineered Solutions.
The bronze sponsors were; Arrow Bronze, Village Mowers and
Power Tools, JA Wales Printers and Flowers for Everyone.
Tom Vukelic – Northern Suburbs Operations Manager and
Dr Christine (Tina) Clifton – Non-Executive Board Member.
MC for the evening, John Scott, introduced Jennifer Stackhouse
who spoke about what she had to take into consideration in
choosing the winner. “Once again I am sorry to report it hasn’t
been an easy year for parks and gardens generally in NSW and
south-east Queensland due to the lack of reliable rain, extreme
temperatures and an overall feeling that gardeners shouldn’t be
wasting water. As with last year, I took the difficulties of the
season into account when visiting the parks and gardens. I also
considered the overall atmosphere of the site as well as the
maintenance levels, plant health and condition of lawns and
water features.”
InvoCare Limited Non-Executive Board Member Dr Christine
(Tina) Clifton was on hand to present the trophies to the winners.
There were four awards presented on the evening:
Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium staff.
looked loved and well maintained. Paths and steps were neat,
Encouragement Award:
Pinegrove Memorial Park
safe and clean throughout. The work done a few years ago to
Third:
Newcastle Memorial Park
remove the large fig trees has well and truly paid off in the
Second:
Castlebrook Memorial Park
First: Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium
In awarding first place, Jennifer said, “This Garden was hard to
appearance of the grounds and the condition of walls and paths.
New plantings are doing well. Water features seemed clean and
to be working well. Excellent.!”
fault. The conifers and clipped plants that are a feature of the
Northern Suburbs Operations Manager Tom Vukelic paid tribute to
heritage gardens were all in immaculate condition. The Garden
the efforts of his outdoor staff in particular in accepting the award.
12)
The 2006 Garden Awards was a well attended success. Pictured below left, some of the sponsors and pictured below right,
a group shot of all the winners.
Garden Awards’ sponsors
)
Involve 13
The People
To assist with the presentations for the
InvoCare Cemetery and Crematoria
Garden Awards, the Company sent
photographer Chris Shain to all 12
locations to take some updated images
of the immaculate grounds and the
people who make it possible.
This page is a tribute to the outdoor staff
Pinegrove – David Hornby and Tony Lever
who maintain the gardens.
Rookwood – Alf Devittor and Dennis Arentz
Tweed Heads –
Norman Bradley
Albany Creek – Robert Phillips and Bradley Stewart
Lake Macquarie – Dean Mackay and Les Reynolds (foreground)
Newcastle – Geoff Bell
Allambe – William Hardman and Kelvin Enslow
Castlebrook – Justin Jones
Lakeside – Stephen Staines
and Bruno Kuehne
Mt Thompson – Gerard Farrell and Grant Collins
14 )
Forest Lawn – (foreground to rear)
Brandon Jesson, Larry Brabin
and Alan Johnstone
Introducing the
latest technology
Understanding
cremation
As part of InvoCare’s continuous improvement, the Company is
InvoCare has taken the lead in the
embarking on an ambitious plan to upgrade its crematoria sites.
funeral industry by publishing a
Cremation and furnace rooms are increasingly becoming part of
brochure which seeks to help people
the public face of the business, with more people interested in
understand the cremation process.
touring the facilities. So the operation must be presented as
There are many myths surrounding
comforting, respectful, neat and tidy.
the process, many of which have
the art ‘Joule’ cremator for Allambe Memorial Park on the Gold
Coast. The furnace room and the area around it will be upgraded,
making it a more pleasant place to work and provide a suitable and
respectful environment for families who choose to witness the
insertion of the coffin into the furnace.
The latest ‘Joule’ cremators are fully computerised and packed
with many unique and innovative features that set the standard for
cremators world-wide. These include; high standards, low fuel
usage, fully computerised with inbuilt safety features and pollution
controls to keep emissions to a minimum and compliant with
stringent European anti-pollution requirements.
The cremator is being specially designed as larger than standard to
cater for an increasingly heavy average sized body and large
caskets. It will be built by a company called Austeng who have
experience manufacturing cremators both in Australia and
throughout the United Kingdom.
come to light in recent media
coverage. Until now there has not
been a brochure in Australia
which seeks to clearly explain
what actually happens when the
funeral service is over and the
coffin goes behind the curtain.
The brochure was put together with the cooperation of many of
InvoCare’s experienced staff, ensuring the detail reflects the
consistent and careful approach taken by all InvoCare’s crematoria.
Accompanying the detailed explanation are photographs taken at
Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematoria which help
demonstrate the clinical efforts of staff to ensure the cremated
remains of a family’s loved one are cared for throughout.
Along with the detailed explanation, the brochure also features a
series of interesting facts about the cremation process. You can
obtain a free copy of the brochure through one of InvoCare’s
Memorial Parks and Gardens or by visiting their websites.
)
InvoCare has placed an order to manufacture and install a state of
Involve 15
Honouring returned servicemen
Mr Glen Milne, President of
the Gold Coast and District
RSL. “The RSL highly
appreciates the sensitivity
in ensuring the memorial
continues to be accessible
to the families and relatives
of those remembered,”
he added.
A bagpiper played while
people arrived and
As part of the refurbishment of Allambe Memorial Park on the
Gold Coast, a new RSL section has been developed, and
recently Gold Coast RSL Presidents, families and representatives
from the local community gathered for a service to mark the
rededication. The RSL memorial walls have been relocated to
the gardens surrounding the Garden Chapel.
departed with a traditional
laying of wreathes forming part of the service. Everyone who
attended was also given a poppy to mark Remembrance Day.
When the service finished, the congregation gathered for a
complimentary morning tea in the recently refurbished
condolence lounge.
Jann Chamberlain, Family Services Manager at Allambe
Memorial Park says, “The service gave families and RSL
members a chance to come together to remember their loved
ones. It also signified the new area is officially dedicated to
deceased RSL members who lost their loved ones during a war
or armed conflict.”
The service was led by Reverend Roger Boerth AM who has
previously served as a military chaplain. A group of cadets from
the Southport School formed a guard of honour.
“Allambe has been extremely cooperative and sensitive to the
families needs while relocating the RSL memorial wall” says
Supporting the Filipino community
The Multi-Cultural Unit (MCU) based at Pinegrove Memorial Park has
made a donation for the celebration of the 50th year anniversary of
the St Aidan’s Parish Church at Rooty Hill. The donation went into
funding the festivities including a souvenir program and additional
facilities in the new parish Community Hall. The new hall is located in
the grounds of the school and church and is expected to serve all
areas of the community.
Bishop Kevin Manning of the diocese of Parramatta led the 50th
anniversary celebration with Fr Renato Paras, parish priest of
St Aidan’s, who was also the first Filipino Chaplain in Australia.
A crowd of 3,000 parishioners gathered in celebration.
Filipino Unit Manager Mrs. Nina Chavez says, “We are delighted
to have been able to donate to assist the parish in the
celebrations of their 50th year. The new hall will provide a real
focus for the local community. The area has many families and
young people and this is a place where real connections and
friendships will be formed.”
16)
Bishop Kevin Manning of the archdiocese of Parramatta and Fr
Renato Paras, Parish Priest, cutting the anniversary cake. Far right is
Nina Chavez, Unit Manager of the Multi-Cultural Unit based in
Pinegrove Memorial Park. Others shown are parish workers.
Stolen moments
Stolen Moments recalls the stories of families living with and
impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. It might be assumed that a
book of true-life stories about people with Alzheimer’s would be
filled with sad, heartbreaking stories, but Stolen Moments has
proven this assumption wrong. Even before its recent launch,
sponsored by Purslowe Funerals in Perth, and the Town of
Vincent, the book had received positive feedback. Inspiring,
comforting, informative are just a few of the words that have
been used to describe the book.
From left, Arnold
Taylor – Purslowe
Funerals North
Perth Location
Manager, with
compilers
Elizabeth Bezant
‘We wanted to create a book that not only included real life stories
and Pamela
but one that also raised awareness and understanding of this
J Eaves.
disease, “ says Elizabeth Bezant, one of the compilers of Stolen
Moments. She adds, ” Alzheimer’s can be the cause of great
isolation, both physically and emotionally, so we wanted to offer
some comfort and reassurance to those living with it that in every
corner of the world people are feeling and dealing with the same
thing. The book is not a happy book, because it can’t be, but the
stories are inspiring, enlightening and hopefully unforgettable.”
Stolen Moments (retailing for $24.95) is compiled by Elizabeth
Bezant and Pamela J Eaves and is available from Life’s
Inspirational Moments, PO Box 122, Quinns Rocks, WA 6030 or
through www.lifesinspirationalmoments.com.
Golf for a cause
Le Pine Funerals in Melbourne recently sponsored the Doxa
brings together many influential members of the community
Foundation Golf Day. Established by Fr Joe Giacobbe, the Doxa
including a number of leading sporting identities, who enjoy a
Foundation sponsors underprivileged children. Le Pine has
luncheon followed by a round of golf at the Yarra Yarra golf
supported this day for four years, held before the spring racing
course.
carnival each year.
At the conclusion of the day the trophies are presented while the
This year there was a record number of entries with a number of
participants enjoy a light meal and drinks.
major businesses supporting this day including Fosters. The day
John Fowler – General Manager, Victoria
Left to Right: Rod Nicholson chief racing writer for the Melbourne Herald Sun, Bobby Skilton football legend and triple Brownlow medalist,
Mike Woods, Peter Nichols racing idenity, Andrew Noblet horse trainer, Alf Matthews racing identity (Sky Racing), Roy Higgins (racing legend)
sport 927 racing commentator, Bill Mitchell race horse trainer-bloodstock agent (Hunter Valley NSW), John Fowler InvoCare General Manager
Victoria, Fr Brian O’Sullivan, Lee Freedman race horse trainer and Colin Little race horse trainer.
)
Involve 17
Supporting palliative
care research
Survey
Comments
A survey is sent to every family who has a funeral arranged by
an InvoCare company. A separate survey is sent to those who
place a memorial within one of InvoCare’s cemeteries and
crematoria. Following is a sample of some of the comments
received on those surveys.
The people were relaxed and comfortable, they were giving
refreshments and coffee, the director made us feel comfortable.
Blackwell Funerals – Payneham, SA
Facilities suitable, staff helpful when I rang to query details of
chapel and collecting ashes was easily arranged (special
requests regarding ashes were fulfilled without query).
Simplicity Funerals – Osborne Park, WA
Pictured at the dinner are (from left): Ashley Crowe – Regional Manager
Southern/Eastern Region, Victoria, Gerard Nelson, Lt-Col Georgina
Whelan and General Peter Cosgrove.
Everything went as planned. The deceased had specific wishes
which were followed in every detail. Very good value for money,
as this was a prepaid funeral.
Le Pine Funerals in Melbourne was represented recently at the Vivian
Bullwinkel Memorial Fund Gala Dinner, lending support to the group’s
White Lady Funerals – Mornington, VIC
efforts to raise funds for palliative care research in Australia. The dinner
was hosted by the Monash University Medical Foundation together
with Professor Margaret O’Connor AM (Vivian Bullwinkel Chair in
Nursing, Palliative Care), at the Melbourne Museum.
Ita Buttrose AM was MC for the evening and special guest was
Professor David de Kretser AC, Governor of Victoria. Speakers
Everything that was arranged was excellent from the first
phone call to the service and beyond was excellent.
Hansen and Cole Funerals –
A Guardian Funeral provider – Kembla Grange, NSW
included former Chief of Defence, General Peter Cosgrove AC MC and
Lt-Col Georgina Whelan AM CSC, RAN Commander Banda Aceh
Relief Effort.
The Monash University School of Nursing and Midwifery in partnership
Funeral staff, particularly Christine Jones, really helped me
through and stayed in contact with me after funeral, her
professionalism I can only speak of in the highest order.
with Peninsula Health, Peninsula Hospice Service and the Royal District
Nursing Service has established the Vivian Bullwinkel Chair in Nursing,
Drysdale Funerals – Nambour, QLD
Palliative Care to bring together the key areas of research education
and service provision in palliative care.
I was perfectly satisfied with all arrangements. Having previous
The Chair is named after the late Sister Vivian Bullwinkel in recognition
experience four times decision making was not a problem.
of her lifetime contribution to nursing, as well as her courage, energy
and compassion.
Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens – Holland Park, QLD
Vivian was respected for her wartime leadership as a prisoner of the
Japanese Imperial Forces and for her peacetime leadership in fighting
for professional issues that would bring her vision of nursing closer
to reality.
The memorial fund set up in Vivian’s honour focuses on the needs of the
dying and exploring ways their lives can be made more comfortable.
18)
Very happy, everything was handled very professionally.
Lake Macquarie Memorial Park – Ryhope, NSW
Shopping Centre
Many people find it intimidating to walk into a funeral home and
ask for information. There is a certain societal fear about what
Volunteers
Conference
you might see and what the people who work there are like.
Simplicity Funerals on the Central Coast of NSW recently took
the opportunity to put some of those concerns to rest by
opening a stall for a week at Erina Fair Shopping Centre,
reaching at least 600 people a day.
The Simplicity display incorporated various materials and
generally depicted the funeral brand as contemporary,
approachable and committed. Over 200 information packs were
distributed and the group fielded many inquiries.
Rob James is one of Simplicity’s Community Relations Advisors
and he says, “Having bags to hand out made it easier to pass on
information to ‘shy’ people. The DVD playing continuously was a
Simplicity Funerals in Adelaide leant their support to the recent
definite attraction. Wearing Simplicity polo shirts also made
Hands – On! Palliative Care Volunteers Conference held in Fullarton
people feel more relaxed.”
Community Centre. Attended by 150 people, the conference was
presented by the Palliative Care Council of South Australia to provide
Janette Davison is the Location Supervisor at Simplicity Erina and
she says, “The positive feedback I received from people in
general and friends that stopped and spoke to me when I was at
the stall was overwhelming. It goes to show that people out there
are becoming more open to talking about funerals. In a nutshell
I thought the week was a great success”
an opportunity for volunteers to “learn new skills, share ideas, meet
your peers.” Among the keynote speakers was Steven Gregory for
Simplicity Funerals at Enfield, who spoke about ‘What happens if a
person dies in the workplace?’ Kaylene Perry was also on hand to
assist. Steven said, “It was an opportunity to support the local
community and share our knowledge.”
Retirement and
lifestyle expo
Mareena Purslowe and Associates Funerals (MPA) in Perth
participated at the recent Perth retirement and lifestyle expo held
at the Convention and Exhibition centre.
The expo attracted some 6,000 visitors and MPA was well
represented with a booth and staff on hand right throughout the
planning ahead.
Pam Castensen – Location Manager and Bev Woolhouse – Pre-need
Consultant at the MPA stand.
)
event to answer questions and discuss funeral arrangements and
Involve 19
Older people speak out
Mr Bill Benson OAM – OPSO
Board member, Val French
AM – President of OPSO,
Matt Hansen – Regional
Manager for Simplicity QLD,
Doris Zagdanski – General
Manager Queensland
Funerals and Richard Fidler –
compare and ABC radio
personality (ex Doug
Anthony Allstars!).
Older People Speak Out (OPSO) hold a national media awards
Simplicity Funerals have sponsored this award for the last five
presentation night each year in Brisbane – acknowledging
years. OPSO seeks to promote healthy ageing and the previously
journalists from around the country who present media items on
unrecognised contribution older people make to the stability
‘older people’ in a positive light.
of society.
Chinese – Australian friendship night
Allan Drew Funerals at Castle Hill in Sydney recently joined with
Entertainment during the evening was provided by both Eastern
members of the InvoCare Cemeteries and Crematoria Chinese
and Western entertainers. The goodwill and greater
Multi-Cultural team at the second annual Hills Chinese-Australian
understanding of both cultures fostered by this night was heart
Friendship Night. The night was hosted by member for the Hills,
warming. The success of the night will ensure its annual status
Michael Richardson MP at the Castle Terrace Chinese
and will be high on our priorities for attendance next year.
Restaurant in Castle Hill. A Banquet dinner was enjoyed by all.
Everyone also had fun trying to answer trivia questions on both
Australian and Chinese cultures.
David Murray – Location Manager Allan Drew
Funerals in Castle Hill, NSW
Helping at the fair
Murdoch Hospice in Perth recently held a Fair to raise funds for
their operations. A number of the Oakwood Funerals staff, in an
effort to make a contribution to the Fair, decided to make some
jam and Christmas cakes and donate them to the hospice to sell
on the day.
Oakwood’s Nola Coleman made the Marmalade and Chantelle
Heuer made the strawberry jam along with a contribution of ten
Granny Chipper Christmas cakes.
The Hospice raised over $13000 with the jam stall taking
the most on the day.
Don Chipper – Regional Manager Oakwood Funerals, WA
20)
Chantelle Heuer (above) and
Nola Coleman (right).
Boomers trust
their ambulance
service more than
their relatives!
improved – television programs, banks and private health funds
As we age our attitude toward life changes, it’s inevitable. Earlier
to eat at home, new television programs to watch and new ways
in life we might view retirement as a blessing and we look
to relax. However, new home entertainment systems, places to
forward to the peace, but when it is upon us many Australians
go shopping and ways to lose weight appear to be much lower
change direction completely and life hits a turn in the road. The
on a person’s agenda.
have worsened.
The health of the Boomer clearly plays an important role in their
life as they age. Considered as ‘vital’ in the local community in
order of priority is: a local doctor, a school and families. On the
other end of the scale, a park, post office and bank seem to be
of less importance.
At the age of forty and over, Boomers begin to look at new foods
children have finally flown the nest, grandchildren might be on
the way, and many more of us are volunteering and playing a role
in the community. Some of us as we age will seek new and
invigorating challenges. Others of us will settle into our local
communities for a quieter life. With our life changes, so too do
our attitudes and behaviours change.
Below are the top ten people that boomers trust:
1. Ambulance service
2. Fire service
3. Nurses
4. Drugs/Medic recommendations by doctors
In the two and a half years that Senioragency has been
focussing on campaigns targeting the “older generation” we have
5. Police
researched the attitudes of Baby Boomers as they age and have
6. Recommendations made by pharmacists
made some interesting findings.
7. Vets
For example, Australians have got high levels of confidence in
8. Advice from friends/relatives
both the ambulance and fire services but not in the advice they
9. School teachers
receive from their friends or relatives. They also have more trust
10. Scientists
in the recommendations they attain from their doctor than they
would from their children’s or grandchildren’s school teacher.
The typical boomer wants to have confidence in their local
services, especially those which are going to become
Journalists are considered as the least trustworthy, followed by
increasingly important as they age, such as the state services. It
real estate agents and politicians in State Government. Boomers
is important, therefore, for community focused organisations and
are more likely to trust their local shop keeper than their religious
local government to understand the demands of the ageing
leader or their bank manager. There is also a clear shift in the
attitude of Australians towards general services and how they think
they have worsened or improved. According to the Boomers, where
mobile phone carriers, pharmacies and domestic airlines have
Boomer and to ensure that the services they require are both
current and accessible.
Chris Cormack Managing Director Senioragency Australia
Buddha’s birthday
George Hartnett Funerals in Brisbane were a major sponsor of
the Buddha Birthday Festival held recently at Southbank Piazza
and Parklands. This is a major multicultural event on the calendar
in Brisbane, raising awareness of the Buddhist faith and theme of
harmony. Attended by artistic performers from China and Taiwan,
it is also supported by local and state government with many
VIP’s in attendance. The George Hartnett’s sponsorship included
signage in Southbank Parklands and a full width street banner in
Fortitude Valley. The sponsorship was presented at the Chung
Tian Temple which is the largest and main Buddhist Temple in
Barry McIntosh – Location Manager George Hartnett
Funerals in Holland Park, QLD
From left, Even Chang – President Buddhist Light International
Association Queensland, Rev.Shan – Chung Tian Temple,
Barry McIntosh – George Hartnett Funerals, Holland Park, Mark
Carey – Regional Manager, George Hartnett Funerals, Brisbane.
)
Brisbane. It is visited by over 10,000 school children each year.
Involve 21
Creature feature
Guardian Funerals at Bankstown in Sydney worked with
St Joachims Nursing Home at Lidcombe to do something a little
different to bring together local school children and residents.
Cheryl Prosser from Guardian and Maureen Ford, the Diversional
Therapist for St
Joachims, decided they
could bring some
‘excitement’ to the
event by bringing a
reptile show to the
Nursing Home.
According to Cheryl,
“The integration between
the young school
children who acted as
helpers and the residents
was wonderful.
There were a lot of laughs and a plenty of good stories
about their experiences with creepy crawlies. It sure
gave everyone’s day a lift.”
Put a smile on the face
Bruce Maurer Funerals – a Guardian Funeral provider at Crows
residents who are quite incapacitated, making balloon figures for
Nest in Sydney – recently put on a B.B.Q. and entertainment day
every resident to keep.
at Venee Burges House for residents and staff at the Spastic
Centre in Allambie Heights. Entertainment was arranged for the
day including a juggler and a duo that play violin, piano and sing.
Management and staff at the Spastic Centre always appreciate
the day, but declared that we had excelled ourselves in that the
twice yearly event that just keeps on getting better.
Myself and Ian McEwan were the chefs de jour with steaks,
sausages, gourmet rissoles and kebabs the staple and potato
bake, egg pasta, coleslaw, potato and various salads to
accompany. Giant and large pavlovas and American
cheesecakes followed for sweets.
Fortunately we have never struck a bad weather day and the staff
are convinced that I have a direct line to heaven (their words) as
the week of the B.B.Q. was not good and the day before quite
horrendous. I admit that I do look up and say, “how about it!”
The food and entertainment were an enormous success and the
Peter Brock – Location Manager, Bruce Maurer Funerals a
addition of the juggler brought wonderful results from the
Guardian funeral provider in Crows Nest, NSW
Senior’s week
Purslowe Funerals Midland branch supported the recent Senior’s
Week with a display at the Seniors Expo held at the local Midland
Town Hall in the Eastern Suburbs of Perth. The expo was
organised by the City of Swan
Staff including Location Manager Raymond Letchford and
Jennifer Ottaviano were present throughout the Expo to meet
local seniors and discuss the services that Purslowe Funerals
offer the community.
Raymond and Jennifer were also able to discuss the benefits
of planning ahead. The expo was a first for the location
and resulted in some excellent exposure for the brand and
the location.
22)
Raymond Letchford – Location Manager and Jennifer Ottaviano
at the Expo.
Letters of thanks
The following are excerpts from a collection of some of the letters of
thanks sent in by the families we have serviced.
Purslowe Funerals – Midland, WA
Dear Jennifer,
There are times that thankyou’s are simply not enough. An effort is
White Lady Funerals – Plympton, SA
Dear Ms Schubert,
made for beyond what is expected from a person, even though it is
their chosen profession.
Last Friday, we held my Mother’s funeral at Plympton. When we were
At a time when confusion and grief played a major role, with the
arranging the funeral with Karen Hornhardt we thought there would be
passing of our Mother you made what was a difficult task seem
about 60 people attend, even my brothers agreed with us that it would
effortless. Your organisation of Mothers Funeral was exceptional,
be a small funeral as my mother was 86 years old and many of her
nothing seemed too difficult or too much effort. Even work in your
friends are no longer with us. Unfortunately, we were wrong and there
own time. You treated both Mother and ourselves, we felt, with the
ended up being a very large crowd…I would like to go on and say that
utmost Patience and Respect.
your staff were quite amazing. It must have been very difficult for all of
them to cope with such numbers, however, they handled the situation
in a very caring and professional manner, and we have not had one
complaint or criticism from those who attended about the situation
You changed our focus to one of being positive, We are now happy
in the knowledge that Mother received the sort of Funeral she would
have wanted and we, as a last respect, would have liked to have
given to her.
My father is 84 years of age and loosing his wife of almost 64 years
was very difficult for him. When we met with Karen on Wednesday of
last week to organize the funeral, Dad was quite distressed and Karen
Rarely is there such a perfect marriage between a person and their
chosen vocation.
was a fantastic help in organizing the funeral, making suggestions to us
For the lack of a better word ‘Thank You’, from our Family, from the
and giving us time to make our decisions. At no time did we feel under
bottom of our hearts. We will at every opportunity recommend you
any pressure to rush our decision making or to make any
and remember you fondly. Our love and best wishes we also extend
arrangements to suit anyone but ourselves. She has the ability of
to your Family and Pray that God will keep you in his care.
making you feel very comfortable in such a stressful situation. She
asked us questions about Mum, and Dad enjoyed recalling some of
Rockwood Memorial Gardens and Crematorium –
his memories of their time together. As the morning went on I could
Rookwood, NSW
see Dad becoming more relaxed and confident in making decisions
and this was due purely to Karen’s patience and kind consideration.
Dear Rosanna,
I am writing to thank you and your staff for organising the Father’s
When I attended to view Mum on Thursday and during the Funeral on
Day Memorial Service.
Friday, Karen was extremely attentive to all our needs. I have had
friends and relations ask me for Karen’s name and to tell me how they
noticed, even in the chaos of it all, how well she conducted the
situation and how she cared for me and Dad.
Keith Lammond conducted the proceedings in a very relaxed,
friendly manner, whilst keeping a dignified tone, which I am sure,
made each family present feel as though he was talking to
them personally.
They were very impressed with her and your organisation.
The message cards were a great idea enabling us to express our
This has continued in organising the collection of Mum’s ashes and in
individual sentiments on that morning. The scattered rose petals
the necessary paper work that I require. Karen has meticulously kept
were lovely.
us informed of the progress of events.
The refreshments were most appreciated.
I would like to thank your staff for giving my Mother a very personal
and caring Funeral.
I personally thank Karen for her kindness and support. It is a very
difficult time when you loose your Mother and I certainly felt Karen’s
Thank you
Pinegrove Memorial Park – Minchinbury, NSW
compassion and understanding as to how I was feeling. She became
Dear Marie,
a very good friend in just 2 days and her support was invaluable to me
My family, would like to ‘Thank You very much’ for all you have done
as I was dealing with the lost of my Mother and my Father’s grief. She
for our mother. You have shown interest and kindness at our tragic
was very professional in her approach to dealing with a difficult situation
time. We will always appreciate everything you have done for us.
with so many people and is obviously a great asset to your team.
Mum would have too.
)
Involve 23
The last word
Horse & carriage
Heavenly Voice Mail
Have you every wondered what it would be like if God decided to
install voice mail? Imagine praying and hearing: “Thank you for
calling heaven. For English press 1, for Spanish press 2, for all other
languages, press 3.
Please select one of the following options: Press 1 for request, press
2 for thanksgiving, press 3 for complaints, press 4 for all others. I am
sorry, all our Angels and Saints are busy helping other sinners right
now. However, your prayer is important to us and we will answer it in
the order it was received. Please stay on the line.
If you would like to speak: God, press 1, Jesus, press 2, Holy Spirit,
press 3. To find a loved one that has been assigned to heaven press
5, then enter this tax file number followed by the hash sign. (If you
receive a negative response, please hang up and dial area code 666).
For reservations to heaven, please enter JOHN followed by the
numbers, 3 16. For answers to nagging questions about dinosaurs,
life and other planets, please wait until you arrive in heaven for details.
Provinciale Funerals at Coburg in Melbourne recently conducted
a funeral for Giuseppe Brullo, who had grown up in Italy where
he made a living as a carriage builder. When he passed away,
his family wanted to do something personal for him that he
Our computers show that you have already been prayed for today,
would have appreciated. So the offer was made to use the Le
please hang up and call again tomorrow. The office is now closed for
Pine Funerals horse drawn hearse.
the weekend to observe a religious holiday. If you are calling after
hours and need emergency assistance, please contact your local
pastor. Thank you and have a heavenly day.
•••
Marc Ostrill arranged the funeral and he says, “As we left the
church in a procession to the Mausoleum at Fawkner Cemetery,
there were two beautiful white horses in control with all their
funeral gear, including a black plumage. There were a few
strange looks once we got underway. However when we arrived
Joke
at the Mausoleum with the family ready to carry the casket, you
The relatives of the family's rich dowager gathered for the reading of
could see the tears in the eyes expressing how pleased and
her will after her long awaited death.
proud Giuseppe would have been in making his final journey.”
“Being of sound mind,” read the lawyer, “I spent every last cent
before I died.”
•••
A wife was dying and on her deathbed, she gave final instructions to
her husband. “You've been so good to me all these years. I know
you never even thought about another woman. But now that I’m
going, I want you to marry again as soon as is possible and I want
you to give your new wife all my expensive clothes.”
“I can’t do that, darling,” the husband said. “You’re a size 16 and
she’s only a 10. “
Involve welcomes your contributions:
Involve
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or fax to: 02 9978 5298 or email: [email protected]
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24)