Involve Issue 14 - Aug 2008

I N V O LV E
INVO
ISSUE 14 AUGUST 2008
World Youth Day: Transportation of Relics
All Care, Great Responsibility
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A word from the CEO
July 2008 saw Australia, and Sydney in
The redevelopment and consecration of
InvoCare is a publicly listed
particular, become the focus for Catholics all
landmark chapels, the opening of beautiful
over the world either attending in person or
new family crypts, the bedding in of new
Australian company and the
observing World Youth Day from afar. InvoCare
serene Chinese gardens and the development
largest provider of funeral
and its brands were pleased to support the
of staff training on responding to the needs
Catholic Church during this very special event
of diverse communities all demonstrate
services in Australia and
including through our participation in the safe
our commitment to all Australia’s religious
Singapore.
transport and display of the holy remains of
congregations.
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and those of
Our philosophy is:
• to demonstrate the highest
three young Saints; Gabriel Possenti, Gemma
Galgani and Maria Goretti.
We are not at the end of the road on this
particular journey. Every year families arrive
from all parts of the world to live in either new
It was our pleasure to be part of this uplifting
or established communities across this wide
event culminating in the visit to Australia of
land. Each such group owns new perspectives
degree of professionalism
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI and his open
on funeral services, new ways to celebrate
while assisting client families
air mass attracting hundreds of thousands
life and provides us with new opportunities
of pilgrims.
to refine the support we proudly provide to
at a pivotal time in their lives
Australia is a multi-cultural society and at
families in need.
InvoCare we have a long tradition of direct
Our participation in World Youth Day is just
• to exercise responsibility as an
relationships with Australia’s many religions
one way we demonstrate our commitment to
industry leader by setting high
extending back over many years. In recent
innovation, vocation and care.
standards of service, safety
and fair business practice
times we have arranged appropriate funeral
services to a wide variety of Australia’s
religions including all Christian denominations;
the Buddhist, Jewish and Islamic faiths.
• to increase investor
value though sound fiscal
management and corporate
Through constant innovation we have also
striven to ensure the cemeteries and crematoria
we own and manage are able to cater for the
Richard Davis
communities they serve.
Chief Executive Officer
development
We are committed to helping
our local communities;
offering personal attention and
demonstrating this commitment
to the families we are privileged
to serve.
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InvoCare
welcomes
Christian
Funerals
InvoCare is pleased to announce the
addition of Christian Funerals to our
Western Australian operations and
warmly welcomes all of its employees
to our team.
Contents
InvoCare
Traditional Funerals
A word from the CEO
2
Le Pine Funerals conducts State
funeral for former Premier of Victoria
InvoCare welcomes Christian Funerals
3
16
Prearranging’s time has come
4
Le Pine gives the RSL a helping
hand, again
16
5
Return service for the RSL
17
In Appreciation
6
Cancer Council feeling Chipper
17
When the Saints came marching in
8
Coping with grief: it’s traditional
18
9
David Lloyd opens new location
in Toronto
18
Celebration of a wonderful career
18
Liberty Funerals Granville opens
new chapel with a blessing
19
Somerville Funerals helps say
goodbye to SAS hero
19
Dedication of RSL Memorial
Wall in Nambour
20
Chippers joins the team with a party
20
George Harnett supports pilgrim’s
Brisbane stay
20
Technology points the way for
Future Leaders
Relic watch
Blessed reflections: Hansen on Frassati
10
With a proud history of professionalism,
service and care gained through close to
twenty-five years of service in the areas around
Perth, Christian Funerals is an integral part of
the community it serves.
The addition of Christian Funerals provides
both their team and InvoCare with the
Cemeteries & Crematoria
Lakeside Memorial Park helps school
prepare for remembrance celebrations
12
Learning to be More Effective
13
A hundred years of acknowledging mum 13
opportunity to further develop key community
relationships as well as to enhance the
services we offer.
Founded in 1984 it has, since 1989 been
Simplicity Funerals
White Lady Funerals
owned and managed by Duncan Roucco.
Simplicity support continues for
National Seniors
14
We are thrilled that Duncan will remain active
Product knowledge is the Key
14
in the business and that all Christian Funerals
New location in Sans Souci
15
Mareena Purslowe & Associates
supports the Cancer Nurses Society
of Australia Educational program
New location for Ryde
15
A touching end to a touching life
22
White Lady opens new location
23
Darren Stratti: volunteer will be
much missed
23
staff have chosen to stay on as well. Most
existing Christian Funerals employees will remain
at their Maylands location while the remainder
will join with our Shared Services team.
21
We look forward to working with all the team
at Christian Funerals and in formally welcoming
them at events to be held in August.
I N V O LV E
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Prearranging’s time has come
InvoCare’s prepaid funeral plan, Guardian Plan, has been part of our service offering since 1994 and in that time it has
gone from strength to strength, in part due to the demographic changes occurring across Australia generally.
As a population we are getting older and more
of us are moving into the final stages of our
modern lives. We are also becoming more
affluent, enabling us to enjoy our retirements
and filling them with the sorts of activities we
perhaps yearned for during our working lives
in addition to making sure our families are well
taken care of.
As a society we are also less constrained
by our traditions, whether that is the funeral
traditions of an earlier generation or the
taboos about discussing death and our final
arrangements. All of these trends are set
to deepen.
For the business of funeral arranging these
trends have opened up new opportunities with
customers now more comfortable discussing,
and frequently prepaying, the type of funeral
service they want for themselves. There are
a variety of reasons why people might be
motivated to do this and there are an ever
growing series of products people can
choose from.
But not all of these products are alike;
there are funeral bonds, funeral insurance
and prearranged funerals. InvoCare has
championed the prearranged funeral because
it provides the greatest opportunity to provide
the funeral service most in keeping with the
wishes of the deceased and it is the best way
to support those left behind.
Prearranged funerals capture a wide range of
options including the type of service, choice
of coffin or casket, funeral director and many
other details; details which can often be
traumatic for those left behind to work out
on their own.
Guardian Plan prearranged funerals allow you to tailor your service.
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Technology points the way for
Future Leaders
With their development plans locked in and their coaches assigned,
participants in InvoCare’s groundbreaking Future Leaders program recently
commenced work.
Development activities across the group include formal training programs on business
etiquette, negotiation skills and management workshops; acting in location manager roles;
undertaking projects and visiting different areas of the InvoCare business.
Sasha Moore-Shupick, General Manager, Preneed.
Recently, the growth in Guardian Plan’s
popularity was acknowledged at the highest
level within InvoCare through the recent
appointment of Sasha Moore-Shupick,
General Manager, Preneed.
“Prearranged funerals like those offered
through Guardian Plan provide for peace
of mind and make sure your wishes are
captured,” says Sasha.
“We offer clients the opportunity to take a
A successful feature of this year’s program has been the use of technology. A learning
community platform was developed for program participants that included a blog feature
so that Future Leader’s can share their experiences and useful resources. They have also
participated in a number of online learning seminars, or webinars, using technology to
network and share ideas via the internet and phone hook ups.
The next big milestone for the Future Leaders will be a meeting and two day workshop
in Sydney on 16-17 September where they will hear presentations from senior InvoCare
executives as well as lead group activities themselves.
A successful feature of this year’s program has been the use
of technology.
great burden off their family’s shoulders and
to record exactly the kind of funeral they
would like.”
But there are other products out there which
pretend to offer that kind of peace of mind
and yet don’t. A range of funeral bond and
insurance products are being widely promoted
but the benefits they offer seem limited when
compared to a prearranged funeral. Both
funeral bond and funeral insurance make an
agreed payment into the estate of a deceased
to cover the costs associated with a funeral
but they don’t record a person’s wishes and
nor do they provide the kind of support a
family torn by grief needs.
There are several prearranged funeral products
on the market but Guardian Plan, calling
upon InvoCare’s high reputation for care and
respect, provides an offering that meets the
needs of family’s now and in their time of need.
“There’s a lot of activity in the prearranged
sector of the funeral industry at the moment
and Guardian Plan is well placed to lead the
way,” says Sasha.
I N V O LV E
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Our greatest rewards come from families who acknowledge the care and pride we take in our daily work.
We are always very grateful when someone
From the time Barry came into our home
I have seen the plaque in place and we are
takes the time to write to us about the impact
until the time the funeral was over and dad
very happy with it.
we have made whilst serving their needs.
was buried he was a friendly, professional,
Most importantly, it is a tribute to the calibre
of our staff.
courteous and sensitive to the occasion.
The viewing was handled with care and dignity.
Dad looked so nice in his suit and I thought
Thank you for all of your care and concern.
Regards,
Val
To Brett and the team at Simplicity,
had a smile on his face. In was nice to have
Blackforest
closure to know Dad is in a good place now.
I will try to express in words my gratitude to
He looked very peaceful.
you for helping me and my family through one
The hearse was exceptional and fitting to
of the most surreal and terrible times of my life.
a man who left a big hole in our lives with his
Through your guidance, and good humour
passing. The flowers were well arranged on
the death of my mother was nowhere near
the coffin and were absolutely beautiful.
as traumatic as it could have been. I want
Barry was sensitive to our moods and catered
to thank you for your knowledge (which is
for our every need. On such a tragic and
immense) your acceptance of us and our
sombre occasion, the care and attention that
Thank you again for your service to me and my
own black humour, but more than anything,
Barry showed made life a whole lot easier for
family, it was very much appreciated.
knowing you were there whenever we needed
all of us.
you was a great comfort.
late father and mother which was removed by
persons unknown.
When we were advised of the loss, we were
treated with respect and understanding from
A big thank you for everything and I will never
forget the care and attention we received on
loved ones have said “no offence, but I don’t
this an event.
If ever I do require the services you provide
I am writing to thank you most sincerely for the
prompt replacement of the Memorial for my
You said many people after the funeral of their
want to see you again.” I feel quite differently.
To Leanne at Mt Druitt
Yours sincerely,
Francis
again, and I’m sure this situation will pop up
you for which we were extremely grateful.
Kind regards,
William
To Dan and Josh at Tobin Brothers
Queanbeyan
We would like to sincerely thank you for the
respectful and reverent way you and your staff
in my future, you will be the first one I call.
To dear Marie at Pinegrove
attended to my aunt’s funeral.
Thank you Brett for encouraging me to take
You truly are an angel.
From the moment we began discussing the
such a big role in saying my final farewells to
You’re the best and you’re appreciated more
prearranged funeral with you until the time we
my Mum.
than words can say.
said thank you to Josh our driver, we received
It takes a special kind of person to do the job
No words could even begin to express what you
you do, and an extra special person to do it as
have done for me and my family. May God bless
Kind regards,
well as you do.
you and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Roger and Freda
Kind Regards,
Yours truly,
Kristen
Dear David and staff at Simplicity
Noeline
Osborne Park
To Barry and all at George Harnett
Dear Lee at Pinegrove
After having had your professional services in
Funerals
I just wanted to thank you again for all the
I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude
trouble you went to with Mum’s plaque and
and thanks for the way my father’s funeral
coming to the house, saving me a long and
In prepaying for our plan through Guardian
was handled.
emotional trip out to Pinegrove.
seven years earlier it was beyond my
the best possible service.
place for the funeral of my wife I will go on to
say that I was totally satisfied as your client.
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In Appreciation
expectation to receive as much warmth and
generosity from all of you.
I will recommend you to anyone who is
uncertain about who to approach as I found
you to be the best within your field.
Having dressed my wife in her wedding dress
and veil with matching tiara and gold shoes
was to me a signifying point of saying my last
farewell to this vibrant , wonderful woman
who gave me 17 and a half years of wonderful
marriage and love.
I will call into your office with a few complimentary
country made cakes for you all to enjoy. I don’t
know if we can get any ginger slice, it depends
on the day.
I also would like you to pass on my sincere
thank you’s to your florist and Larry for
assisting me with the reading of my eulogy.
Thank you all for helping me through the
funeral and outlining hidden aspects which
would have caught me completely unaware.
Sincerely,
Frank
To Richard Davis and all at InvoCare
Thank you for your generous support
of Catholic Mission during World Youth
Day 2008.
Thank you for making a difference and allowing
youth from around the world to enjoy our week
long event.
Peace,
Lana Turvey
Diocesan Director, Sydney
Martin Teulan
Australian National Director
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When the Saints came marching in
World Youth Day brought an unprecedented number of Catholic pilgrims to Australia’s shores. Also arriving were the very
special remains of four young people chosen as patrons for the World Youth Day celebrations.
The relics are more than just
valuable objects, they are
venerated as well.
The relics are more than just valuable objects,
they are venerated as well.
“It was both an honour and a responsibility.
It was only about fifty years ago that Maria
Goretti’s mother was on hand to see her
daughter’s remains given to the Church.
That’s within living memory and so I felt
a real connection with her.”
Once they arrived in Australia, InvoCare’s
Traditional funeral brands assisted in the
transportation of the relics through South
Australia, Victoria and New South Wales and
in their presentation at a host of churches.
“Westerners can have an aversion to
body parts and so their transportation and
presentation had to be handled sensitively.
“We are very grateful of the role Guardian
Funerals played in getting the relics here
safely and in taking them around to so many
parishes: they were displayed with maturity
and I think both the pilgrims and Australians
Father Tiernan Doherty with the relics of the three Saints at Pinegrove.
generally received them very well.”
And for Father Doherty?
Karl Wolfenden, InvoCare’s new
“This was a first for the Passionists; not only that
Communications Manager, spoke to Relic
but it’s very unusual for relics to leave Italy and so
“I felt so close to the Saints and so did a lot
custodian Father Tiernan Doherty, the Passionist
a lot of work had to go into securing permission for
of those who came to see them in churches
priest behind the effort to bring three Saints:
them to come. There was also a lot of organising
around Australia.
Gabriel Possenti, Gemma Galgani and Maria
to be done here in Australia too.”
Goretti and one Blessed: Pier Giorgio Frassati
to Australia.
very young and I think they would’ve had a lot
which included discussions with Guardian
in common with the pilgrims.
“I was in Rome when it was announced that
Funerals’ Warwick Hansen, for transport of
Australia would be the destination for the 2008
the relics to Australia, Father Doherty secured
World Youth Day,” says Father Doherty.
permission for the relics to leave Italy from the
Despite the fact that the Passionists had
“All of the Saints and Blessed Frassati were
Thanks to a lot of behind the scenes work,
Vatican’s General Counsel.
“For example Gabriel Possenti would likely be
interested in cars, fashion and society. Having
the chance to tell young people about that
and then giving them the chance to actually
not previously been involved in Youth Day
“I was quite excited when I took possession
see them: I think all who saw came away
celebrations, the chance to be involved with
of the Saints’ remains. I was very nervous and
inspired by the Saints’ lives and with a better
the Australian event was too good to pass up.
kept my eyes on them.”
understanding of the role of relics.”
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Relic watch
InvoCare’s traditional funeral brands safely
conveyed the relics to the following locations:
New South Wales: Gaurdian Funerals
St Brigid’s
Marrackville
St Mary’s Cathedral
Sydney
May 31
June 1
St Gertrude’s
Smithfield
June 2
Little Sisters of the Poor Randwick
June 3
Oak Hill College
De La Salle
Castle Hill
June 4
Pinegrove Memorial
Park
Minchinbury
June 4
Our Lady of Fatima
Caringbah
June 5
The relics arrive at St Mary’s Cathedral.
Victoria: Le Pine Funerals
St Paul Apostle
Endeavour Hills
June 10
Carmelite Monastery
Kew
June 11
Nazareth House
Camberwell
June 11
St Bernadette’s
Sunshine North
June 11
Ballarat Cathedral
Ballarat
June 12
St Bernard’s
Ballarat
June 13
Holy Cross
Templestowe
June 14-15
South Australia: Blackwell Funerals
St Paul’s
Glen Osmond
June 17
St Francis of Assisi
Newton
June 18
St Luke’s
Noarlunga
June 18
Mater Christi
(South Australia)
Seaton
June 19
St Francis Xavier
Cathedral
Adelaide
June 20
Carmelite Sisters
Myrtle Bank
June 20
St Raphael
Parkside
June 22
Saints arrive in a Guardian hearse.
I felt so close to the Saints
and so did a lot of those who
came to see them in churches
around Australia.
Guardian Funerals’ staff and the relics.
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Blessed reflections: Hansen on Frassati
Over a period lasting more than two years Guardian Funerals’ Warwick Hansen worked with the Catholic Church and
intermediaries such as Mike Deasy from Catholic Missions Wollongong on the arrangements to bring Blessed Pier Giorgio
Frassati to Australia for World Youth Day.
Blessed Frassati died in 1925 at the age of
24 years. Although his body was never
treated, in 1981 his remains were found to be
incorrupt whereupon they were transferred
from his family crypt to the Cathedral in Turin.
To mark Blessed Frassati’s arrival, a special
prayer ceremony was held at InvoCare’s
Lidcombe operations centre.
“The ceremony was just beautiful – it just couldn’t
be described to anyone who didn’t attend. We
were led in prayers by Father David Catterall
who, during a brush with cancer, prayed to
Blessed Frassati. He is now in remission. His
prayers on the night were very special.”
After the Lidcombe service the real business
of taking Blessed Frassati to the scheduled
events began.
“The first was his arrival at St Benedict’s where
there was a great deal of media. We had to
carry him into the church – a task requiring six
bearers plus myself – the coffin weighed about
130 kilos. It certainly was a challenge.”
Despite the media frenzy at St Benedict’s, the
real excitement was yet to come.
Warwick Hansen with the remains of Blessed Frassati.
“Once in place at St Mary’s Cathedral, World
Karl Wolfenden spoke to Warwick about his
“Not only did the company make a donation
Youth Day pilgrims had started to arrive.
experiences of the organisation effort as well
but in many cases our local businesses
On Wednesday, July 23, we were due to
as all that went on while on the road with his
supplemented this with allocations from their
collect Blessed Frassati when a large group
fated travelling companion.
own funds. The more those local businesses
of Spanish pilgrims came into the Cathedral.
drove the relationship the more successful our
When I told them that the Blessed was here it
alliances became,” says Warwick.
all erupted: prayers, hymns, veneration of the
“What an experience! The opportunity for all
of those who participated far outweighed the
remains all happened. They erupted into songs
hours spent in making it all happen – I believe
And the arrangements to transport Blessed
in Spanish, waved their flags and chanted
it is something that will remain with those
Frassati?
‘Viva Frassati! Viva Frassati!’
involved for the rest of our lives.
“The family of Blessed Pier Gorgio and the
“It was something that all who participated
“It began when I made enquiries on behalf of
Church took care of the exhumation from his
will remember forever: the passion and the
InvoCare to see if we could be of assistance
crypt under a Turin Cathedral and we were to
fervour,” says Warwick.
in caring for Blessed Frassati as well as
take over once he arrived here.”
discussing potential financial sponsorship
of World Youth Day,” explains Warwick.
On the sponsorship side of things, through
its Traditional funeral brands and InvoCare
supported World Youth Day at the Diocese level
through a series of donations enabling each
Diocese to support World Youth Day pilgrims
and activities in the most appropriate way.
Any final thoughts?
But it couldn’t have been easy to secure
permission?
“A big thanks to all who participated, in particular
Barry Steward, Brad Bunting, Rob James (who
“Special permission was sought from the
did most of the daily inspections), Allan Wight,
Australian Quarantine Inspection Service and
Aiden Nye (Jnr), Joanne McGrath, Andrew
from the NSW Department of Health. One
Pulsford and the senior executives of InvoCare
provision they insisted on was the daily inspection
in making the decision to be involved.”
of the coffin for leaks and odours,” says Warwick.
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World Youth
Day donations
Dioceses
Traditional funeral brand
Brisbane
George Harnett
Sydney
Guardian
Melbourne
Le Pine
Adelaide
Blackwell
Perth
Purslowe
Newcastle
David Lloyd
Wollongong
Hansen & Cole
Canberra
Tobin Brothers
InvoCare, through its traditional funeral brands,
donated more than $40,000 to World Youth
A Guardian Funerals hearse collects Blessed Frassati upon his arrival in Sydney.
Day activities.
Intense media interest in the arrival of Blessed Frassati.
Guardian Funerals’ staff and World Youth Day’s Paul
Elarde with Blessed Frassati at St Mary’s Cathedral.
Invitees at the service held at Lidcombe pay their respects to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.
Blessed Frassati’s remains rest at St Mary’s Cathedral.
I N V O LV E
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InvoCare owns and operates
12 cemeteries and crematoria
Lakeside Memorial Park helps
school prepare for remembrance
celebrations
Queensland. They have a strong
Julie Harvey, Family Services Manager at Lakeside Memorial Park and senior
horticultural staff Bruno Kuehne and Simon Micallef recently took their Memorial
community education campaign back to school.
local heritage with some having
Koonawarra Public School’s War Memorial
25 school children enthusiastically participated in
been places of memories and
Garden was in need of some much needed
the digging, planting and watering in of the plants
care as the school prepares for to
and look forward to being able to wear rosemary
tranquility since the 1930s.
commemorate the 90th anniversary of
from their very own bushes in November and
Armistice Day on 11 November this year.
at other celebrations such as ANZAC day.
Those locations operating
“These gardens are an important focal point
“I don’t know who got the most pleasure out
a cemetery and crematoria
to teach and remind young Australians the
of this occasion; maybe it was the children
sacrifice service men and women made for
who can be very proud of their contribution
our country,” says Julie.
or maybe others who witnessed their excited
in New South Wales and
are known as Memorial Parks
energy and beaming faces all round.
and those operating only
Lakeside Memorial Park donated plants
a crematorium are called
including rosemary bushes, traditionally a
We are all looking forward to seeing the garden
sprig of which is worn on 11 November to
grow and develop over the coming months
mark the day World War I came to an end.
and years,” says Julie.
The school’s War Memorial Garden.
The kids get dug in.
Koonawarra kids show their enthusiasm.
Lakeside horticulturalists Bruno Kuehne and Simon
Micallef help Koonawarra Public School’s children in
the garden.
Memorial Gardens. Both are
beautiful, tranquil and peaceful
environments where people
can reflect on a life lived.
Australia’s multicultural nature
is recognised with a range of
burial, cremation and memorial
options on offer. These include
Asian sections designed by Feng
Shui masters and the availability
of outstanding crypts, vaults and
family mausoleums preferred by
many European communities.
There are hundreds of memorial
options to reflect the needs
of each individual and suit
all budgets.
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A hundred
years of
acknowledging
mum
In 1908 social activist Anna Jarvis
organised the very first modern
Mother’s Day.
Originally an ancient Roman festival called
Matronalia, it is now one of the most observed
days of celebration on our modern calendar and
for this reason it can be a difficult day for those
families that have lost their maternal pillar.
In order to commemorate the 100th anniversary
of Mother’s Day InvoCare’s cemetery and
crematoriums around Australia held another
in their series of popular Mother’s Day
memorial services.
From Sydney to Northern Brisbane and
everywhere in between people gathered
together at InvoCare cemeteries and
crematoriums to remember and pay tribute to
Learning to be More Effective
the women who gave so much of themselves.
Managers of the Cemetery and Crematoria Division in Queensland and
NSW recently participated in InvoCare’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Signature Programs”.
Three 7 Habits Workshops were conducted
This workshop assists managers
in house by Paul McMahon and Debbie
become more effective both personally
Proud from Human Resources who are both
and professionally.
accredited facilitators for the program, under
licence from Franklin Covey.
Each participant is given a detailed report
which allows them to identify areas for
In a fast paced world where many of us are
development and also provides a benchmark
working harder we don’t always feel that we
to measure improvement.
achieve more.
What did attendees think?
The response from participants was extremely positive who had this to say:
“An interesting and at times confronting experience”
“Thank you, it was well worth it, I would love to do more, much appreciated having
the opportunity”
“Cannot speak highly enough of the 3 days. Very useful”
“I have attended numerous “Management Seminars”. This one was outstanding in
giving ways to improve that cover the whole – all of life”
“A wonderful and complete learning experience”
Attendees at a Mother’s Day service lay flowers.
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Simplicity support continues
for National Seniors
Providing families with a simple,
dignified, respectful and affordable
approach to arranging a funeral.
Simplicity offers:
• A simple and practical
approach making arranging
a funeral an easy to
understand and smooth
process for families
• Affordable and flexible options
Pictured with Andrew is Steve Buckberry, General Manager Flinders trustee; Graeme Piggott,
President of the WA Branch and Mark Furness, CEO National Seniors Foundation.
enabling families to tailor the
funeral service to their needs,
expectations and budget
• Support for individuals
and communities through
National Seniors hosted a cocktail information evening for their members in Perth.
National Seniors provides peak representative services for people over 50 years
of age and have been active on a range of issues including the employment of
mature-age workers, consumer advocacy and awareness campaigns.
InvoCare and Simplicity have been partners with National Seniors for several years now and are
information and education
happy to have been part of this year’s event. Representing InvoCare in WA at the function was
beyond the funeral service
General Manager, Andrew Hogan and Simplicity Regional Manager, Daniel McKeig.
• 43 locations throughout
Australia
Product knowledge is the Key
A group of funeral arrangers and
conductors from Simplicity New South
Wales attended the premises of Key
Industries this June, taking a tour
of its facilities and deepening their
understanding of the attention to
detail taken in the construction of
their coffins and caskets.
Key Industries have been making quality
coffins and caskets since 1995.
The Simplicity group attended the premises
not once, but thrice, ensuring that as many
Glenn Wagus, Joanne Moore, Greg Bisset GM,
Dianna Sophios, George Simpson, Deborah Wiltshire,
Adam Lockhart, Terry Robbins (Key Industries),
Sarah Harkness, Mark Welladsen, Carolyn
Dolatowski, Skye Amy, Betty Gray.
conductors and arrangers as possible
benefited from a look at what goes into the
products. The tours were of great value and
will help those that attended match the right
product to the needs of the families they serve.
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San Souci, French for “without worry”,
recently had reason to be exactly that.
With a new Simplicity Funerals location
open in the district its residents will be able
to draw on Simplicity’s expertise and care
in making arranging a funeral as simple and
straightforward as possible.
Wendy Hughes, Location Manager, looks
forward to fulfilling her vocation as part of the
Sans Souci community and has made herself
available to residents wanting advice or who
have any questions about funerals.
Congratulations on the opening and good
luck to Wendy Hughes at Simplicity Funerals,
Sans Souci.
New location in Sans Souci
San Souci’s modern facilities set a high standard for the area.
Wendy Hughes looks forward to fulfilling her vocation as part of
the Sans Souci community.
New location for Ryde
It may have taken a little longer than expected but the opening earlier this year
of Simplicity’s Ryde location was all the more sweet for the delay.
Simplicity, through the normal development approval process, engaged extensively with
the community and local residents, putting aside unfounded fears about the process of
funeral arranging.
Skye Amy, Simplicity Funerals’ Ryde Location Manager completely understands.
“Some people expressed concerns about having a funeral director in the neighbourhood but
I think that arose from misconceptions about the funeral arrangement process. We welcomed
Simplicity Ryde’s interior is homely and comfortable.
the opportunity to deal with those concerns and dispel some of the myths about funeral
directors,” says Skye.
Already Skye has arranged to meet with other local business operators and is supporting
community events like the Granny Smith Festival and Ryde Aquatic Festival.
The office is bright and enjoys high visibility from busy nearby roads. This means the Ryde
location will be convenient for anyone in the area who needs to make arrangements when
a loved one has passed away.
“I welcome anyone wanting advice or answers to any questions about funerals to come in
and see us,” says Skye.
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InvoCare has 73 traditional style
locations in Australia including
some of the oldest names in
the Australian funeral business.
Through generations of
experience in the funeral
industry, and the strong heritage
Le Pine Funerals conducts
State funeral for former Premier
of Victoria
Lindsay Hamilton Simpson Thompson, the 40th Premier of Victoria, passed
away of 16 July 2008 and was honoured with a State funeral, conducted by
Le Pine Funerals.
Not only did Thompson serve his state in the
His funeral was attended by two former
highest political office but he was also the
Prime Ministers of Australia, four former
longest serving Victorian state politician in
Victorian Premiers and countless serving
history. He began his political tenure in 1955
politicians.
and served through to 1982.
associated with our names, the
traditional style brands bring
a wealth of experience to the
arranging process. Our staff fully
understand the requirements of
different cultures and religions.
Staff are recognised by their
traditional, smart attire.
The service offered is as
Guard of honor for The Hon Lindsay Thompson
AO CMG as he leaves the church. John Fowler –
Vic General Manager on left and Andy Brown –
Area Manager on right.
Hon Premier Mr Brumby, Hon Mr John Howard AC,
Hon Mr John Cain, Mr Ted Baillieu MP, Hon Mr Peter
Costello MP, Hon Peter Ross Edwards.
professional as it is personal.
Allen Matthews Funerals
Blackwell Funerals
Bruce Maurer Funerals
Byron District Funerals
Casino Funerals
Chippers Funeral Homes
Christian Funerals
David Lloyd Funerals
Drysdale Funerals
George Harnett Funerals
Guardian Funerals
Hansen & Cole Funerals
J&C Hardy Funerals
Le Pine gives the RSL a helping
hand, again
The Victorian branch of the Returned and Services League held its annual
conference in July and Le Pine Funeral Services were there once again to show
their support; this is the fifteenth year they have sponsored the conference.
“It is an excellent opportunity to catch up with
old friends,” says InvoCare General Manager,
John Fowler.
JW Chandler Funerals
The conference was opened by Victorian
Kevin Geaghan Funeral
Premier, the Hon. John Brumby and was
Le Pine Funerals
attended by over 800 delegates.
Metropolitan Funerals
Oakwood Funerals
Purslowe Funerals
Somerville Funerals
Tobin Brothers Funerals
William Riley & Sons Funerals
Le Pine Funeral Services representatives
Graham Coward, Dorothy Gibson, Leo Kenna
and John Fowler attended the conference,
giving away promotional gifts and discussing
the benefits of prearranged funerals.
An RSL member gets information from Guardian
Plan‘s Dorothy Gibson and Arranger/Conductor
Graham Coward.
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Return service for the RSL
RSL conference guests and attendees stand proud with Andrew Hogan, InvoCare
General Manager. On hand to was Lt Col(retired) Bill Crews (National RSL president),
His Excellency Dr. Ken Michael (Governor WA). Also in attendance were the Minister
and Shadow Minister for Veteran Affairs.
Right round Australia the Returned and Services League provides a range of benefits to its membership. For some it’s a
regular place to meet, for others it’s the perfect place for a slice of Sunday roast.
InvoCare has a long and proud association
than its fair share of loss and grief and they
of a funeral director, about the grief process
with the RSL and once again Western
invited InvoCare General Manager, Andrew
and the importance of celebrating someone’s
Australia’s Purslowe Funerals was happy to
Hogan to address the delegates on a range
lifetime of achievements,” says Andrew.
be a major sponsor of the State Conference
of issues relating to the end of life.
“It was great to be a part of the congress
held in Perth towards the end of June. But
Purslowe Funerals’ relationship with the RSL
“It was a privilege to speak to over 200 RSL
delegates at their congress about the role
and we looks forward to maintaining our very
strong links with the RSL.”
doesn’t end there. The RSL deals with more
It was great to be a part of the congress and we looks forward to maintaining our very strong links
with the RSL.
Cancer Council feeling Chipper
Every May the Cancer Council runs its Biggest Morning Tea fundraising
campaign. The Myaree Chippers location provided a venue for the function
this year which was well attended by both staff and visitors to the branch.
Simon Hughes, Location Manager and Carmel
“It was a great morning tea and all who
Markham, Arranger Conductor hosted the
attended enjoyed a wonderful spread for
event and attendees included Melville city
a great cause. A big congratulations to all
Mayor, Russell Aubrey and Andrew Hogan,
who helped put the day on,” Andrew says.
General Manager InvoCare.
Big smiles at the biggest morning tea.
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Coping with grief: it’s traditional
Very few professions deal with the amount of grief that funeral directors do and, thanks to some of InvoCare’s most
experienced professionals, the insights learned through a lifetime of service to families in need are being shared with
the community.
In anyone’s language Doris Zagdanski,
InvoCare General Manager Funerals
Queensland,is a renowned expert in the
field of coping with grief. She is the author
of five books on the subject that have helped
countless families and individuals find their
way through grief’s difficult straits. Doris
is also the host of countless seminars on
the topic and once again she has been
generous with her time, spreading her insights
in forums around Queensland. And she is
not alone. In South Australia Ivana Beltrame,
Blackwell Funerals Location Manager, recently
organised three seminars with noted speaker
and grief educator Mark Simpson.
In Perth Don Chipper, one of the Western
Australian funeral industry’s most recognisable
names is also on the road, holding seminars
and helping people in need as well as the
intermediaries they turn to deal with grief.
Quite apart from these public occasions, every
funeral arranger in private helps people on a
daily basis to come to terms with grief and loss.
InvoCare thanks all who shared their
experiences and insights on grief with the
community and with clients.
Every funeral arranger in private helps people on a daily basis to come to terms with grief and loss.
David Lloyd opens new location in Toronto
David Lloyd Funerals presence in the Newcastle region just became stronger with the opening of a new location in Toronto.
The location is highly visible to passing traffic; has reception, arranging and showroom facilities and is open five days a week.
The new location services the fast growing
The opening of the Toronto location is a
West Lakes area of the city of Lake Macquarie,
major improvement in funeral servicing for
home to over 200,000 residents, and is
the Lake Macquarie area. Prior to the new
strategically located near Lake Macquarie
opening, residents only other choices were a
Memorial Park. The Park’s chapel and function
competitor’s unattended office or a long drive.
rooms will be utilised often by the new location
for the services it arranges. With this new
location up and running, David Lloyd Funerals
is in a great position to further extend its
Paula Scott at the new Toronto reception area.
Paula Scott is the Toronto location’s Arranger
Conductor and can be contacted on (02) 4959
3600 or [email protected]
market coverage in the Newcastle area.
Celebration of a wonderful career
Kevin and Shirley Geaghan hosted a celebration dinner on 4 July to
commemorate 30 years of service to the funeral industry and to the community.
Kevin Geaghan Funerals began arranging and conducting funerals in 1978 and has been part
of the InvoCare team since 1995. When Kevin joined he also brought with him a suite of well
known funeral brands such as William Riley Funerals, Lismore; Casino Funerals and Monuments,
Casino; Hill & Virtue Funerals – Goonellabah; as well as a small country cemetery, Lismore
Memorial Park.
Although now retired, Kevin continues to be involved in the business and can often be found
staffing an office on busy days or attending functions in the local community.
Scott Steenson, Regional Manager Northern Rivers,
Kevin Geaghan and InvoCare General Manager,
Doris Zagdanski.
“It was a wonderful evening of speeches and reminiscing, attended by family and staff, past
and present,” says InvoCare General Manager, Doris Zagdanski.
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Liberty Funerals Granville opens new chapel with
a blessing
Liberty Funeral’s Granville’s new chapel.
Guests enjoyed mingling before the ceremony.
In order to provide the best service to the community, sometimes we have to recreate ourselves. And that’s exactly what
happened at Liberty Funerals Granville.
A program of renovation activities was recently
“We deliberately chose to incorporate community
“This is a major step forward as the work has
completed at Liberty Funerals Granville and
consultation into our development and we have
made a distinct difference to Liberty Funerals’
the new facilities were inaugurated with a
extended particular consideration to people of
Graville location, and I’m confident that the local
ceremony officiated by two senior Maronite
diverse ethnicities who reside in the local area,”
community will appreciate the benefits of the
clerics; Bishop of Australia, His Excelllency
says Sam Koura, Founder, Liberty Funerals.
new interiors and infrastructure.” Sam says.
Bishop Ad Abikaram, and His Eminence
Archbishop Aghan Baliozian.
In addition to a new chapel which is well suited
to hosting funerals from a variety of faiths, the
The local community will
The opening blessing ceremony marked an
site also had improvements made to the foyer
important part of Liberty’s engagement with
and new catering facilities installed. This will be
appreciate the benefits.
the community.
followed by new audiovisual equipment.
Somerville Funerals helps say goodbye to SAS hero
When SAS Signaller, Sean McCarthy, was killed while on active duty in Afghanistan it created a massive void in the life of
his parents David and Mary McCarthy.
His parents turned to Ann Dawson at Somerville
Funerals to assist in the arrangements for their
son’s funeral. Attendees at the funeral included
many representatives from Sean’s primary and
secondary schools, his friends both from within
and outside the armed services as well as
many from the Gold Coast community.
Also in attendance were Prime Minister, Kevin
Rudd and Opposition leader, Brendan Nelson.
David and Mary McCarthy were overwhelmed
by the show of support they received from
friends and strangers alike. They expressed
their thanks to all who helped them through
an article in the Gold Coast Bulletin.
David and Mary McCarthy
were overwhelmed by the show
of support they received from
friends and strangers alike.
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Dedication of RSL Memorial Wall in Nambour
On Sunday 26 July Prime Minister
Kevin Rudd unveiled a dedication
plaque at the RSL Memorial Wall in
Quota Park in Nambour Queensland.
Drysdale Funerals has long been a sponsor
The function was well attended by state,
federal and local politicians, present and
serving members of the armed forces
as well as a broad cross section of the
community including school children and
local business people.
of the wall and Location Manager, Christine
Jones was on hand to witness the dedication.
Nambour was part of the famour Brisbane line
Drysdale Funerals Location Manager, Christine Jones
and Prime Minister, the Hon. Kevin Rudd.
during World War II and the town holds their
memorial in high esteem.
The function was well attended
by state, federal and local
politicians.
Chippers joins the team with
a party
The Chippers group of funeral directors have a well deserved reputation in
Western Australia and it was a genuine meeting of equals when they met with
InvoCare staff for a social evening earlier this year to mark the occasion of
Chippers joining the InvoCare family.
Retiring Chippers employee Lorraine Ford with
colleague Brian Ainsworth.
“The welcoming of staff from the Chippers
“We met in North Perth for a social event,
Not all of the Chippers staff would be carrying
group was one of our most exciting events of
breaking the ice and sharing stories. We all
on with their vocation. Lorraine Ford retired
recent times,” says Andrew Hogan, InvoCare
felt as if we belonged together.” Andrew says.
after 9 years at the Chippers Subiaco location.
General Manager.
While much of the focus of the event was on
Many staff were on hand for the function,
representing all of InvoCare’s brands in welcoming
such an established team into the fold.
the welcoming there was also the opportunity
to thank members of the Chippers group for
their long service.
“A great night was had by all as we got to
know each other and farewelled Lorraine,
wishing her all the best for a happy retirement.”
George Harnett supports pilgrim’s Brisbane stay
As part of InvoCare’s involvement in
World Youth Day, George Hartnett
Funerals in Brisbane had the great
pleasure in presenting Bishop Brian
Finnigan and Michael Hart a cheque
for $10,000.00 as sponsorship for
‘The Days In The Diocese’ Brisbane.
Many pilgrims from around the world stopped
off in Brisbane on their way to Sydney for
the World Youth Day celebrations; many
thousands of whom were billeted by host
Mark Carey (George Harnett Regional Manager)
presents a cheque to Bishop Brian Finnigan
(WYD Prepatory Committee) and Michael Hart
(WYD Secretariat project co-ordinator).
families in the Brisbane area.
The sponsorship provided by George Hartnett
Funerals was used to create a booklet for
pilgrims and host families called the Bristay Guide.
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White Lady Funerals and
Mareena Purslowe & Associates
are staffed entirely by women
bringing a refreshing, modern
touch to the funeral industry.
They:
• Uniquely feature all female
staff, elegant white uniforms
with burgundy hats and a fleet
of white vehicles
Andrew Hogan, InvoCare General Manager with CSNA committee members.
• Offer funeral services for those
who want greater diversity
in honouring the life of
a loved one
• Reflect an eye for detail as
they draw on a loved one’s life
to personalise arrangements
as well as producing
attendance cards and
memorial books and providing
Mareena Purslowe & Associates
supports the Cancer Nurses
Society of Australia Educational
program
InvoCare WA and Mareena Purslowe & Associates are very pleased to announce
that they have recently become major sponsors and supporters of the Cancer
Nurses Society of Australia’s (CNSA) education program for nurses and palliative
care workers.
memorial candles to families
The program is important, providing key
the years ahead,” says Andrew Hogan,
information to community health care
InvoCare’s General Manager Western Australia.
at the end of the service
providers. During the program InvoCare will
provide CNSA members with training in grief
• Provide an after service
care that is second to none
throughout the White Lady
Funeral homes Australia wide
and loss and in dealing with grieving families.
A CSNA dinner and seminar was held in July
at Perth’s Royal Yacht Club. Andrew Hogan
and Mareena Purslowe & Associates’ Regional
“This is just the start of our relationship with
Manager, Pam Castensen, and Jacinta
CNSA and we are hopeful that it will grow in
Williamson were in attendance.
This is just the start of our relationship with CNSA and we are
hopeful that it will grow in the years ahead.
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A touching end
to a touching life
In June this year Jane McGrath, wife
of Australian cricketer Glen McGrath,
passed away after the breast cancer
she had so publicly fought returned
stronger than ever.
Known for her fighting spirit, she helped raise
with police, the media and with Cricket
donated their professional fees from the day
awareness about the disease through the
Australia prior to the service.
to the McGrath Foundation.
The funeral; held at the Garrison church in
Guests on the day included Steve Waugh,
the Rocks, the same church Jane and Glen
Shane Warne, Mark Taylor and Ian Healy
were married in nine years earlier, took place
and the eulogy was delivered by Sydney
on a beautiful Sydney day on 25 June. The
broadcaster Alan Jones. One of Alan’s lines
champagne and pink tulips flowers featured
struck a particular chord with attendees:
on the day were also the same as those from
“Every day was a battle, yet paradoxically
Jane’s wedding bouquet. Three white doves
every day she sought to strengthen others in
were released at the service’s conclusion.
their same battle. The private Jane McGrath
McGrath Foundation, a charity she founded
in response to her original diagnosis. The
Foundation was able to elevate the plight of
breast cancer sufferers through the force of
her tireless personality as well as raise funds
for research and nurses through the support
of many of her husband’s cricket colleagues,
some of whom raised funds through the
distinctive “pink grip” sponsorship, and
through community fund raising events.
White Lady Funerals were chosen by the family
to arrange and conduct Jane’s funeral service.
“It was an honour to be of service to the McGrath
was waging the public fight.”
family in this difficult time,” says Juliette Frame,
For more information about the Jane McGrath
White Lady Regional Manager, NSW.
Foundation, or to make a donation, visit
There was a high degree of interest in the
“I’d like to personally thank all who participated
funeral and White Lady ensured the day would
and contributed in the smooth running of
be respectful and peaceful by coordinating
Jane’s service,” Juliette adds. White Lady
http://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au
One of Alan’s lines struck a particular chord with attendees: “Every day was a battle, yet paradoxically
every day she sought to strengthen others in their same battle. The private Jane McGrath was waging
the public fight.”
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White Lady opens new location
On August 11 White Lady Nelson
Bay opened its doors to service its
new community.
The Port Stephens area on New South Wales’
central coast is a growing region which has
experienced substantial growth in recent years
including a thriving retirement community.
We wish all the team at White Lady Nelson
Bay the very best of starts.
White Lady’s new Nelson Bay location.
Darren Stratti: volunteer will be
much missed
So many people were affected by the passing of 36 year old Darren Stratti,
and not just his friends and family in Australia.
Darren was a volunteer with charity group
White Lady Funerals were honoured to
foodshelterwater Inc and was only months
have been chosen to assist the Stratti family
away from completing a major construction
and provided their professional services free
project to benefit orphans in Tanzania; the
of charge.
Kesho Leo children’s village.
A memorial service in the Tanzanian village
Darren was shot when bandits attacked the
where Darren was based attracted around
construction site, intending to steal around
five hundred people.
$6000 cash that would have gone towards
completing the site.
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Liberty Funerals Granville new chapel
Involve welcomes your contributions:
Locked Bag 8000, Crows Nest NSW 2065
or fax to: 02 9459 3906
or email: [email protected]
© Invocare Limited ABN 42 096 437 393
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