Issue 6 - September 2005

Good Neighbours – See page 4
Involve
The Official News Forum of InvoCare
Issue 6 September 2005
New facilities
4
5
14
16
Emerging trends in the
funeral industry
An unexpected
experience
A special
thank you
Offering
support
Editor’s note
The funeral industry in general has made its fair share of headlines
locations as well as its cemeteries
this year, due largely to several inquiries being conducted into the
and crematoria have in the local
industry. The most prominent are in Victoria and New South Wales.
community.
Whilst stories have surfaced of misconduct by a very small minority
of funeral homes, the inquiries to date have largely been a positive
opportunity to dispel some of the myths about the industry. One of
the greatest myths is that the industry is around 80% foreign
owned and that the smaller operators are gradually being taken
over by big corporate entities. In fact the opposite is true; foreign
ownership in the industry is now almost nothing and each year
more competitors are entering the market.
... the funeral industry is no longer simply a
profession that is always needed but never
discussed. Indeed funeral homes have now
been the subject of TV shows ...
Some of the stories contained within
this edition of Involve have received
positive coverage in the mainstream
media. Importantly the media and the
Anthony Perl
public are coming to us to better
understand how the industry operates, where in the past they may
have assumed something to be true that is in reality a myth.
Just the other day I received a call from a radio station, wanting
to understand what was involved in the placement of a
memorial plaque.
The assumption had been that plaques were pre-prepared and
just needed to be engraved and placed, where actually they are
each made from scratch once an order is made. Slowly the media
and the public will understand the old fashioned undertaker who
The public debate about whether tighter more structured
regulations should be introduced to govern the funeral industry has
worked in a funeral parlour has been replaced by funeral arrangers
and directors who work from a funeral home.
gathered plenty of headlines. There is a greater willingness to talk
A funeral service is more likely to be a personalised celebration of a
about the issues; the funeral industry is no longer simply a
life. InvoCare’s cemeteries are called Memorial Parks and the
profession that is always needed but never discussed. Indeed
crematoria Memorial Gardens with each offering a variety of
funeral homes have now been the subject of TV shows, both
memorial options set amongst beautiful surrounds – quite different
fictional and documentary style. It is no longer the case that the
from the image of run down cemeteries with rows of the same type
only stories relating to the funeral industry in the media are negative.
of headstones that are no longer legible.
In tracking the amount of coverage received by InvoCare, the
overwhelming majority of it is positive.
The little stories that filter through all play their role in the trend
toward a positive portrayal of the industry, and InvoCare is leading
The Company has been active in trying to offer positive stories to
the way through the public recognition of the efforts of staff.
the media about the involvement of staff, the funeral home
IT Update
InvoCare’s IT department has been busy ensuring for their part,
The next phase will see the
the company remains true to one of the elements that makes up
transfer of the company’s
its name – ‘innovation’.
prepaid funeral / memorial
information to Epicor. As part
Recently appointed General Manager Information Systems, John
of the process, a disaster
Brennan has brought with him a wealth of experience as he
recovery system has also
oversees the development and implementation of the Epicor and
been established as a
Meridian systems and the company’s business continuity plan.
security mechanism.
Epicor a new system designed to help provide data and
The company’s payroll system
information to assist management and staff carrying out their
Micropay, has been upgraded
duties by delivering a more comprehensive computer based
to Meridian. This gives the pay
information, records and booking system. The funeral homes have
office a more effective
and manageable package and
been using the system for a while and by the start of September
has the capability to be
three-quarters of the cemeteries / crematoria will also be online.
developed further.
2)
CEO report
InvoCare’s half year trading results are due for release in
September, with the company’s performance as always, affected
by the number of deaths.
Historically there are always fewer deaths in the first 6 months of
the year, coinciding with the warmer summer months. This year
the weather has been warmer and drier which is likely to have
contributed to fewer than expected deaths for the start of 2005.
In spite of that fact, trading has been strong.
The Company is enjoying its second full year trading as a publicly
listed company. The change has given employees and the general
public a chance to have a financial stake in the company and has
further invigorated the passion and drive to continue to improve
standards and lead the industry. Certainly the solid results
delivered by the Company so far have been very well received.
It has often been said that the funeral industry is a mystery to
anyone who does not work in it, but the public listing of the
company has helped change that view.
As required by any company listed on the Australian Stock
Exchange, we have a full disclosure of our financial results,
including who owns the company as well as details about its
direction and future intentions. As it stands now, InvoCare is wholly
publicly listed with a foreign ownership component of less than 1%.
With several inquiries into the industry currently underway and
due to deliver their findings later this year, the one constant issue
has been the need for greater
regulation. InvoCare has supported
this move and as such made
submissions to the inquiries.
The Board has spent time visiting
locations, to ensure they continue to
familiarise themselves with the
Richard Davis
issues facing staff and families on a
daily basis. Recently the Board has
been to Rookwood Memorial Gardens and Crematorium in
Sydney and spent time in Queensland at Albany Creek Memorial
Park and Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens, Cannon & Cripps
Funerals and a White Lady Funerals location.
The company has continued to focus on improving service levels
and facilities; following a trend in recent years for families to
spend more time assessing which funeral home, cemetery or
crematoria they will use. This has come through both the
extensive learning and development program and the general
distribution of staffing resources to allow them to spend as much
time as required with client families.
InvoCare continues conducting extensive surveys of its client
families, the statistics from this reveal that for almost 97% of
those surveyed say we have met or exceeded their expectations.
The evidence is clearly there that our staff are doing a fantastic
job at what is often an extremely emotional time for a family.
COO report
To further support the development of the cemeteries and
crematoria in Queensland, the InvoCare Board have announced
the development of a mausoleum complex at Albany Creek
Memorial Park and the development of a new chapel and office
complex at Allambe Memorial Park on the Gold Coast.
Construction of the Allambe facilities has commenced and will
provide a new light and airy Gold Coast feel to the location.
The new the mausoleum will be the first of its kind in South East
Queensland and will provide particularly the Italian community
with a unique place of remembrance.
InvoCare was pleased to announce that the Learning and
Development Framework has been completed. The Framework
forms the basis for how staff are recruited, developed and
managed throughout their carer at InvoCare. This Framework is
not only industry leading but also
the envy of many mainstream
businesses. The finalisation of
the Framework the first of the
“e” learning programs has been
released to staff. The induction
program provides staff with the
opportunity to carry out there
in induction in a self paced
Mike Grehan
environment. Additional “e” learning
programs covering various other
aspects of management and operations are progressively being
realised over coming months.
InvoCare continues to lead the industry with the introduction earlier
this year of a new coffin and casket range in NSW. The range aims
to provide consumers with appropriate options yet still reflects the
celebration of life approach that is increasingly becoming more
common. Initial reaction of consumers has been extremely positive.
With the progressive development of consistency of the NSW
funeral brands new signage will progressively start to appear
around locations. The new signage will over time introduce the
Guardian Brand. The first locations at Minchinbury, Rockdale,
Blacktown and Hurstville will be completed in coming weeks with
the rest of the locations planned to be completed by the end
of the year.
)
In August it was very rewarding to open the new condolence
lounge and refurbished Garden Chapel at Albany Creek Memorial
Park in Brisbane with the Federal member for the Area the Hon
Teresa Gambaro. The Bridgeman Lounge as it is referred to with
its coffee shop, florist and function areas along with the freshly
decorated Garden Chapel with its state of the art facilities seek
to match the changing community expectations. The 1,200
patrons in the first month of operation are voting with their feet
and have been extremely supportive of the new facilities.
Naturally we are looking toward similar support when the new
Multicultural Office complex at Pinegrove Memorial Park in
Sydney’s west is opened later this year.
Involve 3
Emerging Trends in the Funeral Industry
A recent survey by Senioragency Australia of InvoCare Funeral
Directors in NSW revealed some findings that may seem obvious
to those working within the industry, but will come as quite a
surprise to the general public. Senioragency, in conjunction with
InvoCare, are undertaking an awareness campaign to educate
the general public about the passion, creativity and
professionalism of the funeral industry.
Below are some of the findings that have been released to the
local media. These, combined with some of the interesting
personal stories of staff are functioning to enlighten people about
the industry and those working in it.
Many funeral directors stay in the industry for their entire career
and experience high job satisfaction. The funeral industry
is predominantly a place for the older worker with a significant
proportion (38%) of workers in InvoCare’s brands aged 50
and over.
What you may not realise is that the funeral industry is a place
for women. 52% of InvoCare’s employees are women, and they
are directly responsible for shattering a few long-held myths
about what happens to us when we pass on.
Australians are making their funerals more personalised, and as
Australians are making their funerals more
personalised, and as part of that they are
requesting roses, native Australian flora
and lilies.
Funeral Directors are very active in sponsorship and fundraising
in the local community, something which has been part of our
part of that they are requesting roses, native Australian flora
and lilies.
The survey also generated a list of most requested songs for
funerals. The classic Amazing Grace by Nana Mouskouri was the
number one choice. Andrea Boccelli’s Time to Say Goodbye, is
at number two, with Bette Midler’s Wind Beneath My Wings
completing the top three.
culture for generations continues unabated. Funeral Directors
Chris Cormack
overall feel strongly that their role is to serve, provide support
Group Managing Director
and care for their local community.
Senioragency Australia
Neighbours – there for one another…
“Neighbours, everybody needs good neighbours….”
Le Pine Funerals in Melbourne have proven to be just that, by
assisting on set for 2 forthcoming episodes of the Channel Ten
weekly soapie, Neighbours.
In one scene to be aired on November 17 Eric Mehlert from the
Croydon branch appears driving the Le Pine Funerals hearse.
For an episode to be aired on December 13, Fred Farrugia, the
Manager of the Thornbury branch, acted as a technical adviser
on a scene involving a funeral.
…”that’s how good neighbours become good friends.”
4)
Eric Mehlert from the Croydon branch drives a hearse in Neighbours
An Unexpected Experience
St Mary’s Parish in North Sydney recently hosted a Women’s
Night of Spirituality where prominent people from the wider
community both Catholic and non Catholic were invited to share
their spiritual journey. I was asked to share my story and found
myself in the delightful company of Rachael Ward (actor) and
Gabby Hollows (Fred Hollows Foundation) and Geraldine Doogue
(ABC journalist) as the MC. We were given about 12 minutes to
share our story, which was a task in itself trying to fit a life of
spirituality into such a short space of time.
The church was crowded with over nine hundred women,
crammed into the seats including the gallery and around the
steps of the church sanctuary eagerly waiting to hear our stories.
About thirty brave men were sprinkled in the audience.
Wow! I had to breathe easy and become part of this unexpected
size of audience.
As I was the last speaker the nerves built up a certain
Gabby and Bill
momentum! I thought, the best way to cope was to look at this
as an opportunity to hold these people in the palm of my hand
and enjoy the experience. They were spellbound as I shared
some of my life story and how I had coped with the ups and
downs of life. It seemed to be such an ordinary journey to me
but these wonderful women just soaked it up like sponges!
I told of how I had spent 38 years in Religious roles, having had
various ministries in Education and Pastoral Care. I make a
contrast of what religious life was like in the late 50’s and how a
metamorphis has happened over the years. Telling them about
not being able to attend my father’s funeral was a shock to
When the talk was over, there were questions in my direction and
many of the people wanted to meet Bill! Some young women
who were in the school where I was in my early religious life
came and hugged me and said, “at last we have found you!”
Many people came and asked me for my Allen Matthews
Funerals business card. One lady Doctor from the Mater hospital
came and spoke to me and consequently a fortnight later I was
asked to visit a lady their who was dying of cancer and wanted to
talk about her own funeral service. A week later, I was the
celebrant of her life’s celebration. What a privilege for me.
many. I had been told to stop crying and be the tower of
In the week following the Women’s Night of Spirituality about six
strength for my family. I must admit, it took me many years to
ladies called into my office to congratulate and thank me for
learn to cry. Over ten years ago, when the time came for me to
having the courage to share my story with so many. I have had
leave religious life because of burnout and disappointment, I
phone calls telling me how fantastic my talk was on that night.
applied for a job with Allen Matthews Funerals. Because I had
worked with people living with AIDS, I had trained as a grief
counsellor and I thought I would have something to offer those
who were grieving. At the same time I thought it was the end of
the line when it came to work! The reverse happened for me as I
I was again invited to share my story and how I coped with
adversity this time with a group of about ninety people who are
living with diabetes. I received many responses, all were positive
saying they found my story inspiring.
really came to life again when I realised that I had love, empathy
Last week, a lady the North Shore Research came to give me
and compassion to share with those who are vulnerable.
some envelopes for families and she looked at me and said, I
Personally, my strength came from the words of Jeremiah the
know your name, you sound as though you are famous. My reply
Prophet “My plans for you are peace, not disaster.” This was my
was that I am just ordinary me without any fame and then she
theme song and continues to be my strength and
said “I know, did you marry Bill?”
encouragement when life gets tough.
Who knows what happens when you heed and believe the
Applause rang through the church audience when I told them
words, “My plans for you are peace not disaster” Contacts come
that four years ago I met Bill and the sigh of support was very
from the most unexpected of experiences and my experience
audible when I told them that Bill proposed to me last year on
has been positive.
Valentine’s Day (women still love to hear a romantic story!) and
9th April this year.
Gabby Toner
Location Manager – Allen Matthews Funerals, Cremorne
)
how we were married at St Francis Xavier’s Lavender Bay on
Involve 5
Understanding Prepaid Funerals
payment to the fund will entitle the member to receive a certain
contribution towards the cost of the funeral. It works in much the
same way as when you go to hospital, your health fund pays
some of the costs for accommodation and doctors etc.
With a Guardian Plan you prepay selected services in full, or by
instalments. Once paid the costs are secured no matter when
the service is provided, consequently relieving family and friends
of the financial burden. Guardian Plan operates through the
network of InvoCare locations and therefore offers more flexibility
for people if they move. The other advantages of a Guardian
Around one in ten Australians has prepaid their funeral,
Plan for the funeral and/or the cemetery/crematoria are
something which has become increasingly popular over the last
emotional and practical as well as financial. You have time to
60 or 70 years. These days InvoCare funeral homes, cemeteries
make decisions and you control the process and detail to be
and crematoria all offer the Guardian Plan, a prepaid plan where
included (from the coffin type, to the music to be played, where
you can pay for selected services at today’s prices. But while this
the service will be, whether it is a cremation or burial through to
is the product offered by InvoCare today and over the past ten
the choice of memorial).
years, the company continues to manage various other funds it
The reason none of the options for prepaying your funeral include
has acquired over the years. There is a myriad of different rules
all costs is because there are costs which involve external parties
for each one.
such as florists, newspapers and clergy/celebrants that can not
In the market today there are products offered by banks and
be fixed.
insurance companies which work in much the same vein as an
The most difficult issue facing all the options offered is
insurance policy. Consumers contribute regularly to a policy which
maintaining correct contact details. One of the most common
covers the costs of a funeral up to a certain specified amount.
problems is when someone moves, for example, into an aged
The policy requires on-going payments for it to be maintained as
care facility, if the family are not aware of a funeral
with any other insurance policy. Depending on the length of time
contract/policy/fund then there is a chance the company
this policy is maintained, it may be an expensive option.
managing it will not be notified. This is especially critical in the
Importantly you also have to maintain the regular repayments.
case of a fund or insurance type policy where continued regular
These are financial products and not prepaid funeral contracts.
payments are required or entitlements are forfeited.
InvoCare manages a number of contribution funds established
Speak to Guardian Plan on 1800 151 158 about the
decades ago which are now closed to new membership. The
options available.
idea for members was that a small regular (usually annual)
An honour
There are not many people
When you pass the magical milestone of 100, you get the
who can lay claim to
opportunity to receive a letter from the Queen and have the
having lived in three
Premier, Peter Beattie pay a visit.
centuries, but 105 year old
Elsie Watterson was one of
those rare people. Born on
May 3 1899, Elsie a former
dress maker who married
at the age of 36 died
recently and gave George
The funeral was attended by mainly close relatives including
three her three daughters along with friends and representatives
from the nursing home where she was a resident. ‘Sharp as a
tack’ right to the very end, Elsie would keep everyone on their
toes with her very sharp brain. Suffice to say everyone in the
nursing home knew exactly where they stood.
Hartnett Funerals at
One of Elsie’s daughter’s, Merle visits the funeral home on a
Cleveland the honour of
regular basis and is like a part of the George Hartnett family,
conducting her funeral.
even attending their Christmas party last year with her husband.
6)
Helping celebrate
Le Pine Funerals at St Kilda in Melbourne were recently involved
in the 150 year celebration of the St Kilda Cemetery.
They had a re-enactment which utilised Le Pine’s horse
drawn hearse. There was a plaque unveiling and I was among
those who participated in commemorative tree plantings.
It was a great day with many in attendance, including the
Lord Mayor. The Melbourne Herald Sun news paper as well as
Channel 7 and Channel 9 News covered the event and featured
myself and our hearse.
Trevor Martin
Location Manager – Le Pine Funerals, St Kilda
Who Cares for
the Carer?
Constable
Care
Mareena Purslowe & Associates Funerals at Willetton in Western
Mareena Purslowe and Associates Funerals in Western Australia
Australia has begun offering educational sessions in
raised around $5000 for the Constable Care Child’s Safety
“Communicating with Grieving People” in the southern areas of
Program, by hosting a Rock’n’ Roll night.
Perth. The sessions, which are inspired by the success of a similar
program in Queensland, is aimed at the people who care for our
The original idea for a dance as a good fundraiser was mine,
aged, frail and terminally ill patients; in nursing homes, hostels
and I helped put the wheels in motion for the event.
and hospices.
Most of the staff from the Subiaco branch attended and
An invitation to participate was sent out and Tamara Cohen
contributed to the events success. Stacey Parnham was our
(B.A. Pysch.), a qualified counsellor, was engaged to deliver these
catering coordinator.
sessions to the many staff that showed interest from the care
sector. These popular, 2 hours interactive seminars have been
held in June, July and August.
Over 200 people attended, dancing to 60’s and 70’s music and
had a great time. There was a floor show and the experts
showed us how to Rock’n’Roll.
The sessions are held in the funeral home with the idea of exposing
participants to the facilities offered at Mareena Purslowe &
Because of the dances success, we are now making this
Associates Funerals.
fundraiser an annual event. I can’t think of a more worthy cause,
The seminars are designed to give participants some insight into
how to communicate with the families of their patients at the time of
death. It also places equal importance on staff being able to
considering the funds go to the welfare of our young children,
who in turn become our young men and women of the future.
It is our responsibility to give these young people a good start in
express themselves to their colleagues.
their lives.
The response from the carer’s and nursing staff was far better than
To all the wonderful people who helped us, to the generous
initially anticipated. Almost all of the carers chose to do the course
people who bought tickets and put their hand in their pockets
in their own time outside of paid hours, as they felt it was an area
for our auctions, thank you. I look forward to the next dance to
that was rarely addressed. Aside from the educational value of the
be held in March 2006.
sessions, this show of support for the local community has created
a keen interest in the services and facilities provided by Mareena
Purslowe and Associates Funerals.
Peta Page
Location Manager
Mareena Purslowe and
Pam Castensen
Associates Funerals, Subiaco
Location Manager
Mareena Purslowe and Associates Funerals, Willetton
)
Involve 7
Forest Lawn Memorial Park
In New Light
Continuing on our series from previous
editions of ‘Involve’, we are taking the
opportunity to showcase some of the
images taken by photographer Christopher
Shain of each of InvoCare’s Memorial Parks
and Gardens.
The focus for the series of photographs was
particularly on the natural local beauty each
location provides in its own unique way. This
issue we are featuring Forest Lawn Memorial
Park at Leppington in Sydney.
8)
New Facilities
The Memorial Parks and Gardens operated by InvoCare (its
cemeteries and crematoria) are continuing to receive upgrades in
the facilities it offers families. Following on from the refurbishment
of Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium in
Sydney and the addition of new crypt complexes at Lakeside
Memorial Park in Wollongong and Pinegrove Memorial Park in
Sydney, the focus is now also on Queensland.
The “Bridgeman Lounge”, the new condolence facility at Albany
Creek Memorial Park in Brisbane has just been officially opened
at a private function. The new complex includes a coffee shop
and florist shop and has the capability of being segregated to
cater for 2 functions at once. At the same time the refurbished
Garden Chapel was also unveiled. The refurbished chapel has a
state of the art audio visual system with plasma television screen
and embodies a sense of openness.
Honoured guests attending the private opening and viewing
included Federal Member for Petrie, The Hon Teresa Gambaro
MP, RSL State President Bill Mason, Brisbane City Councillors
Carol Cashman, Norm Wyndham, Victoria Newton and InvoCare
Chief Operating Officer Mike Grehan. The site was blessed by
Father Mauro Conte.
A $1.8 million upgrade of the facilities at Allambe Memorial
Park at Nerang on the Gold Coast has also been planned. The
developments will include construction of a new chapel and the
refurbishment of the office. The design will be distinct from other
crematoria in the South East Qld market, with construction
utilising a modern look and feel whilst at the same time providing
that “airy” Gold Coast design. Construction is expected to
Photos from the official opening of Albany Creek Memorial Park’s
‘Bridgeman Lounge’
)
commence in October and be completed by March 2006.
Involve 9
A Unique Perspective
It is not uncommon for a funeral director to stay with a company
The first year was
for many years, even a lifetime. Whilst like any industry people do
spent learning
move to different companies, it is unusual to come across a
everything about what
funeral director who has worked in 4 states. West Australian
we do. I worked on
General Manager Andrew Hogan brings a unique perspective to
after hours transfers;
his role having already worked for the company in South
as an assistant funeral
Australia, Victoria and Queensland. That has all come about after
director; spent a good
his original career was in the church. Part 1 of his story leads up
deal of time in the
to his move to Queensland.
mortuary; arranging
and conducting
Four tours of duty…a reflection on my experience as a
funeral director and manager
funerals. Then I also
started to understand
My connection with Perth began when I was in the seminary
the golden rule of PR
studying for the priesthood. At the time, the WA church was
and networking in this
sending its student priests to Adelaide following the closure of
business – ‘it’s better
the local seminary. Consequently I made a lot of friends with
to know a funeral
fellow students from all over the state and frequently visited them
director and not need
and their families over the summer break. In fact, I drove the
one, than to need one
Nullabour plain 12 times in the 7 years while I was studying.
and not know one’.
Back in the late 1980’s I again found myself in Perth completing
some post graduate studies and have always loved Perth as a
city and a place to live.
I found myself managing
West Austrlalian General Manager,
Andrew Hogan
the Blackwell Locations at
Payneham and Paradise in the North Eastern suburbs of
When I first started dating my wife Michelle we were kidding
Adelaide. My friends thought it was a riot that an ex Priest found
around one evening about the people we wouldn’t marry.
himself managing a funeral home in Paradise. Maybe that’s proof
Michelle told me that there were only 2 people in the world she
that God does have a sense of humour!
would never marry, farmers and funeral directors. I had not long
resigned from the Priesthood in the Catholic Church and at the
time was employed as a consultant for a group called Health
development Australia. As a psychologist I was working with
organisations developing wellness programs for stressed out
directors, executives and staff to help them achieve better work
life balance.
I was fortunate to work with some fantastic people back then
who taught me what it meant to be a funeral director. It was
when SCIA acquired Blackwell Funerals in 1994 that almost
overnight; a world of opportunity was opened up. I met and
worked with the current Victorian General Manager John Fowler,
who had come over from Melbourne to manage the South
Australian operations. John’s influence, ability and willingness to
When I saw an ad in the employment section for funeral staff at
pass on what he knew about managing a funeral business were
Blackwell Funerals in Adelaide I was immediately excited by the
a great inspiration.
prospect. I was looking for a ministerial role with people, one that
would allow me to maintain the focus on doing some of the
things I was doing as a Priest. So I cut the job ad out and very
nervously showed it to Michelle.
Then my journey around the country began with the opportunity
opening to go to Melbourne where I spent 3 1/2 years. There I
was appointed Regional Manager (RM) of the Mulqueen
Funerals, Simplicity Funerals and Northern Le Pine Funerals
“You remember what I said about Funeral Directors, don’t you,”
Locations. Melbourne was a great place to cut my teeth as an
she said (I still had not told her that my families background was
RM. John and the management team were an experienced
thoroughly rural...farmers in a place called Burra in the North of
group and I learnt a lot from all of them. They were committed
SA). But then she said “I think you should apply. I think you will
and polished and took great pride in everything they did. I met
make a great funeral Director – I’d be disappointed if you didn’t.”
Terry Mulqueen back then who challenged every assumption I
And so began a journey that has lasted for nearly 12 years. I
had ever made about managing a funeral business and the
don’t think a day has gone by throughout that time that despite
people in it. He influenced me greatly and was a good friend.
the pressures involved in the life of a funeral director; I always
take something positive away at the end.
10)
The sunshine was beckoning however and an opportunity arose
to go to Queensland.
(continued next issue)
The Budget
When the Federal Treasurer releases the budget each year,
there is much time spent discussing the implications with
the community including local businesses.
Funeral Director Barry Cantrill from Somerville Funerals at
Nerang in Queensland had the opportunity represent the
funeral home; meeting Treasurer Peter Costello at a dinner
arranged in the Gold Coast Convention Centre.
Somerville Funerals Barry Canrtrill with Federal Treasurer
Peter Costello
Pride of Workmanship
Fred Ferrier from Twin Towns Funerals at Tweed Heads in
northern NSW was recently awarded the ‘Pride of Workmanship’
award by Burleigh Heads Rotary Club at a presentation evening
attended by local businesses. Fred was nominated for his
continuous commitment and passion to his role as a funeral
director by Kate Saunders, Location Manager for Simplicity
Funerals at Miami in Queensland. Kate says, “He eats, breathes
Fred Ferrier receiving his award
and sleeps for the job; is never grumpy and is always caring.”
Working Bee
A Good Sport
Taking pride in maintaining the grounds, the photo below shows
Allan Maidment from
a group of staff who attended a working bee in August at
Simplicity Funerals at
George Hartnett Funerals in Holland Park, Queensland.
Woy Woy on the NSW
Central Coast is not
only known
affectionately as the
local mayor of the
Central Coast
Peninsula, he is also
recognised by his local community as being a ‘good sport’ with
long and dedicated commitments to Woy Woy Cricket Club,
Umina Soccer Club and Umina Bowling Club
Over the last ten years, Allan has backed up his sponsorships
(as pictured) with participation and has projected a clear image
of a caring community minded local.
Paul Davison
Community Relations Advisor, Simplicity Funerals, NSW
)
(left to right) Tony Mitchell, Brisbane Traditional Funerals Regional
Manager Mark Carey, Ken Flavelle, Paul Benseman, and Howard Baker
Involve 11
A True Character
On July 27, InvoCare’s Brisbane funeral homes lost
John told me that day that his nickname was the ‘old silver fox’ –
one of their colleagues, John Molloy was a true
he reckoned he was pretty crafty, and knew there was more than
character of the industry that had an impact on
one way to skin a cat. You see, John had a wealth of experience in
all those who met him. Andrew Hogan, the WA
the funeral industry. He started as a funeral director with George
General Manager returned to Brisbane where he
Hartnett Funerals back in 1986 when they were located in Stanley
had served as Queensland General Manager, to
Street, South Brisbane. His career spanned what is probably the
deliver a Eulogy at the Corpus Christi Catholic
most significant and influential 20 years in funeral service in
Church in Nundah. Following is an extract.
Australia, with enormous change and innovation in what funeral
directors do and the way families perceive the service we provide.
I first met John in October 2000. I had not long arrived in
Brisbane and Paul Collins, the General Manager at the time,
John said to me once – “Andrew, I don’t know about these lady
wanted me to meet this bloke who he described as “one of the
funeral directors, but I guess they are here to stay so maybe I’d
great characters of the funeral industry”. At the time, both Paul and
better help ‘em along”. John took a lead role in helping to train and
I felt strongly that we needed some more experience in the team.
develop a lot of the White Lady Funeral staff, and other female
There had been a lot of changes and we had to be pretty
funeral directors who are here today.
persuasive to get John to agree to come back to work. I remember
Steven Covey, a famous author, once said that “the key to living a
when I walked upstairs to announce to all the crew that John was
good life is to live, to love, to learn and to leave a legacy.”
coming back – there were broad smiles all round, and a round of
applause too. It was great to have John back!!!
For us, John’s colleagues and fellow funeral directors, the people
who knew and loved him, his legacy is the gift of his presence, his
Anyway, I wrote John a card, saying how much I enjoyed meeting
leadership, his ability to take control and walk a family through one
him and that I was looking forward to working with him. The first
of the most painful things imaginable and offer them dignity, care
thing he said to me was “you spelt my bloody name wrong!” And
and love. His direct honesty; his warm heart and goodness; his
then he smiled and laughed as only John could. “I’m only having a
strong character; John has left us that legacy and I will take that
lend of you.”
legacy with me for the rest of my life too.
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.
Simplicity – Buranda, QLD
Purslowe Funerals – North Perth, WA
The family is very appreciative of the manner in which the
funeral was arranged, prepared for and conducted. From the
initial meeting with John, who handled matters with great
Dear Sandy,
patience and kindness, to telephone dealings with Janice, at
The service you conducted for Dad was really lovely and
your Victoria Park office, who was pleasant and informative, to
simple, just as he had wanted. We have received many
Andrew and Gavan who handled the transport arrangements
comments from family and friends who attended who thought
politely and patiently, to the conduct of the funeral itself which
the service was beautiful and reflection of Dad.
was with quiet dignity. We should include our thanks to those
Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for providing a fitting
farewell for Dad, and for showing so much compassion and
sincerity when organising arrangements with my family. I know
you went beyond the normal requirements to assist us and I
who worked behind the scenes who prepared for the occasion.
Their excellent efforts brought comfort where it was needed.
John’s hand in all these matters is to be commended. Thank
you all for your kindness.
am truly thankful for all that have done.I have no hesitation in
recommending your services to others who may loose a loved
Pinegrove Memorial Park – Minchinbury, NSW
one in the future. When I first began making enquiries after Dad
was diagnosed with leukaemia, I was treated as ‘just another
caller’ by all funeral homes with the exception of Simplicity
“Friendship for a fleeting moment without judgement can cover
lots of stumbling blocks”
Funerals. It was your genuine warmth, concern and willingness
Dear Lee,
to assist me that led to me recommending you to my mother.
I had to collect my mother’s ashes from Pinegrove and you are
That caring attitude never faulted throughout our dealings and
the best person for being there and it was not til I scattered her
was evident in the service your provided for dad.
ashes under the weeping willow tree that I understood how
I wish you well in the future and again thank you for making this
very sad time somewhat easier for us.
12)
much easier you had made it for me. Thank you so very much
and I wish you and your family a very happy blessed life.
Business After Hours Community
Education
Four years ago Simplicity Funerals at Carnegie
in Melbourne approached Care Training
Simon Davidson
Australia, to offer their services to them in a
community education program. Regional Manager Simon
Davidson and Funeral Director Kathryn Hodges are particularly
committed to opening up the funeral industry to help dispel the
myths and misconceptions of their profession. Care training
The team from Allen Matthews and Bruce Maurer Funerals
Australia is an established organisation that provides all levels of
aged care nursing and palliative care training. Over the years
Simon and Kathryn have conducted presentations and distributed
Allen Matthews Funerals at North Ryde and Bruce Maurer Funerals
handouts to over 500 students.
at Crows Nest – both Guardian Funeral providers in Sydney;
recently co-hosted the Chatswood Chamber of Commerce ‘
This is an ongoing commitment which started from one lecturer
Business After Hours’ function.
bringing her class into Carnegie, to the point where all lecturers
make the presentation a part of their course structure. It has
The highly successful evening was held at Allen Matthews with
proven to be a very beneficial project; from the students
approximately 60 attendees.
perspective they are being educated and having questions
Guests were comfortably warmed in the expansive garage area;
answered by professionals; while Simplicity Funerals are seen to
wined and dined and taken on a tour of the funeral home and
be doing more for the community than just conducting funerals.
Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium.
Simon says, “When it started we had no idea the impact and
enormity of it. This has been a great community service and both
Gabby Toner, Location Manager from Allen Matthews, Cremorne,
personal and professional growth for both Kathryn and myself.”
Dennis Byron, Location Manager from Allen Matthews, North Ryde,
Peter Brock, Location Manager from Bruce Maurer Funerals and
Meanwhile Simplicity Funerals in Melbourne has expanded
Regional Manager, Joanne McGrath networked with the guests while
further with the recent opening of a new location at Frankston
the hardworking members of Shared Services Northern Operations
(as pictured below).
team assisted as food and wine hosts and tour operators.
Peter Brock gave an address as speaker on the role of a traditional
funeral home. Tom Vukelic (Operations Manager) and Anna Dobrincic
(Family Services Manager) from Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and
Crematorium together assisted by conducting tours of the crematorium.
The Chamber President commented in writing on the professionalism
and dedication of all concerned.
Peter Brock
Location Manager – Bruce Maurer Funerals, Crows Nest
Grief Support
Allen Matthews Funerals at North Ryde in Sydney along with
InvoCare itself are proud to be a sponsor of Grief Support Inc., a
telephone support service operated by trained volunteers. These
volunteers have all undergone intensive training to understand
the nature of loss, grief and bereavement in order to be able to
provide empathetic support. They provide a listening ear for
those wishing to talk about the loss they have suffered and all
calls are confidential and anonymous.
from the Librarian, Volunteer Representative, Professional
Advisor and Fund Raising Committee. The Public Officer gave a
presentation about respecting and appreciating our differences
in the multicultural world. At the conclusion of the meeting lunch
was served in the adjoining hall.
Grief Support has also recently updated their brochure which
introduces the service, provides some information on grief and
has a section calling for volunteers. We recognise the valuable
service they provide to the community and have their brochures
available for anyone who is interested.
I was invited to attend Grief Support’s recent Annual General
Dennis Byron
Wahroonga where various reports were read including those
Location Manager – Allen Matthews, North Ryde
)
Meeting, which was held at the Fox Valley Community Centre,
Involve 13
A Special Thank You
Gunter Chrismann is a well respected artist whose career has
spanned more than forty years since he arrived in Sydney, from
Berlin, in 1959. Though his work has moved through a number
of different “phases”, Christmann has maintained a fascination
with the world around him – he feeds off contemporary life.
Christmann first came to prominence during the 1960s,
exhibiting European inspired hard edged abstraction.
Christmann’s paintings have featured in important exhibitions in
Australia and overseas and he was chosen to represent Australia
at the 1971 Sao Paulo Biennial. The National Gallery of Australia
has a larger collection of works by Gunter Christmann than any
other contemporary Australian artist.
Deanna Qahoush from Simplicity Funerals at Paddington in
Sydney recently arranged the funeral for his wife Jenny who he
said had influenced a lot of his work. Gunter commented that
after the arrangements for the service had been made that things
had been made easier by Deanna than he thought they may be.
Deanna Qahoush with the painting presented to her
by Gunter Chrismann
The funeral was a very small and intimate service with only a few
people in attendance.
After the service Gunter made a few calls to Deanna to thank her
and to say everything was perfect and he also dropped in for a
visit and a cup of tea. He returned again to ask about Jenny’s
That same afternoon Gunter returned with a gift for Deanna – a
painting. He explained that he called the painting “Austeug” in
English, “The Ascension”. It is basically a picture of two people
standing on the ground watching a third person rising to the sun.
ashes, so Deanna promptly arranged for an appointment with the
crematorium so they could be picked up. Deanna says, “I made
Gunter told Deanna that Jenny had a great influence on this
Gunter and myself a cup of tea and I asked if he had any photos
painting in particular. Deanna says, “I really felt so honored and
of his work. Gunter then said he didn’t want to tell me, he
special to have received such a special gift. It really makes my job
wanted it to be a surprise but he had been painting something
worth while and gives me great job satisfaction to know that I have
for me to give me as a gift.”
made a family happy and made Jenny’s send off a special one.”
Seniors Expo
between 10am and 4pm, discussing the benefits of prepaid
funerals and supplying general information about funerals to a
steady stream of retirees. Over the course of the day they
Patricia Andia and Terry Smith
of David Lloyd Funerals,
Newcastle recently attended
the annual Newcastle
Retirement, Planning and
Seniors Expo. The Expo
handed out over 250 Personal Information Guides (for people to
record their details to assist in pre-arranging a funeral) and the All
You Need To Know About Funerals booklet – both receiving a
favourable response. They also
handed out lolly bags which soon
disappeared.
organised by Helen Duncan Promotions in
conjunction with the Post Group of
The day was a great success for
Newspapers was held for the first time at
David Lloyd Funerals, giving
West Leagues Club, Lambton.
maximum exposure to several
thousand people in a relatively short
Prior to the event there was an extensive
publicity campaign through both the press
and television, in which David Lloyds
Funerals promoted prepaid funerals and
the Guardian Plan. Patricia and Terry were
kept busy through the Expo, held
14 )
space of time. Aside from the
information about funerals, it was an
opportunity to promote the fact that
they now have locations at Beresfield
and Belmont as well as Adamstown.
Local History
Warwick Hansen is the company’s Regional Manager for Country
considerable influx from
NSW funeral homes. A Master Funeral Director and actively
Sydney families who
involved in the Australian Funeral Directors Association, Warwick
commute daily. The
has been closely associated with the Wollongong area in
Wollongong and Shellharbour
particular for many years through Hansen & Cole Funerals
Municipalities have grown
locations. Following is Warwick’s account of Hansen & Cole’s
considerably; they now have
history and its importance in the local areas in which is operates.
a combined population of
approximately 275,000.
Arthur Cole moved from Molong N.S.W. to Wollongong in the
It has gown to be arguably
mid 1930’s with his wife & six children, some of whom worked in
the most multi-cultural
a funeral business which was based in Crown Street,
community in Australia with
Wollongong. Arthur also built a location at Bulli, and between
every known nation group
them they performed around 180 funerals per year when I
represented. During the
bought him out in 1973.
1970’s & into the 80’s the
district was very dependent
Originally, our family were involved with Lakeside Memorial Park
at Dapto which began operations in 1963 – the first burial took
Warwick Hansen
on the steel industry, but
today the district has become
place in January, 1964. The progression into funeral homes was
a good strategic move, as Lakeside in the early days was only a
a very diverse industrial & commercial entity with low
lawn cemetery. Following the purchase of Arthur Cole’s business
unemployment & good living standards.
we extended into prepaid funeral plans which significantly grew
the business to the point where in 1994 when the business was
sold to Service Corporation International we were conducting
over 600 funerals a year.
Hansen & Cole Funerals have always had a strong relationship
with particularly the Italian, Greek, Serbian, Macedonian, Polish &
Croatian communities which is why most of these communities
have established burial sections at Lakeside Memorial Park.
A Crematorium was built at Lakeside and opened in August
1980. The Crypts of the Sacred Heart were established at
Lakeside in 1993, further growing the business and laying the
foundation for what it is today.
Hansen & Cole Funerals have always had a
strong relationship with particularly the Italian,
Greek, Serbian, Macedonian, Polish & Croatian
communities which is why most of these
communities have established burial sections
at Lakeside Memorial Park.
In 1973 Hansen & Cole Funerals bought the old A.G.A. Club
Germania and redeveloped it into one of the best funeral homes
My son Matt joined the business in 1992 starting from the
in Australia. The location is often chosen for funerals exceeding
ground up after achieving a business degree in marketing at
300 people & handles them comfortably. Today it is our Illawarra
Charles Sturt University Bathurst. Today he is working as a
headquarters for the Hansen & Cole business.
Regional Manager in Queensland for the Company running
During the early 1980’s the Bulli premises were sold, as the
Simplicity Funerals.
location was an extremely difficult one to operate from. In 1998
Today Hansen & Cole Funerals is proud of its continued close
Hansen & Cole opened a new location at Bulli – to look after the
association with the people of Wollongong. We are now
northern suburbs families of Wollongong of which there has been
benefiting further from becoming a Guardian Funeral provider.
)
Involve 15
A daunting morning has its rewards
Working in the funeral industry tends to provoke a sense of
We can be guilty of thinking it will be hard
curiosity amongst most people. Initial reactions can sometimes
to talk to people, that they are not
be cautious, but very often it leads to further intrigue. It is
interested or that they are only there
something which is particularly obvious when as a funeral
because they have to be. The result of
director you are invited to make a speech in front of 65 aged
this particular day was the planning for a
citizens at a Probus Club.
future outing to visit the funeral home,
The agenda for the meeting was to do with business information
including a bus trip and morning tea. The morning tea was a
highlight of the meeting with a rare feast of home made ‘whatevers’ of every description, and a yearned for cuppa’ … then,
before it was my turn as the guest speaker to step
requests to check on details of prepaid
funeral plans, several requests for
information to be posted out, topped off
with a vote of thanks for what appeared
to be a morbid topic that had ended
Trevor Harslett
up as fun, informative, self searching and
After starting with a description of floating free, seeing life from a
encouraging for planning ahead. We had laughter, thoughtfulness
distance without cares or worries (which was a description of a
and in some cases sad recollection; rather like a funeral service.
parachute jump) and a game of ‘Grandma went to market’ (a coordination game to explain how people react in grief), 65 aged
citizens became very involved. The 40 min. talk went for 1 hour
with a request for questions. We had discussed trends, current
costs aligned with other life experiences, such as weddings or
home maintenance, options and choices and funny incidents
Would I accept other guest spots at senior groups? Definitely!
People are interested; they do want to discuss all that is involved
in funerals and planning and they like us to be natural, up-front
and honest. I would encourage my peers to follow suit and
volunteer to address groups, and enjoy while you inform.
which can happen like retrieving articles accidentally dropped into
Trevor Harslett
the grave.
Location Manager – Blackwell Funerals, Torrensville
Offering Support
Tobin Brothers Funerals in Canberra has a long history of
Shire Councils, Medical Practitioners,
supporting the local community and particularly in supporting a
Aboriginal Health Workers, Cancer
greater awareness and understanding of coping with grief.
Support Groups, Social Workers and
A recent sponsorship of the Leukaemia foundation has allowed
Volunteers in the general community.
them to take that message globally.
Tobin Brothers Funerals in Canberra
also recently donated a large amount
Karen Sorensen, a former employee of
of books to the newly established
Tobin’s who was part of a
Bereavement section of the local
‘Bereavement Team’, has just delivered
Queanbeyan City Council, Library,
a paper at the 7th International
which was another QTY Bereavement
Conference on Grief and Bereavement
Project. The committee of professionals
in Contemporary Society at Kings
on the project team is aiming to set up a support system to those
College in London on behalf of the
in need of care across a whole range of areas associated with
Leukaemia Foundation. Karen is now
Death and Dying.
the Support Services Co-ordinator
Southern NSW and ACT for the
Christine Walters
Karen Sorensen
Leukaemia Foundation.
Karen Sorensen’s knowledge and work in this area of
bereavement was the reason she was accepted to deliver a
paper at the conference. Her ongoing work with the Leukaemia
Location Manager for Tobin Brothers three locations in Canberra,
Foundation allows her to share her knowledge amongst other
Christine Walters is working with Karen on the Queanbeyan,
professionals in all aspects of grief. Tobin Brothers Funerals
Tallaganda and Yarralumla (QTY) Bereavement Project which is
in Canberra recognised Karen’s previous work the company and
targeted at developing a community approach to bereaved
her ongoing involvement in bereavement by sponsoring her trip to
people. The project team includes Ministers, Health Professionals,
the conference in London.
16)
What happens next?
What happens when anyone dies
experiences, along with many
is a subject that has haunted
otherwise ordinary people who
humanity forever, and still does. Is
have had them.
there any kind of continuing
Olivia Newton-John tells about
existence, thus life – or even only
talking to her mother’s dead body
consciousness – of some kind after
and asking for a sign that she
someone dies? There are no
was still around somehow. “I felt
definitive answers, even if almost all
an incredible presence in the
religions teach and preach that
room,” she says, “an energy I’d
there is indeed life after death.
never felt before.” Then she
asked for the prearranged signal
Now there are two Australian
and some candles in the room
books; ‘Death – The Ultimate
flickered, while at the same time
Orgasm?’ and ‘The Dying
another, large candle in another
Experience and Learning How
to Live’ – telling stories of personal experiences with such
things as Near-Death Experiences, Out-of-Body Experiences,
After-Death Communications, and many more such supernatural
room where the rest of her family were sitting simply shattered,
reassuring Olivia that her mother was all right and still
somehow “alive”.
or paranormal subjects. The author is West-Indian-born Australian
Cathy Freeman talks about how her dead sister stood beside her
Mike Agostini, once famous worldwide for his sprinting prowess
whenever she had difficult things to deal with. “If I ever felt like giving
and known locally also as a leading sports journalist and
up, I would feel her right beside me saying, ‘Cut it out, Cathy’.”
TV commentator.
Kylie Minogue talks about her belief in reincarnation and an
Death and more so what happens afterwards, has now become a
encounter with her former lover Michael Hutchence after his death
subject so open that it is featured in all media, especially TV
(“that let me know Michael was still around, like he’d come
where weekly prime-time shows such as Afterlife (Nine network)
to say hello).
and Medium (Ten network) are drawing solid audiences.
“Your books will give a lot of comfort to many people,” Sister
Stories are told in these books about prominent and popular
Australians including Betty Cuthbert, Dawn Fraser, Marjorie
Jackson, Kylie Minogue, Olivia Newton-John, Jeanne Little,
Clare Nolan, joint CEO of the Sisters of Mercy Outreach program
at Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital, told the author even though
they are not in any way either religious or cultist.
Justice Marcus Einfeld, the late Dr Victor Chang, Princess Mary
The books are available through bookshops of by visiting the
Donaldson and Cathy Freeman, all of whom have had such
website at www.deathbook.com.au
When Pets Die
‘When Pets Die – it’s alright to grieve’,
Our pets love us unconditionally, and when they die, there can
is Queensland General Manager of
be a huge gap in our lives – the degree of grief can take us by
Funerals and respected author Doris
surprise. In the book Doris talks about the loss of a pet being
Zagdanski’s latest book. The book has
a ‘disenfranchised grief’, because the loss of a pet is often
been written to help us accept that the
not recognised and as a consequence’ feelings are denied
grief we feel when we lose a pet is very
or suppressed’.
real. In this sensitively written book
As one of Australia’s most
with the grief and she explains that it
Doris Zagdanski
can be similar to the depth of grief one
experiences when one loses a (human) loved one.
experienced and best-known
authors on the subject of
understanding grief, Doris
provides sympathy and
Many of us share our lives with pets, and for those living on their
understanding. Above all, she
own, or relying on companion animals for seeing or hearing, the
comforts. Retailing for $16.95,
death of a pet can result in intense grief. And when a child loses
for anyone who has lost a pet
a pet it can be even more difficult to explain – not just the
this is a book worth reading and
“disappearance” of the pet, but also the meaning of death.
sharing with family and friends.
)
Doris gives guidance on how to deal
Involve 17
Survey Comments
The most important measure of the service provided to client
Very pleased with the driver’s ready acceptance of varied
families of InvoCare’s funeral homes, cemeteries and crematoria
requests regarding number of passengers to and from funeral.
is an assessment from those clients as to whether they would
Extremely considerate of physical comfort and emotional
recommend them to others. A survey is delivered to each of the
well-being.
Simplicity Funerals – Liverpool, NSW
families we service, from which we gather valuable information on
our service levels.
Our wishes for the funeral were very simple, the funeral staff were
One of the key indicators shows that according to the latest
very understanding and allowed everything we asked and
results, 97% would recommend our services.
followed all instructions. It was a beautiful funeral thanks to them.
Kevin Geaghan Funerals – Ballina, NSW
The survey also asks for comments or suggestions about the
funeral or memorial arrangements and how the service can be
improved. Following is a sample from these responses.
Janice did a wonderful job. She went to extraordinary lengths to
get things done and ensure that the whole affair was as close to
The service I received involving all aspects of my dearly loved
perfect as possible. Thank you.
mother’s funeral was very professional. I couldn’t have asked for
White Lady Funerals – Caulfield, VIC
more caring or understanding from anyone. Thank you.
Newcastle Memorial Park – Beresfield, NSW
We found the sympathetic yet positive approach of the staff very
My compliments re the beautiful Mother’s Day service. I hope you
helpful in guiding us through the necessary decisions at a time
continue with this service each year.
when our thinking processes were not altogether clear.
White Lady Funerals – Plympton, SA
Mt Thompson Memorial Gardens – Holland Park, QLD
We found your staff member had a very good balance of
compassion and humour. Much appreciated in the
circumstances. Thank you.
Albany Creek Memorial Park – Bridgeman Downs, QLD
Everyone was very impressed, some people said it gave them
ideas of having their loved one’s funerals at your funeral home.
Well done!
Purslowe Funerals – Fremantle, WA
Involved with the
Community
Jan Thompson and Paul Davison from Simplicity Funerals
recently held an in-service community talk for the staff at Nareen
Gardens Aged Care Facility Bateau Bay on the Central Coast.
“Nareen” is an Aboriginal word meaning “peaceful place” and the
seminar was certainly held in a peaceful atmosphere, in the very
appealing surroundings of the residents communal lounge area.
The learning plan for education and staff development for the
Nareen Staff is in the care of complex Chaplain Heather
Coombes. Heather was a wonderful host who extended her
thanks to the “Simplicity Grief Team” for delivering training on
Communicating with Grieving People and Grief Awareness.
The staff also displayed their appreciation through comments in
their evaluations. It is always a wonderful feeling and indeed a
privilege to create a rapport with our local clergy, which is further
enhanced when we facilitate in care support services to our local
care givers.
Paul Davison
Community Relations Advisor – Simplicity Funerals, NSW
18)
Paul Davison, Nareen Gardens Chaplain – Heather Coombes
and Jan Thompson
Kenyon Completes Unprecedented
Asian Tsunami Response
When the Asian Tsunami inundated nearly a dozen Indian Ocean
Now eight months after the Tsunami, Kenyon has rotated in and
countries in December, Kenyon International Emergency
out of Thailand more than 300 disaster management staff, shipped
Services, Inc. responded en masse. InvoCare staff was among
in more than 30 tons of supplies, and advised governments from
those who worked for Kenyon during this operation.
Australia to Norway on the process of disaster recovery.
Kenyon is the world’s leading commercial disaster response
Of the nearly 5000 people killed in the disaster, a majority were
company headquartered in Houston, with offices in London,
foreign nationals. While scores are still unidentified, each new
Singapore and Sydney. Within 36 hours of receiving the call for
day brings the positive identification of someone’s loved one and
help by the Australian Government, Kenyon arrived in Phuket,
their return home. Kenyon is proud of its pivotal role in
Thailand with mortuary supplies, disaster management experts
supporting so many countries in this unprecedented disaster.
and human identification computer systems.
Catastrophes are nothing new to Kenyon. Over its 75 year
history, Kenyon disaster experts have responded to more than
300 incidents from aviation crashes and maritime disasters to
terrorist attacks.
Most notably, Kenyon was quickly deployed to New York City
following the 9/11 attacks, and remained there for 18 months
helping New York City officials identify those who had died.
The Australian Government wanted Kenyon’s assistance in
Kenyon responders have also repatriated persons killed in the
locating Australians who may have been visiting Thailand and
PANTONE: 199
were likely killed when the tsunami hit.
Within a 872
few days,
PANTONE:
UN Head quarters bombing in Baghdad, Iraq.
Australia realised it could further help the Thai Government deal
with the rising death toll and destruction. Kenyon was then
requested to support the hundreds of disaster victim
identification officers from many of the 37 countries who lost
citizens in the disaster. Australia previously relied on Kenyon’s
rapid response following the terrorist bombing of the nightclub in
Bali, Indonesia a few years ago.
With its more than 1000 team-members located around the
world, Kenyon can mobilise to any disaster in a matter of hours.
Its reputation for speed, deployment efficiency and the ability to
sustain on-scene for extended periods of time is universal. For
the many families of those who died in the tsunami, the return of
their loved ones is in large measure due to Kenyon’s involvement
in Thailand.
Fun Run?
If you ever want 36 hours of pain in every joint and muscle below
the hip, then the ‘City To Surf’ is for you. Held on the second
Sunday in August, over 60,000 people walk or run a steep 14km
from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach.
InvoCare sent a team attired in the Guardian Funerals signage,
which received several comments from other participants.
Fortunately all our participants made it to the other end which,
whilst bad for business was a mighty fine achievement. Damien
Fitzpatrick (Commercial Manager) made it quickest in about 68
minutes, closely followed by Paul Steele (Management
Accountant). They both had to run, as they had cold beer waiting
in their bags at the finish line and needed to get there before the
Damien Fitzpatrick, Paul Steele, Gael Ellis, Coreen Ooi, Vicki
Hancock, Amanda Walshaw, Olwyn Lines, Nellie Hage.
beer went warm. The girls, being more sensible, walked, which
takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Gael Ellis (National Fund
All the participants made it to work on Monday, but only so they
Administration Manager) did plan to stop in at several pubs on
could swap stories about who was the sorest. After several hours
the way, but like most Kiwis is banned from every licensed
of complaining loudly to anyone who’d listen, they all agreed to
premise in the eastern suburbs.
do it again in 2006.
)
Involve 19
The last word
Australian Funeral Directors Association, Stephen Parry has just
Personalised
Service
taken up his new role as a Senator in the Federal Parliament,
More so than ever before, funeral arrangers assist families in
representing the Tasmanian Liberals. He was the last of the new
personalising a funeral service to in some way reflect the life of the
Senators to deliver a maiden speech in front of an audience that
individual. It may be a choice of music, a use of significant flowers, a
included many representatives from the funeral industry.
display of memorabilia or in some cases something more obvious.
Former National Councillor, President and life member of the
He earned the best laugh of the day by telling his new colleagues,
Senators present, that this is the largest gathering of embalmers
A splash of colour
and practising funeral directors ever to witness live the
Geoff Farley was the owner of Wollongong’s Balloons N Everything
proceedings of the Senate.” He went on to say, “I also wish to
business, so when it came this funeral, after he lost a battle with
assure all those gathered that no professional interest from the
cancer, Hansen & Cole Funerals at Kembla Grange south of
gallery is apparent.”
Sydney, followed his wishes to make the service colourful and with
“I trust that it is not of concern to you, Mr President or the
•••
no dark mourning outfits. The funeral home chapel was filled with
colourful balloons and decorations.
In a recent study, the fear of public speaking rated higher than the
fear of spiders, snakes and death. This means that if we were at a
funeral, we would rather be in the coffin than giving the eulogy.
•••
Monty Python’s classic song ‘Always look on the bright side of life’
is enjoying a revival care of the Tony Award winning musical –
‘Spamalot’, based on ‘Holy Grail The Movie’. The song continues
to be amongst the most requested at funerals, particularly in the
UK where the following words always bring a smile to people’s
faces. “Life’s a laugh and death’s a joke it’s true. You’ll see it’s all a
show, keep ‘em laughing as you go. Just remember that the last
laugh is on you!”
•••
And the piper player
Joke
A man goes to see Mel Gibson’s movie, The Passion of Christ,
and is inspired to take his family to Israel to see the places where
Jesus lived and died.
a service for the local fire chief. Location Manager John Arnfield
led the coffin in playing his pipe.
While on holiday his mother-in-law dies. A funeral director explains
they can ship the body home to Sydney at a cost of $10,000 or
the mother-in-law could be buried in Israel for $500.
The man answers: “We’ll ship her home.”
The funeral director asks: “Are you sure? That’s an awfully big
expense and we can do a very nice burial here.”
The man says: “Look, 2000 years ago they buried a guy here and
three days later he rose from the dead. I just can’t take that chance.”
•••
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20)
George Hartnett Funerals at Redcliffe in Queensland recently held