What happens to handles and other fittings on the coffin?

Due to EPA considerations, the handles and fittings are removed and discarded.

Can I get the handles and fixings back?

Yes. You should inform your funeral director, who will make your wishes clear before the day of the cremation.

What about precious and other metals?

The temperature which a modern cremator operates is between 800 and 1000C. Metals are destroyed and have no salvage value. Any metallic material resulting from a cremation is disposed of in accordance with the cremation act.

Can relatives witness the committal of the coffin into the cremator?

Yes. You should inform your funeral director who will make the necessary arrangements.

How can I be assured that I receive the correct ashes?

There is strict protocol in place throughout the cremation process. Each cremation chamber will only accept one coffin. All remains are kept separate at all times.

What happens to the ashes after cremation?

Ashes are placed in an urn, labelled and cared for in a secure area until we receive instructions from the applicant of the cremation.

Is it possible to divide the ashes?

Yes. Please notify your Funeral Director or the Norwood Park Office of your wishes.

When can the ashes be collected?

The ashes can be collected 48 hours after cremation. Please note that 24 hours’ notice is required before collection.

How long are the ashes held for at the crematorium?

Norwood Park cares for the ashes up to twelve months. After this time, a fee may be charged per year the ashes remain in our care.

Do I need to purchase an urn?

No. The ashes are provided in a durable urn. However, it is possible to purchase an urn, please see catalogue on our website.

Can the ashes be posted?

Yes, the ashes can be posted within Australia. Please call our office to confirm cost. Ashes cannot be posted overseas.

Can the ashes be scattered on Norwood Park grounds?

Yes, ashes can be scattered in the Sir Joseph Banks garden. Please call our office to make arrangements.

Do I need to use a Funeral Director?

The best advice would be yes. Funeral Directors provide the necessary documentation required for cremation, coffins, transportation of the deceased and arrangements for the service.

Where can the funeral service be held?

The service can take place at Norwood Park’s indoor or outdoor chapel. Alternatively there are many other venue options throughout Canberra. Your funeral director will go through the options with you.

Can I play media during the service?

Yes. Please visit our media page on our website or discuss with your funeral director.

Do you offer any catering or after service functions?

Yes, by booking a service in the Norwood Park Chapel, you are entitled to use the Centenary catering room. There is a minimum of 30 people with several catering packages available. Please note the Chapel times are linked to the catering room times. For more information on this, or how to book catering, please contact your Funeral Director.

What types of memorials are available?

Norwood Park has a variety of memorial gardens that provide both peace and tranquillity. Please refer to the memorial pages for more information.

Can a memorial be purchased before it is needed?

Yes, memorial reservations can be pre-paid. Please call our office for further information.

Can a pre-paid cremation be purchased?

Yes, please call our office on (02) 6241 3177 for enquiries.