UPDATE: The often overlooked and complex process of cremation has been brought to light with new insights from the ACT government’s crematorium in Gunghalin, Australia. As families face the heart-wrenching experience of losing a loved one, understanding what happens behind the scenes becomes crucial.
In a remarkable push to demystify the cremation process, workers at local crematoria are sharing their experiences. Mick Brennan, a crematorium operator, emphasizes the importance of providing families with a “positive experience during the worst time of their life.” He operates the cremator, which reaches temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring that the process is handled with care and respect.
Families are often surprised to learn that the cremation process varies based on body weight and sex, with specific calculations for different individuals. After the initial cremation phase, which takes about two to three hours, any remaining bone fragments are ground to form ashes. However, the process does not end there; metals from dental work and implants are extracted and recycled.
According to Michelle Dariol, crematorium manager, this metal collection yields around $45,000 annually, which is dedicated to funding free cremations for individuals under 18. “This needs to be with a community purpose,” Dariol stated, highlighting the human impact behind the financial aspect of cremation services.
Yet, not all stories end with closure. At the Norwood Park crematorium in Canberra, unclaimed ashes sit in a somber back room, a reminder of the lives that went unnoticed. Families sometimes fail to claim ashes, leaving behind untold stories of loneliness.
In a move towards modernization, Norwood Park is investing in advanced cremation technology, aiming to serve the community for the next 50 years. General manager Michael Bridges revealed plans for a new facility, stressing the importance of innovation in handling sensitive matters surrounding death.
The cremation landscape is also evolving with the introduction of “aquamation” or “alkaline hydrolysis.” This environmentally friendly alternative is gaining traction, especially among those concerned about pollution. The basic service costs approximately $5,995, while a full green funeral with water cremation can reach nearly $9,975. The method involves dissolving the body in a mixture of water and alkaline chemicals, leaving behind bones that are ground to dust.
As the conversation around death becomes more open, families are urged to consider all options available to them. The emotional weight of these decisions is profound, affecting countless individuals and families.
What’s Next: As the cremation industry adapts to new technologies and practices, families are encouraged to engage in discussions about their preferences. The growing interest in aquamation and the need for community-focused cremation practices reflect a significant shift in how society views death and the associated processes.
Stay tuned as we follow the developments in this evolving conversation around death and cremation, and how it impacts families across Australia and beyond.
