Scattering the Ashes – Answering Some Common Questions

by Tony Wilson Marketing Manager

One of the most complex decisions that a family has to make is choosing between burial and cremation when a loved one passes away. This decision is crucial as several arrangements will have to be made depending on this, and studies say that the concept of burial is now not too far from getting phased out. Funeral homes across the globe offer cremation services, and families also prefer it for several reasons.

The first reason is that the process is highly affordable and less time-consuming. Most importantly, it has no role in harming the environment, and this is something very clearly visible in burial services. Another robust reason people opt for cremation is the flexibility regarding the final resting place. Families have several funeral options, but the three most common are placing the ashes in a memorial urn, storing them at the crematory or scattering them in a particular place.

The last one is the most preferred, and it also happens to be the most emotional process, as you are finally saying 'goodbye' to the physical presence of the deceased. In this situation, funeral homes in Sydney can be very effective, as they have answers to some common questions regarding scattering the ashes that make the process easier and comforting.

How Do You Choose A Location For Scattering Ashes?

The answers to some widespread questions can be beneficial in deciding where to scatter the cremains of a beloved family member.

● What did they value the most

● What were they happiest doing

● Is there any particular place that meant a lot to them?

It is also essential to see the practical aspect of the process. For example - whether the location to scatter the ashes is easily accessible or not and how much time will it take to visit that location.

Based on all these assessments, you can choose one of the following locations to scatter the ashes of your loved one.

Some popular places to scatter the ashes include:

● A quiet park, wetlands or bushland area

● Near water – i.e. a beach, lake or river

● Your loved one's hometown

● Near another family member's burial place

● Your Own Backyard

● A tree planting or trenching burial site

What Permissions And Permits Are Required To Scatter The Ashes?

No permissions or permits are required to scatter the ashes in most parts of Australia. Even if there are some, the funeral director in Sydney will help you gain permission or a permit. There are some scenarios where some time will be invested to achieve these permits. This includes –

● Private properties not owned by any family member or a relative

● Commonwealth marine areas, as you will have to apply for a permit

A permit will be required to scatter the ashes in bushland or rainforest areas declared as commonwealth reserves. The funeral homes in Sydney have all the arrangements and contacts to ensure that these permits are obtained very quickly. Experts further recommend researching the areas shortlisted to scatter the access. This planning will help you preserve the memories and ensure that the event is not ruined due to some interference, legal actions or penalties.

How Do We Go About Scattering The Ashes?

Top-rated funeral homes in Sydney are beneficial in scattering the ashes, even if you have chosen the most convenient option of spreading them near your location or a nearby water channel. The process involves releasing the ashes from the urn or choosing a water-soluble container to float into the water while it contains the cremains of your beloved. The funeral director in Sydney will check the wind's direction and recommend you release the ashes downwards. The people witnessing the process will stand behind the wind to see the proceedings without any ashes blowing towards them.

Is It Possible To Split The Ashes Between Multiple Locations And Family Members?

According to the experts from funeral homes, it is not a bad idea to split the ashes in multiple containers for multiple family members to use their way. The funeral director in Sydney will help you choose smaller urns to keep small portions of ashes and distribute them to different family members.

What Is Done During The Scattering Ceremony?

The presence of your funeral director in Sydney is not mandatory, and funeral home experts have different ideas to give regarding this. You can say your final goodbye in multiple ways, like attending the scattering ceremony, reading poems or sharing memories of the deceased. In short, every funeral director in Sydney wants to say - just focus on what holds the most meaning for you and your family.