Dead cheap option boom
Cut-price cremations fuel big jump in demand across Geelong
CUT-PRICE services have driven a huge increase in the number of cremations being carried out across the Geelong region.
While burial numbers have plateaued, cremations have soared by more than 21 per cent over the past two years.
The introduction of a cheaper “not same day” cremation service in September 2016 is behind the rise, according to the Geelong Cemeteries Trust.
Overall, the number of services carried out by the Trust reached almost 2600 in 2017-18.
The region’s population growth — and an increasing proportion of elderly residents — have been cited as factors in services rising by 6.42 per cent over the year.
According to the trust’s annual report, the demand is expected to further surge in coming years.
“With an ageing population, it is expected there will be a relatively significant increase in the death rates at some time in the future,” the report said.
So just where will the region’s dearly departed be laid to rest?
The trust manages 19 sites across Geelong, the Surf Coast, Colac Otway and Queenscliff.
While Geelong Eastern Cemetery is almost at capacity, there are still large swathes of land available in the city’s east, north and south.
The trust’s two biggest hold- ings — Geelong Memorial Park in Armstrong Creek and Marcus Hill — are either under-utilised or still to be de- veloped. There is also substantial room for growth at Flinders Memorial Park in Lara.
Expansion is also planned outside Greater Geelong.
Two new sites, in Deans Marsh and Yaugher, are potentially coming online in 2018-19.
And an operational hub has been set up at Colac, with the trust exploring land options in the area.
“The population growth in the catchment and, in particular, the growth in the number of older persons, will drive increased demand for the trust’s GEELONG’S much-loved teddies and toys will get their annual health check-up at a special pop-up hospital this weekend. Children are invited to take their favourite cuddly companions to the Teddy Bear Hospital at Deakin University, where they will be looked over by student volunteers. The interactive event aims to promote healthy behaviours to kids and reduce their fear of hospital environments. The program also allows the doctors and allied health professionals of tomorrow the chance to improve their paediatric communication skills in a fun setting. All proceeds from the gold coin entry will be donated to the Geelong Hospital children’s ward. The Teddy Bear Hospital is open 10am3pm today at the Gallery on Level 2 of the Waterfront Campus. JEMMA RYAN services and for space,” the report noted
The trust recorded an operating surplus for the year of $1.22 million. Revenue increased across all categories, except cremation fees, which did not meet budget because of the large use of the cheaper not same day service.
A same day cremation service for an adult costs up to $1030, while a not same day cremation costs $620.
Health regulations allow a cremation to occur up to 48 hours later.