Natural Burials & Green Funerals on the Sunshine Coast

At Perry and Oster Funerals, we are committed to providing compassionate and environmentally conscious end-of-life services to the Sunshine Coast community. We understand the growing desire for funeral practices that honour both loved ones and the natural world. Our natural burial and green funeral options are designed to meet this need, adhering to Queensland’s laws and regulations.

Natural Burials on the Sunshine Coast

A natural burial allows human remains to decompose naturally, enriching the ecosystem. It avoids embalming and uses biodegradable coffins or shrouds. On the Sunshine Coast, Eumundi Cemetery offers a dedicated natural burial area in a peaceful, forested setting with native flora and fauna, providing a serene final resting place.

Key Feature 1.

Environmental Considerations

Natural burials promote ecological sustainability by limiting the use of chemicals and non-biodegradable materials. This approach supports the natural decomposition process and contributes to habitat preservation.

Key Feature 2.

Memorialisation

In keeping with the principles of natural burials, individual grave markers are typically not used. Instead, a communal memorial at the entrance of the natural burial area can include inscriptions of the deceased’s name and dates. Additionally, site locations are recorded using land surveys and small electronic markers (RFID technology) to ensure accurate records.

Key Feature 3.

Permitted Materials

Coffins, caskets, or shrouds used in natural burials must be made from natural, untreated materials such as sustainably sourced timber, wicker, or undyed cotton. Items like treated timbers, synthetic fabrics, metals, plastics, and synthetic clothing are not permitted to preserve the natural environment.

Green Funerals

Green funerals encompass a broader range of environmentally friendly practices, including natural burials. They focus on minimising the environmental impact of all aspects of the funeral process.

Element 1.

Non-Toxic Body Preparation

Avoiding embalming fluids and using natural methods for body preservation.

Element 2.

Biodegradable Materials

Utilising coffins or shrouds made from natural, sustainable materials.

Element 3.

Natural Burial Sites

Choosing burial sites that serve a conservation purpose and are not visually defined as traditional burial grounds.

Element 4.

Minimalist Memorialisation

Foregoing traditional grave markers in favour of natural elements or communal memorials.

Legal Considerations in Queensland

In Queensland, natural burials must comply with specific legal requirements. For instance, bodies must be prepared without chemical preservatives, and only biodegradable materials are permitted for burial. Additionally, natural burial sites are often located within designated areas of existing cemeteries, such as the natural burial area at Eumundi Cemetery.

Our Commitment

At Perry and Oster Funerals, we are dedicated to providing personalised and environmentally responsible funeral services. We work closely with families to honour their loved ones in a way that reflects their values and respects the natural world. Our team is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and that your wishes are fulfilled with dignity and care.

For more information about our natural burial and green funeral options on the Sunshine Coast, please contact us. We are here to support you during this time with compassion and professionalism.