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Resources

Navigating the topic of death and dying can be challenging. Whether you’re planning ahead or coping with the recent loss of a loved one, having some guidance can be invaluable. Here are some resources to help you begin this journey.

Helping yourself during difficult times

If you are grieving, you may not be putting your needs first. However, taking the time to look after yourself can make a big difference to your wellbeing. The following suggestions may help you to get through some difficult times:

  • Try to delay major decisions that cannot be reversed for 6–12 months, e.g. disposing of belongings
  • Keep a diary or journal
  • Create a memorial
  • Develop your own rituals, e.g. light a candle, listen to special music, make a special place to think
  • Allow yourself to express your thoughts and feelings privately, e.g. write a letter or a poem, draw or collect photos
  • Exercise to use pent-up energy, e.g. walking, swimming, cycling, gardening
  • Draw on your religious or spiritual beliefs and practices
  • Explore other people’s experiences through books, movies and articles
  • Do things you find relaxing and soothing, such as drawing, writing or listening to music
  • Try self-care, including meditation, relaxation and massage
  • To help with sleeplessness, exercise, limit alcohol and caffeine and try to maintain a routine, especially around bedtime

Funeral Planning

an elderly man and woman embracing each other standing in lawn beneath a large tree

Costs and how to compare prices

Costs will depend upon the memorial location within the cemetery and the type of memorial option chosen.

Hand gently placing rose petals on a grave during a cremation service in a memorial park

Deciding between burial and cremation

Many people have a preference, but if you’re not sure, this information may help guide you.

A group of four older adults enjoying a lively conversation over coffee in a cosy, brightly lit room.

5 things you need to know when planning your own end-of-life care

  • 17 July 2023

End-of-life planning involves making decisions about the type of medical treatment you would like to receive if you become seriously ill or incapacitated and unable to make your own decisions.

  • Planning
Father holding baby while walking through a tranquil memorial park, surrounded by greenery and peaceful surroundings

Choosing the right cemetery

Choosing the right cemetery is an extremely important decision as this determines where family, friends and future generations can remember and honour a life.

How to find the right funeral director for you

Planning for a loved one’s funeral can seem like a daunting task – but the right funeral director can make the process much simpler.

Attending a funeral

Funeral Etiquette

In the article, we explain some of the etiquette surrounding funerals and the grieving process

Flowers and their meaning – one for every occasion

We dive into some of the meanings of different flowers so you can give an extra special flower arrangement for your next occasion.

How to write a meaningful sympathy card message

Finding the right words to offer support, comfort and empathy can be a difficult and emotional experience. Different words may be needed at different times and occasions. A sympathy card message should be brief, offer support if you have the means to do so, and include something personal like a memory.

a group of people holding led candles in the air

What should you say to someone after a funeral?

It's important to balance conveying your sympathies without trivialising their grief.

Grief and support

Creating community and connection: Grieving Together Grief Retreat

  • 12 September 2024

The annual retreat intends to bring together people to gain greater knowledge and understanding of grief and how to process it.

  • Community Care & Wellbeing Program
  • Events
Three sisters embracing in a peaceful memorial park, surrounded by greenery and commemorative monuments, reflecting love and remembrance

10 ways to cope with your loved one's first anniversary of death

Small things like a song or a memory trip us up, and then there’s the big one—your loved one’s first anniversary of death.

5 reasons to try yoga or mindfulness to help you cope with grief

  • 30 March 2022

For Carmel Arnold an out-of-the-blue encounter with yoga as a teenager was all she needed to fuel a lifelong passion.