We are proud to announce the latest donations from our Surgical Metals Recycling Program, which continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of Western Australians.
After cremation, small quantities of surgical metals such as titanium from joint replacements and other medical implants may remain. Through our partnership with OrthoMetals, a Netherlands-based company certified to ISO:9001 and ISO:14001 standards, these metals are ethically recycled, ensuring they do not enter landfill or harm the environment. This is an opt-out program where families can request to have surgical metals returned rather than participate in the recycling program.
In 2024–25, the program recycled 5,255 kilograms of surgical metals, equivalent to approximately 18x44-gallon drums. Importantly, 100% of funds raised are donated to charity, reflecting our commitment to compassion and community care.
Since the donation program’s inception in 2013, this initiative has generated $3,437,016 for Western Australian charities. This year, the Board made the decision to expand the program’s recipients, inviting our staff to recommend charities they believe would benefit most from this support.
To honour our long-standing partnership, Cancer Council WA continues to receive 50% of total donations, allowing them to maintain a similar level of support they have received over the past 13 years. This week we donated $424,809.40 to them, which helps to continue their vital work without disruption in supporting Crawford and Milroy Lodges. These facilities ensure that regional WA cancer patients don’t have to worry about finding accommodation in Perth during their treatment, offering comfort and stability at a challenging time.
Thanks to the program’s growth and increased donation capacity, the Board was able to include two additional recipients this year. These organisations strongly align with the MCB’s values and commitment to supporting the Western Australian community:
Ronald McDonald House Charities WA – received $212,404.70
This donation will assist families with seriously ill children receiving treatment in Perth, ensuring they have a place to stay close to the Children’s Hospital. Children are tragically overrepresented in our cemeteries, and supporting families during these critical moments helps reduce the burden and improve outcomes.
Lifeline WA – received $212,404.70
These funds will be used to train approximately 25 crisis support volunteers, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to provide life-saving assistance to those reaching out in times of crisis. Beyond training, this donation will enable Lifeline WA to deliver essential wraparound support to their Crisis Supporters, including ongoing professional supervision and wellbeing services critical to sustaining their ability to respond effectively and compassionately. Our support aims to help prevent people from ending up in our cemeteries due to suicide, by ensuring timely and compassionate intervention.
Over the past two weeks, our CEO and representatives have met with each organisation to present these donations and learn more about their vital work. Each charity expressed heartfelt gratitude, and we were privileged to see firsthand the difference these contributions make.
"This program is a testament to the generosity of Western Australian families and the power of community. Even in life’s final chapter, we can create a legacy of compassion that touches thousands of lives. We are honoured to support these incredible organisations and the essential services they provide," said Kathlene Oliver, Chief Executive Officer of the MCB.
Even in life’s final chapter, this program ensures the story ends with generosity, a final act of charity that lives on in others.
Visit our Metals and Cremation page for more information.
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