A new environmentally friendly option for burials is now available in Perth's northern suburbs, enabling people to choose a bushland setting for gravesites with no headstones, no chemical embalming and coffins made of natural fibres.
Local Government Minister Tony Simpson said a popular trial at Fremantle Cemetery over the past four years had seen families choosing natural burials for their loved ones. The option was now open to families at Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park, near Padbury, at the base of the Quindalup Dunes.
Mr Simpson spoke at the official opening of the natural burials area.
"As the name suggests, natural burials offer a completely natural environment. There will be no traditional granite headstones and manicured grasslands here. The body is returned to nature in a biodegradable coffin. The remains can return to earth to decompose naturally," he said.
"The use of embalming chemicals is not allowed. You cannot place artificial tributes or commemorative items. Graves remain unmarked."
The Minister said the State Government and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board recognised the need for choice and to offer environmentally friendly options for burials.
"Over time, the burial land will be revegetated. The bushland will flourish to become a living and lasting natural commemoration," he said.
"As Minister for Local Government, with responsibility for cemeteries, it's my pleasure to open the new natural burial area at Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park."
Fact File
Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park, which received its first burial in 1978, is considered the most environmentally responsible cemetery in Australia
The park is a natural bushland cemetery planted only with native species. No monuments are permitted but each grave is marked by a flat bronze plaque
More information at http://www.mcb.wa.gov.au/OurCemeteries/Pinnaroo.aspx
Total of 28 natural burials at Fremantle since June 2010
Most families pre-purchase a plot alongside a grave so relatives can be buried side-by-side
Minister's office - 6552 6600
