Scattering ashes (cremated remains) at a meaningful location is a popular option for people wanting to pay respect to a loved one who has died.
We offer several gardens where ashes can be scattered. You can also place a memorial plaque to provide a permanent tribute.
A fee applies to scatter ashes. See the information on this page or talk to us for details.
You can also choose to keep a small amount of your loved one's remains in one of our keepsake urns, and scatter the remaining portion.
Common questions about scattering ashes
We've included some questions people often ask about scattering or handling ashes below. If you have a question not covered here, please call us on (02) 4227 7780 or talk to your funeral director for advice.
Ashes can be scattered in many places, and it's important to choose the right location.
Before you scatter ashes, you must get permission from whoever owns or manages the site you have in mind.
Wollongong Memorial Gardens
Our specially designed gardens provide an ideal location to scatter ashes and place a plaque as a lasting tribute to your loved one. You can also rest easy knowing that the site will be well cared for and available to visit for many generations.
See our Create a Memorial pages or call us on (02) 4227 7780 for more information.
Public places
Public places such as parks, beaches, rivers, bush land and even sporting fields can be popular locations for people to scatter ashes.
Many of these public places are owned or managed by local councils. Others may be owned or managed by the State Government. Your local council is a good starting point to find out who the owner of a public space is, and how to get permission to scatter ashes.
Keep in mind that if you do get permission to scatter ashes in a public place, you will most likely not be able to include a plaque or tribute at that location.
At home or on private property
You can scatter ashes at home or on private property, but there are a few things you should consider:
- If you're not the property owner, you will need to get permission of the owner first
- You or your family may not always live at that location
- It is possible that your current home or garden could be removed or replaced to make way for a new development in the future.
The placement of plaques, and placement or scattering of ashes at any of our locations must be done by Wollongong Memorial Gardens staff. However, family members can request to be present at these events.
Fees apply to scatter ashes. There is an additional cost for family members to be present during the placement or scattering of ashes. Current fees are shown below.
If you have a question, or want to be present when a plaque or ashes are placed, please call us on (02) 4227 7780.
Fees for scattering ashes
Fees for family attendance
If you want to take ashes overseas, you will need to make sure you have the correct paperwork and get permission from the country you are going to.
You should contact the consulate of the country the ashes will be taken to for advice about any local requirements you will need to meet.
If the ashes are of someone who has recently died, you can also ask your funeral director for advice.
You may be able to inter ashes at the existing grave of a family member or partner. This can be a meaningful way to keep loved ones together.
There are laws that apply, please call us on (02) 4227 7780 for more details.