Resources
Helpful Funeral Resources in Coffs Harbour
Our specially trained staff can arrange the funeral from start to finish.
The First 24 Hours
The first 24 hours after a death can be the most emotional and confusing. If your loved one passed in a nursing home, hospital or at home under medical supervision, there are processes in place to simplify the funeral process. Simply call us and we will take your loved one into our care, and organise all the medical paperwork.
If the person passed away suddenly, or at a location with no doctor association, a doctor or coroner may be required to verify and determine the cause of death. If a person has passed away unexpectedly, please call an ambulance. You can then let us know and we can guide you through the process.
If you’re unsure of what to do when someone dies, please call us for 24-hour assistance.
Coping with Grief
Grieving is a recovery process that may come in waves over a period of time. It’s normal and healthy to experience feelings of shock, intense emotions, depression, nostalgia, guilt and hostility.
In addition to staying physically well with a healthy diet, regular exercise and sleep, there are several lifestyle tips that may help you adjust after a major loss. You can stay close to friends and family, look forward to social activities, visit loved ones who live far away, take a relaxing holiday, journal about your feelings and talk to someone you trust.
It also helps to socialise with others in clubs and organisations, serve in volunteer groups that help others and collaborate in bereavement support groups. If at all possible, try to delay major life changes like moving during this difficult time.
Writing a Eulogy
When you are asked to give a eulogy, consider it a special privilege to honour your loved one’s memory and to offer a personal farewell. As you write, keep in mind your audience, tone, content, the input of others and organisation.
Be sure to practise your eulogy out loud and to ask for feedback from others who were close to the deceased.
Helpful Links
Please browse the following links to learn more about how you can heal during this emotional time.
Pre-Arrangements
Planning ahead for your funeral can spare your family the stress of difficult decisions and unplanned expenses. When you work with us, we can keep a record of your wishes and help set up a funeral bond without it affecting your pension entitlements (up to $15,000 as at 1/7/2023).
A funeral bond is a conservatively managed investment solely for the purpose of covering funeral expenses, and can be accessed quickly and easily when needed. You can either invest a lump sum or deposit regular or ad-hoc deposits from as little as $50. Any excess funds will be refunded to your next of kin.
Alternatively, many people pre-arrange without putting funds aside, and this can still be a big help to your family. We will guide you through the process, put a plan in place and give you an idea of costings.
If you have any questions please feel free to give us a call, as many have said that it has given them peace of mind just having a chat and learning a bit more about the process.
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