Some families are guided by tradition, faith or personal preference. There are also differences in cost to consider. If you’re planning a funeral for your loved one and you weren’t sure of their preference, we can help you make the choice that feels right.
Burial & cremation
Choosing between burial and cremation is a deeply personal decision. We’ve supported South Coast families for generations, offering honest guidance and practical help.
There’s no “right way” to say goodbye
Whether you’re planning a traditional burial service in the South Coast, a quiet cremation or something in between, we’ll help you create a farewell that reflects your loved one’s wishes and feels right for your family.
Burial vs cremation: What’s the difference?
Burial involves placing your loved one in a cemetery plot, often with a graveside service and headstone. Cremation allows for your loved one’s ashes to be returned to you for safekeeping or later memorialisation. Both options can include a full funeral service, and both can be deeply personal and respectful. We're here to help you explore what feels right.
Our burial and cremation services
One important decision to make – if your loved one didn’t share their preference – is between a burial and cremation. We can guide you through the key decisions, help with paperwork and bookings, and make sure the process runs smoothly.
Burials
Support with choosing a cemetery or memorial park, selecting a plot, completing paperwork and coordinating with cemetery staff on the day.
Graveside services
Guidance in planning a graveside ceremony, whether that’s for a full burial service or a simple gathering for ashes.
Cremations
Help arranging cremation at a local crematorium or memorial park, including timing, transport, and assistance with selecting an urn and future memorial options.
Memorials
Advice on creating a lasting tribute through plaques, gardens, benches, niche walls or other memorials available across Wollongong and the Illawarra.
Absolutely. Many cremations include a full service beforehand, either at one of our chapels or at another venue.
Ashes can be kept in an urn, interred in a memorial garden or scattered somewhere meaningful (with permission). Our team can help guide you through the options.
Definitely. As with any funeral service, you can incorporate music, readings, rituals and anything else you like.
After cremation, your loved one’s ashes will be returned to you – either in an urn of your choosing or a dignified container. Then, you can decide to hold on to your loved one’s ashes, share them among family, inter them in a memorial park or scatter them somewhere special.
Help in the hardest moments
Choosing between burial and cremation is often one of the most confronting choices to make during funeral planning. Our team will walk you through each step, making sure you feel heard and supported from the very first call.
We're ready to help
Speak to a Hansen & Cole funeral director
Day or night, we're here to help. Whether you're facing a loss right now or planning for the future, our team is ready.