Losing a loved one is never easy, and deciding how to honor their memory can feel overwhelming. If you’re considering scattering your loved one’s ashes in Victoria or elsewhere in Australia, know that you’re not alone in this journey.
Many find comfort in scattering their loved ones ashes to a special place in nature. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate your loved ones life and create a lasting connection. The process of scattering ashes can be simple; choose a meaningful location, check local regulations, and scatter the ashes carefully. But, there is more than that, there are some important things to consider to ensure you honor your loved one’s memory respectfully and also do not harm the environment around you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know – from choosing a meaningful location to understand the regulations. We’ll also explore some alternatives that have more environmental impact and can bring more sense of peace and connection.
Understanding Rules and Regulations of Scattering Ashes in Victoria
The rules of scattering human ashes in public in Victoria including Melbourne are generally permissive. However, it’s important to keep the following in mind:
General Regulations:
- There is no central authority or general permit required for scattering ashes in public spaces in Victoria.
- However, local councils and public places may have varying requirements, some do not have any formal rules while others may have specific rules.
- Be aware that human ashes have a high pH level (similar to bleach) and can harm the environment.
- Consider using eco-friendly scattering methods like treating the ashes into nutrients for planting trees with Living Legacy Formula.
Beaches and Oceans:
- Scattering ashes at beaches or in the ocean is generally allowed without requiring specific permits.
- If you want to scatter from a boat, obtain permission from the owner first.
Parks and Gardens:
- Many public parks allow ash scattering, but it’s best to check with the local council first.
- Some specific locations, like the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne, strictly prohibit scattering ashes.
- Other councils, like Hobsons Bay City Council, explicitly permit scattering ashes on land owned or managed by the council.
- The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) does not permit scattering ashes.
Cultural Sensitivity:
- Avoid scattering ashes at culturally significant sites without proper permission.
Private Property:
- Scattering ashes on private property requires the landowner’s permission.
Popular Locations For Scattering Ash in Victoria:
There are some well known popular places for scattering ashes in Victoria including:
- Beaches along the Great Ocean Road
- The Yarra River
- National parks in the Dandenong Ranges
- Port Phillip Bay
- Mornington Green Legacy Gardens, the most eco-friendly option because your ash will be treated to become nutrients for planting and growing a legacy tree.
Environmental Consideration Of Scattering Ashes
While scattering ashes may seem like a natural way to return your loved one to earth, it’s important to understand the potential environmental consequences. Cremated remains have more risk than we generally know.
Human ashes have a pH level similar to bleach and contain high levels of salt . This composition can have detrimental effects on the environment:
- Soil Damage: The high alkalinity and salt content can harm soil health, potentially killing plant life around the place that you scatter ashes.
- Water Pollution: When you scatter in water, ashes can disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
- Plant Growth Inhibition: A study in Melbourne showed that untreated cremated remains killed 90% of seedlings in just 21 days.
These findings challenge the notion that scattering ashes is an eco-friendly option. So, how is the best way to scatter ashes in Victoria?
Best Practice For Scattering Ashes In Victoria: Turning Ashes Into Living Memorials
One of the best options that you can do is scatter the ash through an ash treatment process then infusing the treated ash into a soil for planting and growing a memorial tree. This is offered by Mornington Green Legacy Gardens, located on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula.
This unique botanical garden has developed a best practice method for handling cremated remains that transforms the traditional concept of ash scattering:
- Specialized Treatment: Instead of scattering, ashes undergo a patented Living Legacy Ash Treatment. This process detoxifies the cremated remains, addressing environmental concerns associated with conventional scattering.
- Nutrient Conversion: The treated ashes are then converted into beneficial nutrients capable of supporting plant growth.
- Growing A Living Memorial: These nutrients are used to nourish a memorial tree of your choice, creating a living, growing tribute to your loved one.
Interested in the formula? Learn here for the science behind Living Legacy Formula and Legacy Trees!
This innovative process offers several advantages over traditional ash scattering:
- Environmental Benefits: It prevents potential soil and water contamination associated with untreated ash scattering.
- Lasting Memorial: Families have a specific, beautiful location to visit and remember their loved one.
- Positive Impact: Each memorial tree contributes to the local ecosystem and helps offset carbon emissions.
The cost for this best practice at Mornington Green starts from $7,000. This includes the patented ash treatment, tree planting, a ceremony for up to 15 people, and ongoing care for the memorial tree without addition of any costs. You can also choose to pre-plan your living legacy at Mornington Green, this potentially reduce the emotional and financial burden on your family during future difficult times.
By choosing this method, Victorians can honor their loved ones in a way that not only celebrates their memory but also contributes positively to the environment. While scattering ashes remains a popular choice in Victoria, it’s important to consider its environmental impact. Mornington Green Legacy Gardens offers an innovative alternative that creates a meaningful, lasting tribute while benefiting the environment.
Turning ashes into a living memorial does more than simply scatter cremated ashes – it plants hope, nurtures life, and creates an enduring legacy. This approach ensures that your loved one’s memory lives on, not just in your heart, but in the thriving environment of Victoria.
To experience this unique option firsthand and explore the possibilities for your own legacy, you can book a tour of Mornington Green garden here.
Witness the beauty and serenity of Mornington Greens living legacy trees and discover how you can create a lasting, positive impact.
