Voices from the Grounds

One of the first questions families face after a death is “what do we do now?”. Funeral directors are often the first people to guide them through that moment. They help families make choices about ceremonies, venues, music and memorialisation while balancing practical arrangements with compassion.

Jason reflected on his years at the arrangement table and how that experience shapes his work today. He spoke about understanding family relationships, helping them select service locations and curating personal touches like music and readings. He also addressed common myths, explaining that families often have more choice than they realise.

Chapel and customer care form the calm centre of the service day. These teams schedule chapels, coordinate media, guide guests, manage late changes and keep an atmosphere where families can focus on memory and meaning. Success is measured in smooth timing, clear communication and thoughtful touches that reduce stress.

Carolyn described the work that happened before anyone arrived, from confirming bookings to testing tributes and streaming links. On the day, her team greeted families, answered quiet questions and kept services on track without drawing attention.

Operations provide the foundation that makes dignified services possible. The scope covers open space management, intensive horticulture, grave preparation, cremation care, heavy equipment, safety, contracts and capital works. Memorial parks also sit within the city’s green network where habitat and cooler microclimates serve the community as well as visitors in mourning.

Simon reflected on leading multidisciplinary teams across five MMP locations. He noted that much of the work goes unnoticed, yet it shapes every visitor’s experience. Grounds presentation, precise timing and technical competence are expressions of care.

Stonemasonry brings together safety, craftsmanship and conservation. Work ranges from stabilising leaning stones, correcting inadequate past repairs and updating fixings, to fine letter repainting, lead lettering and lime based conservation. Teams partner with councils, community groups and state agencies, and contribute to stronger standards so new monuments are safer by design.

Sach shared projects from across New South Wales, including conservation of war memorials and the restoration of the Frazer Mausoleum. He explained how the team revived traditional skills taught by master craftspeople and applied them with care.