Scattering Ashes: What You Need to Know
Scattering ashes can be a beautiful and deeply personal way to say goodbye — a ritual full of meaning, symbolism, and connection to place.
But before you gently release your loved one’s ashes into the wind or bury them beneath a tree, there are a few important things to consider.
Whether you're planning a quiet moment in your garden or a larger memorial in nature, this guide covers what’s allowed, how ashes affect the environment, and how to create a lasting tribute in the Northern Rivers of NSW.
What You’ll Receive (If You Don’t Make Other Arrangements)
After cremation, ashes are typically returned in a standard hard plastic container — simple, functional, and not especially attractive.
Some people are ready to open the container and make plans straight away. Others tuck it into a cupboard and come back to it when the time feels right. There’s no rush.
It’s Not Always Easy to Receive the Ashes
Picking up ashes can be unexpectedly emotional. It’s often the moment the finality of loss truly lands.
You might want to:
Have a support person with you
Plan ahead so you’re emotionally prepared
Ask your funeral director for help transferring the ashes to something more appropriate or beautiful
Is It Legal to Scatter Ashes in NSW?
Yes — but there are a few guidelines to follow:
Private Property: You don’t need a permit to scatter or bury ashes in your own backyard.
Public Land: You’ll usually need permission from the local council or land authority (e.g. parks, beaches, bushland).
Waterways: Scattering at sea is allowed, but should be done away from swimmers and boats. Check local marine or council guidance first.
Be respectful of others nearby, and always consider cultural sensitivities — especially if you’re on land with First Nations significance.
Practical Tips for Scattering Ashes
It’s not as straightforward as just letting go. A few things to keep in mind:
Check the wind. Stand upwind to avoid ashes blowing back toward you or others.
Use a scattering tube. It makes things easier and more graceful. Your funeral director can help with transferring.
Choose the right spot. Beaches, parks, gardens, or favourite hiking trails — just check permission first.
Take your time. You can scatter all at once, or in stages across meaningful places.
Ashes and the Environment
Ashes aren’t harmful in small amounts, but they contain high levels of salt and are very alkaline, which can disrupt soil pH and harm plant life if placed directly into the ground.
If you’re planting something:
Mix ashes with compost or soil conditioners
Avoid placing directly at the roots
Choose a biodegradable urn designed to neutralise the impact of ashes
Trees and Plants That Thrive in the Northern Rivers
If you’re planning a living memorial, these are meaningful and well-suited to our subtropical climate:
🌿 Native Trees
Tuckeroo – Hardy and bird-friendly
Lilly Pilly – A symbol of regeneration and family
Blue Quandong – Sacred and striking, with bright blue fruit
🌸 Flowering Plants
Frangipani – Evokes peace and remembrance
Camellia – Symbolises love and admiration
Grevillea – Bold, native, and pollinator-friendly
The Living Urn
For a meaningful, sustainable option, I recommend The Living Urn.
This biodegradable urn is designed to mix ashes safely with soil and help grow a tree, flower, or shrub. It comes with everything you need to neutralise the ash and create a living legacy.
Whether you’re planting at home, on a rural property, or somewhere special, it’s a beautiful way to turn loss into life.
Taking Ashes Overseas
If you’re planning to take ashes overseas — whether for scattering or burial in another country — it’s important to prepare ahead.
Most airlines will allow you to carry ashes in your hand luggage, but you should:
Contact your airline in advance to check their specific requirements
Ensure the ashes are in a non-metallic container (so they can be x-rayed)
Carry a certificate or letter from the crematorium, which your funeral director can help organise
Each country has different customs requirements, so it’s worth checking with the destination’s embassy or consulate to avoid delays or distress at the border.
Other Options (If You’re Not Scattering)
If scattering doesn’t feel right — or if you’d like to keep a portion of the ashes — here are some thoughtful alternatives:
Urns: Ceramic, wooden, handmade, or modern
Keepsake Jewellery: Tiny amounts of ash sealed inside pendants or beads
Fireworks: Ashes can be placed inside aerial shells for a spectacular final farewell
Glass Art: Infused into paperweights or decorative pieces
Burial in Memorial Gardens: Many cemeteries and crematoriums offer peaceful places for ashes to rest
It’s Okay to Take Your Time
There’s no deadline. You might decide right away, or wait for a birthday, anniversary, or simply when you feel ready.
Some families scatter part now and keep some for later. Others choose to create multiple tributes — one for each child, sibling, or close friend. There’s no right or wrong.
Need Support or Guidance?
If you're unsure what to do with your loved one’s ashes — or want to create a personal, meaningful tribute — I’m here for you.
As a funeral director based in the Northern Rivers, I can guide you gently through your options and help you find something that feels right — whether that’s a scattering, a planting, or something entirely unique.
Reach out any time if you need a calm, compassionate voice and practical support.
Let’s create something special together.
