Burial Services Sydney
Serving families across the Inner West, City of Sydney and Bayside Council areas
Burial Services
Choosing burial as a farewell option is a uniquely personal decision. There is no right or wrong way to remember your person.
Placed in the safe and knowledgeable hands of Bec, our Funeral Director and Celebrant, you will be supported every step with care and practical knowledge.
“Bec led our family through the funeral process for Dad. It is such a tough thing for a family to have to do. We had not previously been part of planning, or even speaking at a funeral. Bec was amazing and we could not have done it without her. Bec’s guidance and planning was undertaken with professionalism, kindness, patience, care and wisdom. Bec’s presence provided us all (including the teenage grandchildren) with such comfort as we all navigated the difficult week. Bec will always be remembered with gratitude and appreciation by our family.”
Why families choose burial
Burial is one of the oldest and most familiar ways of laying someone to rest and families choose burial for many different reasons.
For some it is a cultural, religious or personal tradition. For others it is simply what the deceased wanted or what feels most right for the family.
Some families find that having a fixed and physical place can be helpful in navigating grief and somewhere to return to whenever they want to feel close.
When you are ready, we are here to help guide you through planning process.
Work with Bec
Bec is our dedicated funeral director, funeral celebrant and end of life educator. With an extensive skillset and depth of knowledge this means that Bec provides continuity of care in supporting families at every step. From the first phone call, the transfer of the deceased into our care, organising the arrangements and legal paperwork through to facilitating the farewell on the day.
Bec has supported many families in creating unique and respectful burials that is both honouring and healing.
Burial options and pricing
Direct Burial
A direct burial that takes place without a formal service beforehand. The deceased is respectfully cared for and burial takes place at the cemetery, usually with only cemetery staff present. Chosen by families who prefer something quiet and private, or who plan to hold their own gathering in their own time.
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From $3,779
Graveside Service
A simple and intimate farewell held at the graveside. Bec leads the service, which can include readings, tributes, music and a committal. A sand and floral tribute is offered after the lowering as a meaningful symbol of the body returning to the elements. A graveside service can be secular or faith based and personalised.
From $5,500
Funeral followed by Burial
A formal or informal ceremony held in a chapel or at a venue of your choosing, followed by burial at the graveside. The coffin is present throughout. Bec arranges and leads the service, working with you to ensure it reflects your person. Faith based services are welcome and we are happy to work alongside clergy. Pets are welcome. Please note that burial plot and interment fees are paid directly to the cemetery.
From $7,616
Kind words from our families
EXCELLENT
Based on 150 reviews
Posted on Google![]()
Andrea Turner-BoysTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I didn't engage Bec's services personally, but my sister did — and what I witnessed was extraordinary. After a tragic and devastating loss, my sister waited for Bec to return from overseas rather than choose anyone else. That says everything. Bec helped craft a beautiful farewell for my niece, and throughout the process she was patient, compassionate, and genuinely caring — exactly what a grieving family needs in their most difficult moments. In a crowded field of funeral celebrants, Bec stands apart. I wholeheartedly recommend Heartfelt Celebrant to anyone navigating the unimaginable.Posted on Google![]()
Li LanceTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We were incredibly fortunate to have Bec as our wedding celebrant. From our very first conversation through to the ceremony itself, Bec was professional, kind, and attentive, making the entire process feel easy and stress-free. She guided us every step of the way and gave us complete confidence that everything was in good hands. On the day, everything was absolutely perfect. The ceremony was warm, meaningful, and beautifully delivered. Bec’s genuine and heartfelt approach allowed us to truly enjoy every moment, while creating an atmosphere filled with love, happiness, and emotion for both us and our family and friends. Thank you, Bec, for helping create such wonderful memories that we will cherish forever. We wholeheartedly recommend her to any couple looking for a caring, professional, and exceptional celebrant. 💕💍Posted on Google![]()
Sukey HughesTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My Uncle's funeral ran very smoothly on the day and throughout the whole process Bec our arranger was a very lovely and gentle person to work with. She spoke very well throughout the service and read the room very well. I would definitely use Picaluna again.Posted on Google![]()
Fiona HarcourtTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Bec handled our family loss with great compassion and care. She made a sad and difficult situation comforting and respectful. She managed many of the tasks for us so that we did not worry. The service was beautiful and Bec scripted the ceremony as a story of Bobs life with humour and dignity.Posted on Google![]()
James BakerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Bec was attentive to everything that we needed. Didn't oversell, just informed and cared about what we needed. So glad to have stumbled into her care for our loved one.Posted on Google![]()
Ulrich BerzinsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Thank you Bec for conducting my Mothers funeral service with such warmth of feeling and sympathy.All the effort you had to put into it really made everything much easier and less stressful for me. Very much appreciate thank youPosted on Google![]()
Levina AudreyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
It is a pleasant journey with Bec, clear instruction on the doc requirements and on the day location, super friendly, very swift process. Thank you BecPosted on Google![]()
Eleanor ChaineTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Bec led our family through the funeral process for Dad. It is such a tough thing for a family to have to do. We had not previously been part of planning, or even speaking at a funeral. Bec was amazing and we could not have done it without her. Bec's guidance and planning was undertaken with professionalism, kindness, patience, care and wisdom. Bec's presence provided us all (including the teenage grandchildren) with such comfort as we all navigated the difficult week. Bec will always be remembered with gratitude and appreciation by our family.Posted on Google![]()
J CTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Bec is a wonderful person to have by your side as you navigate the difficult journey of having to arrange a funeral while in the midst of grief and loss. Bec is kind, compassionate and thoughtful with a great eye for detail and flair for helping you create a very personal and authentic farewell for your loved one.
Burial FAQs
What is a direct burial?
A direct burial is a burial that takes place without a formal service beforehand. The deceased is respectfully cared for and burial takes place at the cemetery, usually with only cemetery staff present. It is a private option for families who prefer simplicity, or who plan to hold a separate gathering later.
What is the difference between a graveside service and a funeral followed by burial?
A graveside service is held entirely at the cemetery. It is intimate, focused and at the gravesite itself. A funeral followed by burial involves a service at a chapel or other venue first, with the committal at the graveside afterwards. Both can be deeply meaningful. The right choice depends on what feels right for your family.
What is the process after my person has died?
The first step is to contact Bec . From there, she will guide you through everything — the transfer of your person into our care, the legal and medical documentation, the arrangements and the service. Bec will guide you through each step of the process so you will never have to figure out the next step on your own.
How soon can the burial take place?
There is no fixed timeline and we generally encourage families to take their time where possible. We will work with you and the cemetery to find an arrangement that feels right without pressure or rush.
Can we personalise a burial service?
Absolutely. Whether you are having a graveside service or a full funeral followed by burial, Bec will work with you to incorporate the music, readings, tributes and personal touches that reflect your person. Even the simplest service can be made deeply meaningful.
Do you offer faith-based burial services?
Yes. We welcome faith-based burial services and are happy to work alongside clergy to incorporate religious elements that are meaningful to your family. We do not offer church-based funerals, but we can facilitate services in chapels and at graveside with clergy present.
What should I know about Catholic funerals?
Catholic funerals follow a traditional liturgical format and do not typically include secular music, visual tributes or a eulogy. The focus is on prayer for the deceased. Words of remembrance may be permitted within a short window of three to five minutes. If you are planning a Catholic funeral, we recommend speaking with your local Parish Priest about the requirements for a Requiem Mass or Funeral Liturgy. We are happy to support your family through this process.
Who arranges the burial plot?
The family will chose the burial plot. They make an appointment with their chosen cemetery and cemetery staff will help you select a burial plot. We work with cemeteries across Sydney and surrounding areas and can help guide you through the process of selecting a burial plot. Burial plot and interment fees are paid directly to the cemetery and are separate to our service fees.
How do we know our person will be cared for with respect?
We understand that entrusting the care of your person to someone else is an act of enormous trust. From the moment your person comes into our care, they are treated with the same dignity and respect we would expect for our own family. Bec will keep you informed at every stage and will never leave you wondering what is happening or what comes next.
Can our pet be part of the service?
Yes. We are a pet-friendly service and believe family includes pets. If it matters to your family that your pet is present at the farewell, it matters to us too.
How much does a burial cost?
Burial costs vary depending on the type of service and the cemetery involved. Please note that burial plot and interment fees are paid directly to the cemetery and are separate to our service fees. Download our price guide for a full breakdown, or contact Bec for a transparent conversation about costs. There are no hidden fees and no surprises.
Can you help with a memorial after the burial?
Yes. If your family would like to hold a separate memorial service after the burial, we can arrange and lead that for you whenever you are ready. Find out more on our Memorials and Other Rituals page or contact Bec to talk through what you have in mind.
Direct Burial
No Service, No Attendance
A Direct Burial is a burial that takes place without a formal funeral service beforehand. The person is respectfully cared for and burial takes place usually with only cemetery staff present.
Families may choose this option when:
- Preference for simplicity
- A memorial or celebration of life will be held at a later date
- The person who died did not want a ceremony
While family and friends may not be present, they may choose to remember their person with a simultaneous ritual.
Funeral Service followed by Burial
A funeral followed by burial is generally a more formal occasion held in a Church or Chapel. The coffin is present at the service.
Following the Church or Chapel service, family and friends may form a cortege to follow the hearse to graveside for the committal.
Alternatively, only close family and friends attend the graveside service while friends gather at the wake.
Typically, these services are religious rather than secular.
Graveside only service
A Graveside only service is a simple yet intimate farewell. The service is delivered by a Celebrant or Clergy and can include readings, prayers, tributes, music and a committal.
Often sand and a floral tribute is offered after the lowering has taken place to symbolise the body returning to the elements.
A graveside service may be religious or secular.
Funeral Service Pricing
Prices listed are a guide only
Direct Cremation
Starting from $2,750. A simple and cost effective option, ideal for those seeking a minimal fuss.
Cremation with a Service
Starting from $8,932. A funeral service with personalised ceremony held in a chapel, outdoor space, your backyard or a place of meaning.
Burial with Funeral Service
Starting from $7,616. Traditional burial held in a church or chapel. Burial plot and internment fees are paid directly to the cemetery.
I will work with you to create a heartfelt, meaningful and personal farewell for your person that fits within your budget.
Things you need to know about Death and Funerals
Why are funeral services important?
They offer connection, an opportunity to celebrate a life well lived and help families begin the healing process while promoting healthy bereavement.
What to expect at a ceremony?
Expect a tailored ceremony with music, readings and personal stories, designed to honour your loved one. A ceremony held at a cemetery and crematorium is usually 45 minutes but can be longer if desired. There is no time limit at a non traditional venue, but an hour is usually a suitable timeframe.
What’s a direct cremation?
AKA “No Service No Attendance” – meaning the body isn’t at the service. A simple and cost effective option, ideal for those seeking a minimal fuss.
The deceased is transferred from the place of death to the mortuary and then onto cremation.
The ashes can be collected by the Funeral Director and returned to the family.
The Applicant (usually the Next of Kin, Executor or family member) may also collect the ashes if you would prefer.
What’s a living wake?
A celebration of life held while your loved one is still present, allowing them to share in the love and memories.
What’s an ashes scattering?
A symbolic ceremony where ashes are released in a meaningful location, such as a favourite beach or park.
Can I travel with ashes overseas?
Yes, but regulations vary by country. We can guide you through the process to ensure compliance.
What’s the process for a Catholic funeral?
Catholic funerals are all about tradition and do not encourage secular music, holding slides, visual tributes or a eulogy. The purpose of a Catholic funeral is to gather and say prayers for the deceased.
Words of remembrance are permitted, you only have a window of 3-5 minutes and you are encouraged to talk about the faith of the deceased. Speak to your local Parish Priest about his requirements for a Requiem Mass or Funeral Liturgy.
How long does a funeral service typically last?
Most ceremonies run 30-60 minutes, but we tailor the duration to your preferences and needs.
What's the difference between a funeral and a memorial?
A funeral typically includes the body or coffin and is held shortly after a person’s death. A memorial, on the other hand, is centred around remembering the person’s life and can take place days, weeks, or even months later, without the body present.
Want a deeper understanding of how each option serves different emotional and cultural needs? Read our blog: Is there a difference between a Funeral and a Memorial?