With mounting pressure on the environment, it is not surprising the concept of creating lasting natural memorials by developing bushland burial sites is growing in popularity.

As part of Adelaide Cemeteries Authority’s commitment to providing a diverse range of cemetery services, Enfield Memorial Park will open South Australia’s first natural burial area before Christmas 2008.

In natural burial, the body (or cremated remains) is prepared for burial or interment without chemical preservatives and a simple shroud or biodegradable casket is used. The body or remains are returned to the earth to decompose naturally and be recycled to new life.

The new burial area, located near the western boundary of the Park, offers an environmentally sustainable alternative to existing funeral practices and a unique final resting place. The area will be cultivated using plants indigenous to the adjacent Folland Park Reserve and a tree or shrub will be planted for every burial or interment.

The area will provide for both single and companion burials and the interment of cremated remains. A quiet contemplation space set within the bushland will be available for reflection and remembrance.

Each burial site in the area will be accurately recorded within the Authority’s cemetery management system and identified by microchip technology and a native plant. This will be supplemented by a plaque on a communal memorial wall.

Over time the developing bushland becomes a living and lasting natural memorial.

Please contact the Administration Office to register your interest in the natural burial area.