Geelong Cemeteries Trust is proud to announce a major refurbishment of the crematorium at Geelong Memorial Park, marking a significant step forward in sustainable cremation services. The multi-stage project, set to be delivered over three years and scheduled to commence mid-2026, reflects a growing industry focus on balancing capacity, environmental performance, and community expectations.
At the centre of the project is the installation of Australia’s first electric hybrid cremator. Although, the project encompasses far more than this technology upgrade.
The project also encompasses:
- The construction of a new furnace facility, including a dedicated witness room to offer families a more personalised farewell experience.
- Updates to the existing facility, including additional office space
- The introduction of advanced flue gas treatment technology aligned with European standards
- The installation of a solar farm, expected to generate a significant portion of the energy required for cremation operations
- The early adoption of BioLPG (bio-propane) — co-processed LPG produced with the incorporation of biogenic feedstocks — through an agreement with Origin Energy, offering an immediate reduction in emissions from existing cremators.
Geelong Cemeteries Trust Chair John Mitchell says the upgrade is a direct response to the needs of the community. “Our community deserves facilities that are fit for the future. This project ensures we can continue to serve families with the care and dignity they expect, while taking meaningful steps towards reaching Net Zero.”
Chief Executive Officer Dean Matthews says the project is as much about process as it is outcomes. “Refurbishments of this scale require careful planning and an equal measure of ambition and caution. Every decision has been made with families in mind – from the environmental benefits of the hybrid cremator to their experience with Geelong Cemeteries Trust. Throughout construction, our commitment to compassionate, uninterrupted service remains unchanged.”
The hybrid electric cremator will be supplied by Facultatieve Technologies, a global leader in cremation systems with more than 140 years of engineering expertise.
“We are thrilled to work with Geelong Cemeteries Trust to provide Australia’s first hybrid cremator. Their selection of the electric hybrid cremator demonstrates a commitment to futureproofing the facility and adapting to an ever-changing world. But perhaps more importantly, it reflects a real commitment to environmental responsibility, forward-thinking leadership, and a willingness to embrace innovation for the benefit of their community and the planet,” says Michael Hardaker, Sales Manager, UK & Australasia.
Geelong Cemeteries Trust looks forward to sharing updates with the community as this important project takes shape.
