Our Funeral Cover options comply with the QLD Funeral Funds Act 1982. The money you pay for your funeral plan cover is held independently, invested and safe-guarded until it is required. It is only made available upon death.

FAQs Archive - Sylvan Funerals

Q: Where Will my Money Go?

Your pre-paid funeral plan monies are held in a capital guaranteed funeral fund managed by Sureplan Friendly Society Ltd (‘Sureplan’), a Queensland based Friendly Society. Sureplan is one of the few approved Funeral Benefit Fund operators in the pre-paid funeral fund market and has a history serving the financial needs of Australians. By entering into a Funeral Bond, you will become a member of Sureplan Friendly Society Ltd.

Q: Minister or Celebrant. What’s the Difference?

Again, this is a personal decision as to whether a minister or celebrant officiates at the funeral service. A celebrant is someone who takes the funeral service, generally without a lot of prayers or bible readings and can provide either a faith or non-faith-based service as decided by the family. If you would like a minister to take to the funeral but haven’t been to church for a while, don’t be concerned. Ministers are happy to officiate at funerals outside of the church either at the graveside or a chapel.

Q: Where Will We Go to After the Funeral Service?

After the funeral service many people find it helpful to gather and share memories over Morning Tea, Lunch or Afternoon Tea either at their residence, church hall or Restaurant/Club. Some people choose to look after the catering themselves while others may have the food catered. If you need assistance in finding a catering venue or caterer, please ask us and we will provide you with some options.

Q: Do We Have to Have A Funeral Service?

No, but it helps family and friends to pay their last respects and help in the mourning process by saying goodbye. Some families opt for a private burial or cremation and organise a Memorial Service later.

Q: What Happens to The Flowers?

This is the family’s decision. You may wish to leave the flowers at either the graveside, the crematorium, take them home or to a nursing home, hospital or hospice. Any cards accompanying flowers are removed and given to family.

Q: Can We Put Things Inside the Coffin?

The simple answer is yes. Both adults and children find it helpful to place a note, card, photo, money, favourite book or other appropriate item in the coffin. Placing items inside the coffin is normally done at the viewing, however if a viewing is not taking place then we will see that the items are placed for you.

Q: Viewing the Deceased – Yes or No?

This decision is a personal one. No one should be pressured to do so or be prevented from doing so if they wish. Some people find that viewing their loved one helps them to accept their loss and for others it is a time to say goodbye. Some families prefer not to view the body, opting to remember their loved one as they were We provide private facilities for families wishing to pay their last respects.