The Shoalhaven has become one of the first regions in NSW to offer shrouded cremation following changes to NSW legislation and the development of an innovative roller system by Council's in-house fabricators and Bereavement Services team.
A shrouded cremation involves the deceased being respectfully wrapped in a linen or cotton cloth for cremation, rather than placed in a traditional coffin.
Only a small number of shrouded cremations have previously taken place in NSW, typically using a shroud bearer that is a wooden platform placed beneath the deceased, often with an added covering.
Council's new equipment is believed to be the first solution that requires neither a bearer nor extra covering, significantly reducing materials and improving environmental outcomes.
Director City Services, Kevin Norwood, said the innovation was driven by community need and Council's commitment to deliver a more sustainable outcome.
"Our goal is always to provide a cremation service that is in keeping with the deceased and family wishes while delivering a respectful, sustainable and safe solution," Mr Norwood said.
"The team sought to develop bespoke equipment that would minimise the materials placed into the cremator, which led to the design of a purpose-built roller system that supports the deceased with dignity," he said.
"We believe this new equipment is the most sustainable shrouded cremation method currently available in NSW."
The development of the new equipment was prompted after Council was approached by Tender Funerals in Port Kembla to investigate whether a shrouded cremation could be offered locally.
With sustainability front of mind, the team explored options to remove a shroud bearer, which facilitated inserting the body into a cremator at high temperatures. After confirming that the process could begin with a cold cremator, the Bereavement Services team worked alongside Council's fabricators and welders to draw on their engineering expertise and created a specialised roller system that allows the shrouded body to be smoothly guided into the cremator chamber.
The result is a custom-designed roller system with a reinforced metal frame that provides stability and dignity. Its open, low‑material construction eliminates the need for a bearer or secondary platform, allowing the shroud to be placed directly onto the trolley while still meeting all safety, handling and operational standards.
Council also consulted with the Illawarra Public Health Unit throughout the journey from concept to delivery.
Council is offering this service at the Shoalhaven Memorial Gardens and Lawn Cemetery
