Geelong Cemeteries Trust will host its free Living and Dying: Let’s Talk event at the Geelong Racing Club on Friday, March 27.
Partnering with the Geelong and District Aged Care Network and National Advance Care Planning Week (March 23-27), the community event will encourage open discussion surrounding the topics of planning for death and grief.
Local industry experts will take part in speed-talking presentations to educate patrons about topics such as voluntary assisted dying, end-of-life care, mental health, oncology, organ donation, and bereavement.
The event is also a great opportunity for professionals in related fields to be updated on industry news and practices. It will incorporate networking, expo stands, and a complimentary buffet lunch will be provided.
Geelong Cemeteries Trust chief executive Darryl Thomas OAM will host the Geelong Living and Dying: Let’s Talk event – the third of its kind – off the back of its success in Portarlington and Gisborne.
Darryl says that it’s significant for this event to coincide with National Advance Care Planning Week, further spreading awareness of the importance of putting an end-of-life plan in place, and the recording of values and preferences to guide medical treatment decision-making if a person is unable to do this for themselves.
“Unfortunately, people often don’t consider their healthcare wishes or put a plan in place while they are still physically and mentally able. Our role in this space is to assist the local community in considering what is right for them and provide quality burial and cremation facilities,” Daryl says.
“Planning for death brings much peace of mind to those who are facing death, and to their loved ones, as death becomes imminent. National Advance Care Planning Week encourages Australians to make their health care wishes known.
“It encourages everyone – regardless of age or health condition – to speak to their family about what they would want to happen to them if they were unable to make these decisions themselves.
“The event will provide information from medical practitioners, the funeral industry, and community and volunteer groups who support the dying and their loved ones.”
The day begins at 9.30am and concludes at 5pm. Guests are welcome to come along for half a day, or the full day. A comfortable setting will enable guests to discuss death wishes, planning for death, and how to deal with grief.
For full details and to RSVP attendance, visit www.gct.net.au or contact Geelong Cemeteries Trust on 5249 3939.
