Water Cremation Brisbane & Gold Coast
Aquamation - Alkaline Hydrolysis - Resomation
Water Cremation in Australia with Newhaven Funerals
As Australians increasingly seek environmentally conscious choices in all areas of life including end-of-life planning, water cremation has emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional burial and flame cremation.
Also known as Alkaline Hydrolysis, Resomation, or Aquamation, Water Cremation offers a gentle and natural way to return the body to the earth, using water rather than fire.
At Newhaven Funeral Directors, located in Brisbane and Gold Coast, we are committed to providing meaningful, modern and environmentally responsible services. In conjunction with our friends at The Gentle Way, we are proud to offer this first class option to families seeking a sustainable and eco friendly option for either themselves or their loved ones.
What Is Water Cremation?
Water Cremation is a process that accelerates the body’s natural decomposition through a combination of water, alkali (such as potassium or sodium hydroxide), heat, and a gentle rocking motion. Unlike flame cremation, which uses fire to break down the body, water cremation relies on a chemical reaction in a controlled, sterile environment.
Here’s how the process works:
- The body is placed in a sealed stainless steel vessel.
- A mixture of 95% rain water and 5% alkali is added.
- The vessel is heated to no warmer than 93°.
- A gentle left to right tiling motion takes place.
- Over several hours, the body is gently broken down into its natural components. At the end of the process:
- The bone fragments are soft and white, and are dried and processed into a fine, powder-like substance (similar to cremated ashes) that can be returned to the family.
- ● The remaining liquid is sterile after a five stage filtration process. It is safely discharged into the wastewater system and treated, just like other biological waste.
Why Choose Water Cremation?
Environmentally Friendly
Water Cremation uses up to 90% less energy than flame cremation and emits no greenhouse gases or harmful chemicals, such as mercury, airborne toxins or particulate matter. It also avoids the land use and long-term environmental impact associated with traditional burials.
Gentle and Respectful
Many families find comfort in the fact that Water Cremation is a calm, natural process that mimics how the body would decompose in soil – but in a much shorter time frame and under controlled conditions.
Sustainable Byproducts
The sterile liquid byproduct is safe, odourless, and contains no human DNA. It is processed through standard wastewater treatment systems, making it non-toxic and environmentally neutral.
Is Water Cremation Legal in Australia?
YES! – Water Cremation is legal and regulated in Australia, and is currently offered in several states, including:
- New South Wales
- Victoria
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Western Australia
Cost Comparison in Australia
While costs can vary depending on location and services chosen, water cremation is generally comparable to flame cremation and less expensive than burial, which often involves purchasing a plot, casket, and ongoing maintenance fees.
At Newhaven Funeral Directors in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, we are committed to offering meaningful, modern, and environmentally conscious end-of-life choices. For families seeking a natural and eco-friendly farewell for themselves or their loved ones, this innovative service reflects a growing shift towards greener funeral options.
