Frequently asked questions
Make enquiryArranging a funeral
What do I need to do?
You can call us anytime, 24/7 on 02 4951 1166, and we can talk you through what is needed before we bring your loved one into our care.
If you are not ready to call us yet, you can view our Arranging a funeral page for more information on the sort of questions our Funeral Arranger will discuss with you.
Do I have to have the service at a chapel?
Our chapels are an excellent option for a service, but they are not for everyone. You can also hold the service at a church, or another place of special significance to you and your loved one.
Wherever you wish to have the service, we can work with you to make sure we have everything you need to properly honour and celebrate your loved one.
Are funerals expensive?
We are often asked how much a funeral costs. This is a hard question to answer with a simple figure. The cost of a funeral can vary widely depending on factors such as location, the type of service, if it’s a burial or cremation, choice of coffin and floral arrangements, additional services such as service sheet, photo presentation or catering, and finally, which funeral home you choose.
At Pettigrew Family Funerals an average service that includes a service at one of our locations, a cremation, a low range coffin, floral arrangement, beautifully designed service sheets and photo presentation as well as catering for 50 guests, is around $8,500.
If you wish to hold the service at a church or memorial park, additional costs may increase the price from $400 upwards. Finally, a burial instead of cremation adds the largest additional costing. This is dependent on which cemetery or memorial park, but will cost an additional $3,000 to $6,000.
Remember, while funerals can be expensive, there are options available to suit your budget. We encourage you to honestly communicate your budget concerns to us so we can help you make informed choices that still honour your loved one while managing costs effectively. You can find out more about our services and prices here: https://www.pettigrew.com.au/a...
Pre-plan
Will my family need to pay more money?
No, once you have paid in full for your funeral at today’s prices, there is no more to pay. The only exception would be if the funeral service as detailed on your contract is changed.
For example, you may have requested for a single rose to adorn the coffin but your family may choose a larger floral tribute, therefore they would pay the difference; or if any out of area or after hour’s expenses have been incurred.
Can I transfer or cancel my contract?
Current legislation prevents the withdrawal of pre-paid monies deposited into funeral funds until the time of death. However, your arrangements may be transferred to another funeral director should you move away from the Newcastle area. A surcharge will apply.
Is my money safe?
Our pre-paid plans complies with the NSW Funeral Funds Act 1979. The money you pay for your pre-paid funeral plan is held independently, invested and safe-guarded until it is required.
It is not available to Pettigrew Family Funerals until the funeral service is completed.
Where will my money go?
Your pre-paid funeral plan monies are held in a capital guaranteed funeral fund managed by Foresters Friendly Society (‘Foresters’) a Victorian based Friendly Society.
Foresters is one of the largest national operators in the pre-paid funeral fund market and has a history dating back over 160 years serving the financial needs of Australians.
Pettigrew Family Funerals place their trust in Foresters Friendly Society to help our families we serve during their time of need.
General
I’ve been asked to speak at a Funeral, what should I focus on?
This is one of the most common questions our Celebrant’s are asked. And it is a great question, as many people express they feel scared at the thought of speaking at a funeral service.
We understand how overwhelming this could feel at the time, and we understand the feelings that could come up around saying the right thing or doing your best in honouring your loved one who has passed.
We recommend, instead of getting caught up in names, dates and places, to keep it simple.
Ask yourself - Who was this person to me?
If you can sit back and imagine that you have all of these people sitting in front of you - what would you like them to know about your loved one? Know that you can’t cover a whole lifetime in a couple of minutes.
Less is always more; you are offering a little glimpse into the life of your loved one.
Are you still family owned?
Yes, we have been a family run and owned Novocastrian business since we started in 1969.
Are you expensive?
We are proudly one of the most affordable in the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Hunter Regions. For more information on our pricing, please visit: https://www.pettigrew.com.au/a...
Where do you transfer a loved one to?
Everyone that comes into our care will remain at our flagship Mayfield West facility until the service, burial or cremation. Please know, a minimum of two staff will transfer them from their place of passing in one of our purpose-built transfer vans.
Where is your crematorium?
Our Hunter Crematorium, is located at our Mayfield West facilities and is family owned and operated.
Can I see my loved one again?
Of course, we can arrange a viewing, or multiple if desired.