Memorials

 FAQs

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We offer a range of thoughtful memorial plaques and headstones that honour and celebrate the memory of your loved one. We recognise that choosing a memorial is a deeply personal step in honouring someone you love and we are here to make the process as easy as possible.

Find out what types of memorials are available, how the process works and what options best suit your needs.

'Memorial' encompasses plaques, inscriptions, headstones, plinths, slabs or any other type of monument to mark an interment site. At times the descriptions may be interchangeable.

Memorialising ash or burial sites

All interments (burial and ash) must be memorialised within 12 months as per Tweed Shire Council’s policy(PDF, 155KB). This means all sites will need either a plaque, headstone or similar to ensure there are no unmarked sites. The interment fees include an amount for a standard plaque and base. Any deviation from the standard will incur additional costs.

How to apply for and order a memorial plaque or headstone

An application for a memorial is sent to the applicant after the fees for the interment have been paid. Please note, burial applications paid through a funeral director may be delayed due to their monthly billing cycles.

A memorial application can only be applied for by the Right of Interment Holder, that is the person who is the applicant of the burial or ash interment site. To allow another person to do this on your behalf, please refer to information on the Right of Interment Holder(PDF, 88KB).

All types of memorial options with images are detailed on the Memorial items page.

How the memorial process works

After the fees for the burial or ash interment have been received, the memorial application is sent to the Right of Interment Holder.

  1. The memorial application needs to be signed with the draft wording and design upgrade options and emailed to cemeteries@tweed.nsw.gov.au or posted to Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, NSW 2484.
  2. You will receive a notification confirming your application has been received, and a draft proof and quote (if applicable) will be sent within approximately 10 working days.
  3. The draft proof and quote will be emailed to you for approval. If you do not have email, it will be posted with an edit/approval form and a reply-paid envelope. All edits and approvals must be in writing from the Right of Interment Holder.
  4. If edits are required, an amended draft proof will be sent to you.
  5. Once the draft proof is approved, an invoice for any upgrades will be issued. The plaque will be ordered once the invoice is paid, or immediately if no upgrades apply.
  6. The ordering process can take several days to finalise. You will be notified once the plaque has been ordered.

Timeframes

  • Cast bronze plaques take around 6 weeks.
  • Vitreous enamel plaques are inscribed twice yearly and may take up to 6 months.
  • Lawn memorials, plinths and non standard granite orders take a minimum of 6 months to complete and install.
  • Granite orders require at least 3–4 months for delivery before inscription and finishing. Installation occurs afterward and is weather dependent.

To memoralise an older unmarked grave or refurbish an existing memorial, see unmarked graves and refurbishment of existing graves. 

Frequently asked questions

Can I provide my own vase?

Yes, provided it meets the Cemeteries Policy(PDF, 155KB).

"Families may supply their own vases provided they are made of non-breakable material such as plastic, copper or stainless steel and have a spike on the base to stop them tipping over. Glass, ceramic or other breakable material is not acceptable."

Can I visit the cemetery to view examples of plaques or headstones?

Yes. Families are welcome to visit the cemetery to see examples of standard and upgraded memorials in place. This can help you get a better sense of the size, materials and finishes available. For assistance, an appointment must be made with the cemeteries team by calling 02 6670 2400.

What information can I include on a memorial plaque?

Most plaques include the person’s name, dates and a short message. Some plaque types also allow additional lines, emblems or a photograph. The draft proof will show the layout and wording before anything is finalised.

What happens if I need help deciding what to write on the plaque?

Many families find wording difficult during a time of grief. Our team can offer guidance on common wording styles, layout options and what fits within the character limits of each plaque type.

What if I live interstate or overseas?

All documents, proofs and approvals can be completed via email or post. You do not need to be present for any part of the memorial installation.

What materials are best for long‑term durability?

Cast bronze and granite are both highly durable materials designed to withstand weather and time. Our team can help you understand the lifespan and maintenance of each option so you can choose what feels right.

Do Cemetery staff clean memorials?

Cemetery staff do not clean any memorials – the cleaning and upkeep of memorials is the responsibility of the family.

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