Council to waiver cemetery fees for babies, children
At last week’s monthly meeting, council agreed to waive the fees at its cemeteries for children up to the age of 10.
Berri Barmera Council Mayor Ella Winnall said the fee waiver was a small way for council to show compassion and support to grieving families.
“While grief is never easy at any stage of life, the death of a child is such an impossible thing to grapple with,” she said.
“While nothing could alleviate the grief of losing a child, we hope this fee waiver will in some small way support families in such a difficult time.
“Waiving the fee is a small impact to council’s budget, so it is something we felt the community would be comfortable supporting those families with.”
Previously, grave digging fees were $282.50 and $342.50 for stillborn and child graves respectively, which is comparable to other local councils.
Cr Collis Marrett requested the fee waiver at the council meeting, which was supported by the chamber.
“I think someone who has gone through that time needs some sympathy from the council,” Cr Marrett said.
Mayor Winnall recognised Cr Marrett for his advocacy and compassion.