During its first year of operation, from August 5, 2013, the Norwood Park-run facility carried out 208 cremations, compared to 87 burials in the same period.

Norwood Park general manager Stephen Beer said they have been well supported by local funeral directors from across the region.

“The figures speak for themselves,” he said. “People wanted a crematorium and once it came online were prepared to use it. At this stage we are averaging about four each week, which is about the norm for a city with a population of around 38,000 like Bathurst.”

Mr Beer said Bathurst Regional Council has approved a development application for work to begin on landscaping in the open paddock area behind the crematorium.

“The landscaping plan is very comprehensive and detailed,” he said. “However, once the pathways, lighting and irrigation infrastructure are in place, the development of memorials for placement of ashes will begin.

“We are currently waiting on the construction certificate for the dam, which will become the primary source for our irrigation.

“Once memorials are built, they will be available for sale to families who have, in many cases, been waiting to inter the ashes of loved ones in a more picturesque and peaceful setting. The area will include family plots where many members of a family may have their ashes placed.

“Norwood Park will set the sale price for the memorials, as we do with all services relating to the chapel and cremations.”

Mr Beer said Bathurst Regional Council will continue to set the fees and charges for all other areas in the cemetery, which includes burials in both the lawn and monumental sections, as well as placement of ashes in the existing rose garden and niche walls. 

“It is a concern to me when I read negative press from one or two people constantly trying to put a negative spin on the price setting.”

Mr Beer said Norwood Park is committed to the overall management of the cemetery and crematorium and has invested almost $2 million in the project.

“The landscaping development will only add to the overall crematorium project, which has been proven to be a success story in the making since we opened.”

Bathurst Regional Council general manager David Sherley said council sets the fees and charges for the cemetery as part of its annual management plan process, which is advertised each year.

He said similar principles also apply for the general admissions charges to the local aquatic centre, which is run by Belgravia Leisure.

Fees for an adult burial increased by five per cent this year to $2889 weekdays and $3442 for weekends. Reopening of a grave site went up 70 per cent to $1750 weekdays and up 50 per cent on weekends to $2250.