society & culture

DEAD AIR #160 by The Departure

Loved ones left behind after voluntary assisted dying say more support is needed – ABC News

Heat and fires expose ancestral remains in Victoria's north-west – ABC News

The Overturned, a liturgy for what cannot be saved. From Death & Birds, Chloe Hope

Sadly, Norma Hancock has died. Norma bought the Guildford General Store when she was 89, for her community – “She understood that a small country store is never just a shop – it is a meeting place, a heartbeat, a soul.” All are welcome to attend Norma’s funeral service, Wed 18 Feb, 2.30pm, Mt Alexander Funerals, 12 Campbell Street, Castlemaine. Following the service, a gathering at the Guildford General Store Tavern to share stories, food, drinks, and memories.

The Monthly Gathering, a grief space for those permanently childless, not-by-choice. Next gathering Thurs 26 Feb, 7-9pm, Chewton. Facebook link HERE for more info.

BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness an exhibition developed by Dr. Gunther von Hagens and Dr. Angelina Whalley. Showcases real human bodies preserved through the plastination process. Opening March 2026, the District Docklands, all ages, from $19 for children, from $33 for adults. Join waiting list for tickets HERE.

The Place for Lost Feelings, created by artist Clare James. A botanical installation for participants to visit and acknowledge feelings of grief or loss, but equally feelings of gratitude or love. Sat 21 - Sun 22 March 2026. Healesville Living and Learning Centre, FREE, limited places book HERE.

Checking in with grief. Small, gentle messages can remind people they’re cared for without adding pressure - @shrinkchicks

TRACKS: Black and White – Bleak Squad / Trick Pony – Civic / 3am - Chimers

DEAD AIR #159 by The Departure

How to become a tree – Many people today want to commit their remains to rejuvenating the planet. But are these green deaths just greenwashing? - AEON

What are the standards for natural burial in Australia? – NDAN website.

Showing Up For Each Other: Community Death Care Workshop - funded by the Wicking Trust. Supported by the Australian Home Funeral Alliance, in conjunction with Social Health Australia and the Death Literacy Institute. Led by myself, Jenny Blake & Nici Wright. Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 April, Castlemaine. NOW FULL! There are several people on the waitlist, so if you can’t make it, please let us know.

Flow States – a therapeutically guided walk along Campbell's Creek with Bonnie Cassidy & Madeleine McClelland. Sun, 22 Feb, 9am - 11am AEDT. $75, free for fire-affected community members. Book HERE

Australian Hearse Nationals Australia’s only Hearse Festival, 1–2 August 2026, as part of the Goldfields Gothic Festival, Maldon. Registrations open soon.

Virtual Memorialisation experience set to launch mid-2026 at Colac Cemetery - More info HERE

TRACKS: T.H.E E.N.D. – Vague Rituals / Citadel – Ronny Quasar / Absolutely Do Not Comply in Advance – Repulsa

DEAD AIR #158 by The Departure

Unlicensed, unregulated: Grave concerns over boom in funeral directors - SMH

Showing Up For Each Other: Community Death Care Workshop - funded by the Wicking Trust. Supported by the Australian Home Funeral Alliance, in conjunction with Social Health Australia and the Death Literacy Institute. Led by myself, Jenny Blake & Nici Wright. Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 April, Castlemaine. EOIs open now, submit HERE

From Death Anxiety to Death Doula, an interview with Danni Petkovic - No Ordinary Monday Podcast, Ep024

Stillborn Reflections by Ashley Hudson – Last Hurrah Funerals blog

Threshold Choir is starting in Castlemaine! First meeting at Tea Rooms, Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, 2pm Sat 7 Feb. Call Jenny Peake 0400 570 989 if you need further details.

Oral History Service with Parandeh Pictures, local film makers based at The Mill, Castlemaine. hello@parandehpictures.com or call 0434 240 853.

TRACKS: Bucket List - Wicked City / Hands On Dad - Het Slayer