A dignified funeral doesn’t have to cost the earth

Kim Normand aims to provide the highest level of care and support to people at a time of grief and loss, at a more affordable price point.

Business Writeup: Cherish Funerals

When Kim Normand left her corporate life behind she decided her ‘second career’ would be dedicated to business conducted from the heart.

After spending her early years travelling the world as a chartered accountant she now runs Nambour’s Cherish Funerals in Coronation Drive.

“I am grateful that corporate life has set me up very well to run my own business,” Kim said. “But I have been drawn towards this industry for a very long time and I firmly believe it is where I can make a meaningful contribution to both the deceased, and those they leave behind.” 

Cherish Funerals, formerly known as Cremations Direct, was founded by Esther Swanborough six years ago.  “This particular model was built on the belief that there was a need in the market for a comprehensive service that provided the highest level of care and support to people at a time of grief and loss, at a more affordable price point,” explained Kim.

“When I first met with Esther it was immediately apparent that we shared the belief that it is simply not okay to take advantage of people when they are grieving and vulnerable.” 

“Not everyone can, or wants to spend a huge amount of money on a funeral and it is wonderful that there are so many ways that people can remember, grieve and celebrate their loved ones. 

“Dignity shouldn’t cost the earth. From the onset, the core values Esther and I shared were a very good indication that we were a good fit to be in business together. She has been an incredible mentor to me.”

Cremations Direct opened in Nambour in July 2021 and rebranded to Cherish Funerals this September.

“After a great deal of feedback from our clients, we made the decision to change the name because we all felt it better reflected how we operate and what we do,” said Kim.

“Although our primary clients are the families of those who have passed, our care of their loved ones is an aspect of our service that we treat with the greatest reverence. 

“Having a family hand over someone who was beloved to them, is an absolute honour for us. That vessel once held a much-loved person who continues to be worthy of dignity and respect,” she said. 

“We take the time to learn as much as we can about each person from their families so that we can care for them in death, as we would have in life. Part of that care involves washing and dressing them, and these things we do in acknowledgement of who they were in life. We don’t treat everyone the same in life, and so it is in death. Sometimes there are extremely sad moments but there is great comfort in knowing you have done right by the family, and supported them in their grief.”

Cherish Funerals offers a full range of options from cremations and burials, with or without services.

“We can look after ashes and interments, basically anything the family wants, including eco friendly alternatives,” said Kim

“During my travels I was interested in how other cultures handle death, which in many countries is very different to the West. We tend not to be terribly well prepared for it and it is something of a frightening or taboo subject for many. I like to think that we are able to ease families through their loss and at the same time, treat their deceased loved ones with the most respectful and caring experience possible during their last time on earth.”

Cherish Funerals is located at 27 Coronation Ave, Nambour. Phone 1300 854 363.