GENERAL Manager of Norwood Park Stephen Beer says that the Mitchell crematorium celebrates 50 years in Canberra this week.

“The Crematorium was founded in 1966 by Robert Allison (Allison Monkhouse Pty Ltd) and is situated in Mitchell on 16 acres/6.47 hectares,” Stephen said.

“It was officially opened on 11 July 1966 and the first cremation took place on 13 July 1966. To date close to 46,200 cremations have been performed. Norwood Park is Canberra’s only crematorium.

“The Memorial Park is a historically significant site and was awarded the Canberra Medallion in 1968 by the ACT Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects and in 1997 it was awarded a 25 Year Award, for sustained architectural excellence. In 2000 the Centenary Room was opened providing the option of catering after a service.

“Norwood Park provides a beautiful and tranquil setting for a memorial to remember your loved one, it is a place which brings comfort to family and friends who have lost people dear to them.

“The chapel design which allows the flow of light through the glass walls offers a calming atmosphere to farewell a loved one. In recent years, the addition of large screens inside and outside enables photos to be displayed during the service.

“Norwood Park’s gardens are open every day, including public holidays, between sunrise and sunset. Families can purchase memorial reservations directly with Norwood Park.”