Memorial parks are the resting places for the departed.

They serve as a place of remembrance and respect for our loved ones who have passed on.

In a move that has sparked a controversy, a memorial park recently faced severe backlash for what many saw as a lack of respect towards the deceased.

Sydney's Forest Lawn Memorial Park, located in Leppington, announced an 'Open Day' event set for Sunday, 29 March.

The memorial park's open day had several activities in store.

These activities included a kids' scavenger hunt, a petting zoo, and an iPhone photography class.

'Don't miss out on a day full of family fun, community spirit and support for a great cause,' the initial announcement read.

Memorial parks serve as a place for remembrance and reflection. Image Credit: Pexels/RDNE Stock Project

The memorial park's 'Open Day' also highlighted other attractions, such as live music, market stalls, and workshops.

However, days after the announcement, the event was abruptly cancelled.

'Due to the forecast of undue weather conditions for this weekend, unfortunately, we have cancelled the planned Open Day as these conditions could present a risk to park visitors and staff,' the park's social media page shared.

'We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused, and we look forward to inviting the community into the park for future community events.'

While the memorial park cancelled the event due to weather concerns, community members believe otherwise.

The concept of an 'Open Day' at a cemetery was unheard of, as these spaces hold important sites that offer educational opportunities.

However, the balance between respecting the sanctity of a resting place and engaging the community is delicate.

Community members took to social media and expressed their dismay at the perceived insensitivity of hosting an Open Day in the memorial park.

Scott Daly, a Macarthur resident with family members buried at the park, described the situation as a 'monumental stuff up'.

'Their phone system collapsed with the amount of complaints they received,' Mr Daly said.

'Someone has had a complete brain fart and to save face with the predicted rain on Saturday then have shut down the event. Who possibly thought this would be a good idea?'

Mikayla King, another local with loved ones laid to rest in the park, was shocked by the initial announcement.

Ms King contacted the memorial park to share her discomfort about the event.

'You could imagine how shocked I was when I saw the social media post blaming the cancellation on the weather,' Ms King shared.

'It just would have been nice for them to own up to their decision.'

The incident raised important questions about the role of memorial parks in a community and the ways they can engage with the public while still honouring the departed.

While Forest Lawn Memorial Park stated that they host 'many community and cultural events' throughout the year, the controversy underscored the need for sensitivity and transparency when planning events.

Forest Lawn Memorial Park reassured the community that they would always listen to and respect feedback.

Yet, the mixed messages and the initial attempt to divert the reason for cancellation left some residents feeling that the park's management had missed an opportunity to understand the community's sentiments genuinely.

As we reflect on this incident, it's crucial to consider the multifaceted nature of cemeteries and memorial parks.

They are not just places for the dead but also spaces for the living to honour and remember their loved ones.

Key Takeaways

• Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Leppington faced backlash for planning an 'Open Day' with activities deemed disrespectful by the community.
• The cemetery cancelled the event and cited 'weather concerns' despite multiple complaints from the community.
• Community members with loved ones buried at the park expressed shock and disappointment over the planned event.
• Despite the controversial cancellation, Forest Lawn Memorial Park emphasised that they respect community feedback.

What do you think about holding 'Open Days' in memorial parks? Do you believe that cemeteries should remain as solemn places reserved for mourning and remembrance? Your insights are valuable, and we look forward to reading your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.

 

[Iggydi]

Some idiot saw the word Park and thought it would be a good idea to have festivities there without knowing what Memorial meant

 

[Benny's Light]

Having an open day to educate and open up the Memorial Park so people get an understanding of the process of end of life options, what happens and what to do is a good thing. For so long the whole notion of end of life options have been kept somewhat secret and a mystery until when you need it and then you are not really in any state to have to make decisions. Opening up to inform and educate people is a good thing. The notion though of a fair day, carnival and markets probably is not appropriate in the setting. It needs to be in the context of the setting and its purpose.