Sutherland Shire’s death cafes are back and attendees said there were lots of interesting conversations and ideas, at the first one, held last night.

The popular death cafes are back, thanks to a grant from Sutherland Shire to South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, partnering with St George and Sutherland Community College in Jannali.

The first in the new series was held on October 18. There will be another one on November 18 and then the rest will run in 2024. (Who said this year’s gone really fast!)

“It was an excellent turnout of 18,” said Jo McIlveen, organiser and Grief and Bereavement Coordinator for South Eastern Sydney Local Health District.

 “Many insightful and broad conversations about death, dying and grief from like minded people,” she added.

The feedback was great.

Responses showed a real need for the conversation.

“Loved this. Very first cafe for me. Lovely atmosphere and felt safe and sharing.”

October 18 Sutherland Death Cafe attendee

They are cosy, sharing and fun. And there’s a cuppa and cakes.

Join us at the next Sutherland Death Cafe.

The death cafes will continue at the St George and Sutherland Community College, 127 Sutherland Rd, Jannali.

Good Grief! will confirm dates and share updates closer to the time. But if you’d like more information in the meantime, just get in touch with us. Good Grief’s Margaret Rice will be a facilitator. You can also check in with the Sutherland Council Event’s page or contact South Eastern Sydney Health District’s Grief and Bereavement Social Work Service.

Dying is a big experience, and only a small part is medical.