Comfort from nautical burials

Docklands’ tall ship Enterprize was out on Port Phillip Bay last month supporting families without the means to give their deceased loved ones a suitable send off.

General manager Michael Womack explained that Enterprize supported Bereavement Assistance by providing an affordable avenue for burials at sea.

“We’ll do this a few times a year, which is a great help for families who don’t really have a lot of options,” Mr Womack said.

“In fact, it would be great if we could, in turn, attract some corporate sponsorship for this worthwhile activity.”

Replete with a piper, scattering ashes from the deck of the Enterprize is a solemn and moving experience.

On May 4, Docklands News photographer Barry Douglas accompanied the voyage.  Barry’s pictures tell a story of tradition, ceremony and solemn respect.

Mr Womack said the Bereavement Assistance program gave great comfort to families at times when they needed it most.

“If anyone wants to help with this, I’d be most pleased to talk with them,” Mr Womack said.

He can be contacted on 0419 520 742.