A gathering offers time to share memories, support one another and honour your loved one in a more relaxed setting. Many families find it helps them connect, reflect and begin healing together.
Receptions & gatherings
For almost 100 years, we’ve supported families across Port Macquarie and the Hastings region to plan meaningful receptions and gatherings.
A time to come together
After the service, families often want time to come together, whether it’s a morning tea at a community hall, a sit-down meal or drinks at a local venue. We'll help you arrange a gathering that feels right, handling the details so you can focus on being with loved ones.
What a reception or gathering could look like
There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to planning a reception or gathering. Some families prefer a simple morning tea at our funeral home directly following the service. Others hold a catered lunch, a sit-down dinner, or a casual get-together at a local club, café or community hall.
We’ve coordinated services and gatherings at many different locations over the years, including beach and bush settings, parks, backyards, public venues and sporting facilities.
We can help with:
- Booking venues, either at our Port Macquarie funeral home or a place that’s meaningful to you
- Coordinating catering or refreshments
- Setting up music, photo displays or tribute tables
- Helping manage timing, transport and guest communication
Costs will vary depending on location, catering and the level of support you need. We’ll talk you through your options.
Honouring every story, every culture
Our experience spans many religions, traditions and cultural practices. Whether it’s specific music, prayers, food, rituals or seating arrangements, we’ll help you incorporate the right elements into your gathering.
Here to hold you steady
When everything feels uncertain, we’re here to be the steady ones. Our funeral directors offer clear next steps and quiet support to families across Port Macquarie and the Hastings region.
Not at all. A reception is entirely optional. Some families value the time together, while others prefer a quieter farewell. We’ll support the choice that feels most comfortable and meaningful for you.
You can hold a gathering at a home, community hall, function room, club or local venue. We’ll organise bookings, catering and logistics so the day is seamless and stress-free.
Gatherings can be whatever feels right, whether that's formal, casual or celebratory. Many families choose a relaxed atmosphere with music, stories and personal touches to reflect their loved one’s personality and spirit.
Yes. A gathering welcomes anyone who wants to offer support or share memories, whether or not they attended the service.
There’s no set timeframe. Some gatherings run for an hour, while others continue for an afternoon. We’ll help plan a gathering that suits your family, venue and preferences.
We're ready to help
Speak to a Hastings funeral director
You can contact us any time, day or night.
We’re here to provide calm, practical support when you need it most.