The Peninsula Home Hospice (PHH) catchment is vast, spanning two entire local government areas and part of another: the City of Frankston, Mornington Peninsula Shire, and the City of Kingston south of Mordialloc Creek. While the Mornington Peninsula has a higher-than-average proportion of older residents, the reality is that—regardless of age—at some point we will all face the death or serious illness or devastatingly, a sudden death of a partner, friend, or family member.

Given the inevitability of death, it is surprising how little we talk about it. There can be a sense that discussing death is unlucky, morbid, or unhealthy. Dying to Know Day exists to challenge this stigma and encourage open, honest conversations about death, dying, and grief.

The 2025 Dying to Know Day event was proudly supported by Mornington Peninsula Shire through its Positive Ageing Team. PHH values this partnership as a meaningful way to engage with the local community and to raise awareness of the services and resources available to support people in planning ahead for end of life.

“It’s your life and your legacy, so let’s talk about it.”

Participants described the day as informative, energising, and motivating. Attendees were encouraged to take away just one idea and turn it into action—whether that meant starting a conversation, making a plan, or seeking further information.

The 2025 Speakers

Joey Kim from the Peninsula Health Advance Care Planning Team shared practical guidance on how to document and communicate end-of-life wishes with family and loved ones. This free service is available to local residents and includes the option of a face-to-face appointment.

Carly Dalton from Greenhaven Funerals provided an objective overview of funeral planning options. These ranged from cardboard coffins decorated by grandchildren, to wicker baskets or caskets with gold-plated handles. Funeral locations can be just as personal, including backyards or paddocks—not only churches or funeral homes. The message was clear: funerals do not need to follow a formula. They can be individual, meaningful, and low cost.

Liz Stillwell, who has supported many people through death and grief, spoke about the importance of open and compassionate conversations. She explored how meaningful connections can be maintained when someone is dying, and how simply starting the conversation—without waiting for the “right time”—can make a profound difference.

A Shared Goal

The intention of the day was that participants left with increased knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to navigate death, dying, and bereavement.

Dying to Know Day events are held across Australia, supported by the work of The Groundswell Project, all sharing the same objective: to normalise conversations about death and empower people to plan ahead.

More Information

• FREE Advance Care Planning services
  Peninsula Health Advance Care Planning
  Call 1300 665 781 to make an appointment
• Register interest for Dying to Know Day 2026
  Email: admin@peninsulahospice.com.au
  Phone: 5973 2400
• Background on Dying to Know Day
  Visit: www.thegroundswellproject.com