On behalf of the Boards of the Australasian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association (ACCA) and the Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals (OACFP), we are proud to announce the relaunch of the Phoenix Foundry Bereavement Profession Excellence Award—a unique international honour recognising emerging leaders in the bereavement profession.
In proud partnership with Phoenix Foundry, this prestigious award celebrates individuals who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a commitment to professional growth. It also serves as a bridge between the Australian and Canadian bereavement sectors, fostering global understanding and collaboration.
Applications Are Now Open
Applications are officially open and will be accepted until August 22, 2025. Each application must be signed by a senior manager, supervisor, or owner as acknowledgement that they support the applicant’s participation in the program if selected.
We encourage all organisations to identify and nominate rising stars—those who are driving change, inspiring teams, and shaping the future of our industry.
Award Details
Each year, one recipient from ACCA and one from OACFP will be selected to participate in a two-week (10 business day) international exchange program. The ACCA winner will travel to Canada, and the OACFP winner will travel to Australia.
The experience includes:
- Return economy airfare
- All accommodation and meal expenses
- Workplace immersion at host cemetery or funeral organisations
- Visits to key sector locations with a Phoenix Foundry representative
- Complimentary registration to the host Association’s annual conference
- A presentation opportunity to share key learnings with conference attendees
- Engagement with Association leaders to explore cross-country collaboration
- Optional vacation extension at the participant’s own cost
Award Criteria
Nominees should meet one or more of the following:
- Demonstrated leadership through achievements in their current role
- Use of innovation in developing or improving a product or service
- Delivery of superior results through change implementation
- Willingness to share knowledge, teach others, and engage in broader professional development
- Active support and participation in their Association’s initiatives
Why Apply?
This award is not just about recognition—it’s about opportunity. Recipients will gain:
- International insight into operational differences and shared challenges
- Professional development through hands-on learning, public speaking, and leadership exposure
- New networks, colleagues, and friends
- A broader, more global perspective of the bereavement sector
Hear From Our Previous Winners
Past recipients Kassie Hudson (Arbor Memorial) and David Welton (Townsville Council Cemeteries) exemplify the power of this exchange. Their journeys offered invaluable insights into each country’s sector, including cultural traditions, service delivery models, and shared challenges.
Both Kassie and David described the program as a transformational experience, offering new perspectives and a deepened appreciation of the bereavement profession across borders.
Apply Now and Be Part of Something Bigger
The Phoenix Foundry Bereavement Profession Excellence Award is more than an accolade—it’s an investment in your future and in the international strength of our sector.
Nominate a deserving colleague or submit your own application before August 22, 2025.
For full application details, see the attached Nomination form, or visit the ACCA or OACFP website or contact your Association directly.
Download the eNomination form HERE.
Proudly supported by Phoenix Foundry – crafting quality bronze memorials with passion, purpose, and pride for over 30 years.