The Practical Doula

The Practical Doula End of life doula. Compassionate end-of-life planning and support. Melanie Cookes and team are here to guide and support you.

💭 Did you know that a loved one does not always have to go directly from the Coroner's care to a funeral service?In some...
12/06/2026

💭 Did you know that a loved one does not always have to go directly from the Coroner's care to a funeral service?

In some circumstances, families may choose to bring their loved one home or hold vigil in a place that is meaningful to them before the funeral.

For many people, this can create space for quiet goodbyes, cultural or spiritual practices, gathering family together, or simply slowing things down during an incredibly tender time.

🌿 There is often more choice than people realise.

If you'd like to learn more about after-death care options and family-led farewells in Victoria, The Practical Doula is happy to help.

Thanks for such a enriching evening!  Sarah from Victorian Nurse Practitioner Services  was such an engaging speaker and...
12/06/2026

Thanks for such a enriching evening! Sarah from Victorian Nurse Practitioner Services was such an engaging speaker and it was fabulous to connect with like-minded, service-oriented, guests.

Thanks Melbourne’s South East End-of-Life Doula Hub - looking forward to working together to support our communities.

💛 "They wanted to be involved."Recently, I received a call from the spouse of a person approaching the end of life at ho...
11/06/2026

💛 "They wanted to be involved."

Recently, I received a call from the spouse of a person approaching the end of life at home.

What they wanted was simple. When the time came, they wanted to gently wash, shave and dress their loved one themselves.

The next morning, after a peaceful death at home, we did exactly that. Together.
There was no rush. No pressure. Just time, tenderness and one final act of care.
Sometimes caring doesn't end at death.

Sometimes love continues through the simple acts of washing a face, buttoning a shirt and sitting quietly together.

My latest blog shares this gentle story and explores some of the choices families may have after a loved one dies.

🌿 Here’s the link: https://www.practicaldoula.com.au/blog/one-final-act-of-care

A brilliant night of bold ideas and inspiring founders!We had a fantastic time attending Eastern Innovation’s Pitch Nigh...
05/06/2026

A brilliant night of bold ideas and inspiring founders!

We had a fantastic time attending Eastern Innovation’s Pitch Night last Tuesday, May 26. It was an incredible evening filled with networking, great conversation, and forward-thinking innovation. Six amazing businesses took the stage to pitch to an expert panel after undergoing dedicated mentoring.

Join us here and let's talk!
04/06/2026

Join us here and let's talk!

Death is part of life — yet so many of us rarely have space to talk about it.

The Death / Life Café, hosted by the Melbourne East Doula Hub, offers a gentle and supportive environment to explore conversations around death, grief, caregiving, meaning, and what matters most.

Join us on Friday 12 June at Selby Community House for connection, reflection, and community. 💛

All are welcome.

Book here: https://www.selbyhouse.org.au/class/death-life-cafe-hosted-by-melbourne-east-doula-hub-6/

Death is part of life — yet so many of us rarely have space to talk about it.The Death / Life Café, hosted by the Melbou...
29/05/2026

Death is part of life — yet so many of us rarely have space to talk about it.

The Death / Life Café, hosted by the Melbourne East Doula Hub, offers a gentle and supportive environment to explore conversations around death, grief, caregiving, meaning, and what matters most.

Join us on Friday 12 June at Selby Community House for connection, reflection, and community. 💛

All are welcome.

Book here: https://www.selbyhouse.org.au/class/death-life-cafe-hosted-by-melbourne-east-doula-hub-6/

“Bringing a loved one home after death can feel overwhelming — but it can also be deeply meaningful. 💛This latest blog e...
27/05/2026

“Bringing a loved one home after death can feel overwhelming — but it can also be deeply meaningful. 💛

This latest blog explores the practical steps, emotional considerations, and support available for families in Victoria who wish to care for their person at home after death. A gentle reminder that there is no one ‘right’ way to say goodbye — only the way that feels right for you and your loved one.

Read more here: https://www.practicaldoula.com.au/blog/bringing-loved-one-home-victoria?utm_source=chatgpt.com

What is Advance Care Planning, and why is it important?Advance Care Planning (ACP) ensures that your values, beliefs, an...
21/05/2026

What is Advance Care Planning, and why is it important?

Advance Care Planning (ACP) ensures that your values, beliefs, and healthcare preferences are known and respected if you are ever unable to speak for yourself. It’s an essential step in planning for the future, ensuring your loved ones are supported and informed.

We are hosting an ACP Workshop at VSNH to guide you through the process step-by-step.

👇 Details & Registration:
Click the link to learn more and book your seat: https://www.vsnh.org.au/courses/advance-care-planning-(acp)-workshops

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Melbourne, VIC
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