Endangered pine forest grown with people's cremated ashes opens

A unique memorial forest, Piper's Ridge Sanctuary, has opened in Wallerawang, New South Wales, offering a novel way to remember loved ones by growing critically endangered Wollemi pines infused with cremated ashes. The sanctuary is the first of its kind in the state and part of the Living Legacy Forest network.

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I just felt when I was going there we kept bringing flowers, and then they'd die. It's like this plot, versus the picture and idea of a tree and seeing it continuing to flourish. This is a representation that her life can actually continue on.

Founded by Deborah Fung and Adrian Chen, the forest is a tribute to their 10-year-old daughter, Tegan, who died in an accident in New Zealand in January 2024. The couple has planted over 600 Wollemi pines, a species facing critical endangerment, near the Blue Mountains. They aim to provide a living, flourishing memorial that contrasts with traditional burial sites.

"I just felt when I was going there we kept bringing flowers, and then they'd die," Adrian Chen said. "It's like this plot, versus the picture and idea of a tree and seeing it continuing to flourish. This is a representation that her life can actually continue on."

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Tegan was so full of life, and she was definitely the most tenacious [of our kids]. She loved the outdoors, and she was 100 per cent just living it up and running around.

The sanctuary allows people to dedicate a tree to a loved one, with the option of infusing their ashes. Tegan, described as tenacious and full of life, loved the outdoors and bushwalking. Her parents shared poignant memories of her final day, highlighting her vibrant spirit before the tragic fall into a creek.

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Tegan just came and gave me a big hug, it wasn't just a short hug, I really still remember the warmth of her body.

Emergency services and other walkers attempted to save Tegan after she fell and was swept away by the water. Despite their efforts and CPR administered at the scene, she could not be revived. The sanctuary now stands as a living testament to life, growth, and remembrance.

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I was looking at her, and then I saw her lose her balance and then she fell in. The last thing I said to her was, 'Baby girl, feet first, try and grab a tree.'