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Talking about death isn’t something most of us do easily — but a growing community movement is trying to change that, one cup of tea at a time.
A “Death Cafe” is a warm, welcoming gathering where people come together to chat openly about death, dying and life itself. Traditionally held in relaxed settings over coffee, cake and conversation, there’s no formal agenda, no lectures and no pressure to speak — just a safe space to listen, share and reflect. Hawkesbury's death cafe definitely has cake yet the coffee might just be an espresso martini! Collaborating with Kerryn and Ori Mattioli from Ori's Bar, Lisa from The Crones Canopy believes in locals supporting locals and loves the intimate setting in the old building at Ori's. It is locals and businesses coming together to support our community.
The idea began in 2011, inspired by Swiss sociologist Bernard Crettaz, and has since spread around the world, including here in Australia.
Locally, Hawkesbury's Death Cafe will be held at Ori’s Bar, 117 George Street, Windsor, starting at 6:30pm this coming Wednesday the 29th April 2026, offering residents a chance to be part of this meaningful conversation. And with palliative care week fast approaching, this is a perfect space to start!
Far from being morbid, Death Cafes are about normalising an often-avoided topic. Supporters say these conversations are most powerful when they happen well before they’re needed — giving people time to share their wishes, ease uncertainty for loved ones and approach the future with greater confidence.
By opening up the discussion, Death Cafes aim to build stronger, more compassionate communities — and remind us to make the most of the time we have.
