Shepparton Public Cemetery seek public feedback
By Deanne Jeffers
A ONCE-TIRED looking burial ground in the heart of our community, Shepparton Public Cemetery has undergone remarkable transformation thanks to a dedicated team that are battling Bindi eyes, birds, and snakes to make this a special place to mourn and remember loved ones.
“We’re so grateful to our new groundsmen for all their work,” said Shepparton Public Cemetery Trust (SPCT) chair, Rick Brun. “We have recently finished works on a new vault crypt, and we are proud of our new lawn cemetery, which has been very popular. The first stage was finished two years ago and the second started over 12 months ago. Stage three will go up the grass hill.”
As a not-for-profit, SPCT relies on volunteers and a small maintenance team to care for the historic cemetery, which was the site of Shepparton’s first primary school and today houses over 14,500 graves with room to expand.
Now, with plans for Stage 4 mausoleum upgrades in the pipeline, SPCT is actively seeking community input to ensure further enhancements reflect the wishes of those it serves.
“The mausoleum was funded by Italian community of Shepparton and without the Italian community it would never have happened,” said vice-chairman, Margaret Stewart.
“We are looking to expand the mausoleum, but we would like to hear from the community before starting works to ensure it is aligned with their wishes and long-term vision for the cemetery.”
The mausoleum was opened in 2011 and has undergone Stage 2 and 3 upgrades. With only one mausoleum plot still available within its marble walls, Stage 4 will add a further 72 plots, with works expected to cost close to $1M.
“The cemetery was opened almost 150 years ago, and we want to make sure it continues to serve the community for another 150-years, so it is important we hear from those that are interested or have a connection here,” said Rick.
SPCT welcomes community feedback by visiting their office at 5 Rudd Street, calling 5821 2289, or emailing sheppcemetery@hotmail.com. Office hours are 9am to 2pm and Shepparton Public Cemetery is open to visitors during daylight hours.
