Five cemeteries across Western Victoria will share in over $22,000 as part of an $832,000 state-wide investment by the Andrews Labor Government to ensure the final resting places of our loved ones are maintained in a respectful manner.
Announcing the grants, the Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said the funds would be used to improve facilities at the five cemeteries.
The funding includes:
- $8,000 for Scotts Creek Cemetery Trust for an information board and to replace the gate
- $5,000 for Macarthur Cemetery Trust for tree removal
- $4,290 for Nirranda Cemetery Trust for a storage container
- $4,123 for Teesdale Cemetery Trust for fencing
- $800 for Nelson Cemetery Trust for the purchase of a computer, printer and hard drive
The five grants are amongst 70 grants across Victoria – most of them to small rural cemeteries – that will help provide much-needed equipment or assist with carrying out maintenance projects.
The state’s cemeteries offer many unique insights into how Victoria has grown and developed.
The grants program helps Cemetery Trusts, the vast majority of which are run by volunteers, who maintain and improve cemetery facilities, so they can be utilised by many generations to come.
The general maintenance work, facility renovations and purchase or upgrade of essential equipment will help to ensure the cemetery grounds are safe for staff and visitors.
Works will also focus on public health and safety, improving record keeping and maintaining infrastructure.
The grants recognise the significance a cemetery holds within local communities, and the need to keep the facilities well maintained and make them as welcoming as possible.
Quotes attributable to Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“The Andrews Labor Government recognises the tireless work of local, volunteer-run trusts and their need for extra support to maintain our cemeteries.”
“In many cases local cemeteries provide a snapshot of the history and growth of Victoria so it’s important they are not neglected.”
“Family and friends deserve to be surrounded by a pleasant environment when saying goodbye to a loved one or visiting a grave, and this funding will ensure that happens at the Scotts Creek, Macarthur, Nelson, Nirranda and Teesdale cemeteries.”