Family seeks help to restore ancestors’ grave

By Lua Ikenasio

Jan 23, 2025

William and Eliza Kiely's grave in Echuca is in need of some care. Photo: Supplied.

Kerry and Peter Eustace will be making a trip to Echuca next month in hopes of carrying out restoration works on their ancestors’ gravesite.

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The couple have had a strong interest in researching their family history for over 35 years, and recently uncovered the burial place of Kerry’s great-great-grandparents, William and Eliza Kiely.

They are now putting a call-out to the local community for any living family members of the Kielys to join them in their clean up efforts from Thursday, February 27 to Friday, February 28.

William and Eliza Kiely first migrated to Port Adelaide from Ireland in 1850 with their four children.

After giving birth to another child in 1852, the family then embarked on a three-year journey by river and drayman to Bacchus Marsh.

The family lived in Bacchus Marsh for a few years and had four more children before moving to Echuca in the late 1970s to take on ownership of The Ballarat Hotel, which stood where the Mercure Hotel stands today.

The couple also operated a blacksmith in Moama and had their own farmlands.

Mr Kiely died in 1882 and Mrs Kiely followed three years later and were buried at the Echuca cemetery.

Over the years, the gravesite has deteriorated and is now in need of a good clean and repair.

If any family members of the Kielys are interested in taking part, please contact Kerry Eustace on 0421 334 826