Shepparton Public Cemetery’s revival

By Djembe Archibald

Aug 24, 2023

Lush: The grass has been cleared up at Shepparton Public Cemetery. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Bindiis and weeds covered the floor of Shepparton Public Cemetery, disrupting the experiences of those wishing to visit loved ones.

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Australian summers are infamous for many reasons, one of those being that the ground becomes a violent mass, with prickles, bindiis and weeds taking control of the grass.

History: Shepparton Public Cemetery’s first burial was in 1876. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

The cemetery has dealt with nature’s force; however, a recent clean-up has turned the tide.

With three new gardening staff and support from the local community, the cemetery has had many upgrades, with more in the works.

Fresh look: Three new gardeners have worked on the cemetery’s beautification. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

“I would love the public to come and have a look around to see the dedication of the trust and the workers,” cemetery chairperson Margaret Stewart said.

“We [the trust] are so proud of how it looks and so are the workers, and you can see that reflected in the cemetery’s appearance.”

The cemetery is a not-for-profit, independently run by a trust made up of local volunteers.

Some 14,500 people are buried in the cemetery, with graves dating to 1876.

Shepparton Public Cemetery is open during daylight hours and is located at 5 Rudd St, Shepparton.