The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) has commenced work
on upgrading the infrastructure and landscape of Western
Melbourne's 150 year old historic Werribee Cemetery. The
GMCT have allocated $170,000 towards a program to beautify the
cemetery and seal roads and paths throughout the 5.5 hectare
historic site. In March 2010, Werribee Cemetery came under
the care of the GMCT after a planned merger of 18 cemeteries across
metropolitan Melbourne. The Trust is responsible for the upkeep and
maintenance of each site. The GMCT's Client Services Manager
- West, Tanya Tabone said the beautification plans have long been
anticipated by the local community, especially those who visit the
cemetery on a regular basis. "The Trust has allocated
$170,000 towards upgrades needed at the cemetery," Ms Tabone said.
"Werribee Cemetery's office, machinery shed and mausoleum will
undergo refurbishment. This is expected to be completed by the end
of August." "The biggest task facing Werribee Cemetery will
be the sealing of the cemetery's many roads and paths, the majority
of which are currently covered in loose gravel. Depending on
weather conditions, we hope to have the surface sealing completed
by early spring." "Replanting, pruning and botanical
landscaping will be undertaken throughout the cemetery, while
landscaping work will be carried out adjacent to the cemetery
office building with the proposal to include a rose garden and lawn
area." "The GMCT is aware that using heavy machinery
throughout the cemetery may cause distress to some visitors and the
Trust apologises unreservedly. We will attempt to keep the impact
to a minimum across the cemetery during the period of
improvements," Ms Tabone said. Further funding has been
allocated by the Trust to upgrade the existing toilet facilities at
Werribee Cemetery. These funds will be released in October 2012.
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