By XAVIER SMERDON
WORK on a much-needed facelift of the 150-year-old Werribee Cemetery has begun.
The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust announced that it has allocated $170,000 towards a program to beautify the cemetery and seal roads and paths throughout the 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 had 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.”
Ms Tabone apologised to residents for the impact the works may have.
“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,” she said.
Ms Tabone said fixing the footpaths at the cemetery would make a big difference to visitors.
“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,” she said.
The toilet facilities will also be upgraded with funds for that project to be announced in October of this year.
