Updates To Improve South Rockhampton Cemetery

Cr Rutherford with Council staff Tahlei Richardson and Zac Tomkins (1 of 1).jpg

Rockhampton Regional Council is continuing drainage and landscaping improvements at South Rockhampton Cemetery, with a long-term goal of reopening the site to accommodate more burials in the coming years.

Parks, Sports and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said the upgrades are essential for stabilising the area and protecting existing graves, enabling Council to establish more than 200 new burial plots in an unused section previously impacted by drainage issues.

"We're mindful of the cemetery's age, so the upgrade works have carefully balanced heritage preservation with thoughtful revitalisation," Cr Rutherford said.

"Upgrade works in the southwest corner began earlier this year, and we have now progressed into the landscaping phase.

More than 7,000 plants will be planted, ranging from tube stock to larger trees which, once established, will appear native to the site.

"It's been all hands-on deck when the plants were delivered onsite, with the majority of stock being sourced from local nurseries," Cr Rutherford said.

"The plants will take approximately 12 weeks to establish and, during this period, will be vulnerable to heavy rain events so the team has taken extra precautions to give them the best chance of thriving.

"Once established, the plants will not only enhance the visual appeal of the cemetery but also play a crucial functional role in controlling erosion by stabilising the soil and holding the bank together."

The planting follows on from drainage work earlier in the year which included minor excavation to install a new culvert, as well as the construction of several check dams to reduce erosion and protect nearby graves.

"Check dams have been built to slow water flow and safeguard the site, particularly the graves," Cr Rutherford said.

"By trapping sediment and stabilising soil, these engineered structures reduce the erosive force of water, prevent downstream damage, and help manage stormwater runoff effectively."

The drainage and beautification works are some of a few projects needed to be done so Council can ultimately reopen the cemetery in coming years.

"The cemetery has been closed to burials since 1993," Cr Rutherford said.

"Upon completion of the works, we hope to continue making progress towards reopening the cemetery."

Entry via Ferguson Street remains closed for the duration of the project.

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