Caring for the future of Wonthaggi Cemetery

Wonthaggi Cemetery is an historic site with great significance and meaning to the Wonthaggi Community. SMCT is committed to maintaining our cemeteries sustainably to meet community needs now and into the future.

Wonthaggi Cemetery Drainage Improvement Works

SMCT will begin works to improve visitor access and lawn conditions at Wonthaggi Cemetery. To improve grounds conditions, especially during wetter months, we will be trialling approximately 250m of French Drains. French Drains are a small underground trench that collects extra water and carries it away from the surface, making lawn areas accessible for visitors. SMCT has successfully implemented these works to address similar issues at other sites.

The expected outcomes of these works are:

• Reduce water logging after significant rainfall events
• Improved access to monuments during wetter months of the year
• Support safer and more efficient maintenance of the cemetery
• Improve the presentation of the historic areas

The works have been carefully planned to minimise risk to monuments and no impact on interments. Excavations will be shallow and controlled, focusing only on the immediate area required. The works will be carried out by a local contractor and closely overseen by SMCT’s Horticultural Assets Manager to ensure they are undertaken safely, respectfully, and to a high standard of care.

Where the works are happening

We want to address the areas where there have been ongoing drainage challenges as our priority. These areas include:

• Church of England area
• Methodist area
• Presbyterian area
• Roman Catholic area

Managing access during Improvement Works

While works are underway, there may be some temporary and localised access changes around a small number of monuments. These will be carefully managed and all scheduled services will continue as normal. The works are short term and SMCT will take every effort to help minimise disruptions and ensure visitors can continue to move through the cemetery with ease.

Timeline

Works are expected to begin after mid May 2026. The project will take approximately 1 week to complete.

The works have been scheduled to avoid wet weather where possible to ensure this work can be carried out safe and timely manner.