Preserving the Peace and Dignity of Our Cemetery
Published on Friday, 3 October 2025 at 11:30:52 AM
Many in our community hold a deep connection to the local cemetery - a place where loved ones are remembered, honoured, and visited in quiet reflection. Over the years, it has been a space of peace and significance for countless families.
It’s with genuine care and consideration that we advise the community of changes to vehicle access at the cemetery. This decision has not been made lightly, but it has become necessary to preserve the dignity, safety, and condition of this special site.
In recent years, there has unfortunately been a growing number of incidents involving damage and misuse of the cemetery grounds. These include:
- Vehicles damaging headstones and garden beds while attempting U-turns
- Removal of sand from gravesites
- New reticulation systems and rose gardens being driven over
- Recreational vehicles camping in the cemetery over weekends
- Dogs and horses fouling the grounds and monuments
- Visitors driving over sacred denominational sections to reach plots
While we know that most people visit with great respect, the actions of a few have led to increasing damage—not only to physical infrastructure, but to the sense of care and reverence the cemetery deserves.
To help protect the cemetery for current and future generations, the Shire has closed the main vehicle gates. A pedestrian access gate will remain open at all times for those visiting on foot.
Access for Those Who Need It
We understand this change may affect some elderly or mobility-impaired members of our community. If you need vehicle access, we are more than happy to help. Simply contact the Shire office the day before your visit (Monday to Friday) on 08 9761 0800, and we will arrange for the gates to be opened for you.
We will continue to support occasional weekend access where needed, especially for families attending to a gravesite. Please call us on 08 9761 0800 to discuss these arrangements if required.
Respecting a Shared Space
The Cemetery By-law, which has been in place for over 25 years, does not allow unauthorised vehicle access. While we have not previously needed to enforce it, the current level of misuse means we must take steps to preserve this important place.
We appreciate that for many in our community, the cemetery is more than just a place - it holds memories, love, and loss. We’re grateful for your understanding and support as we work to restore and maintain its peace and sanctity.
If you have questions or wish to discuss access, please contact the Shire on 08 9761 0800 or BTN@bridgetown.wa.gov.au .
Together, we can ensure this place of remembrance remains respected and cared for.