Metropolitan Cemeteries Board in Perth, Western Australia | Cemetery

Metropolitan Cemeteries Board

Locality: Perth, Western Australia

Phone: +61 1300 793 109

Address: Railway Road 6010 Perth, WA, Australia

Website: http://www.mcb.wa.gov.au

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25.01.2022 Funerals and reducing the spread of COVID-19 For specific information regarding guidelines that apply to metropolitan cemeteries we would ask that you visit our website for the most up to date information: www.mcb.wa.gov.au

25.01.2022 Tree planting across MCB cemeteries Trees are an essential part of the cemetery environment, providing aesthetic value, shade, food and habitat for local fauna. Autumn and winter is the main tree planting seasons at the MCB and each year thousands of trees and shrubs are planted across our cemeteries. To date, this year 500 trees and 3000 shrubs of varying species and sizes have been planted to maintain the greening of our cemeteries. Trees and shrubs are also a unique and individual way to memorialise a loved one. If you would like more information about memorials please call Client Services on 1300 793 109.

25.01.2022 Sir David Brand On this day in 1979 Western Australia’s longest serving Premier passed away, four short years after retiring from politics. David Brand left school at 14 to work on the family farm in Dongara. After serving in the Australia Imperial Forces during the second World War, Brand became the first member of the newly formed Liberal Party to serve in an Australian parliament, in 1945.... Serving four terms as the 19th Premier of Western Australia from 1959 1971, Brand presided over one of WA’s most prosperous periods of development during the mining-pastoral boom of the 1960s. He was responsible for overseeing the mining expansion in the Pilbara, the development of a major iron export industry, the establishment of a refinery in Kwinana Industrial area and funding for the Ord River Dam in the Kimberley. In 1984 the Federal Division of Brand was named in his honour as well as Brand Highway, Sir David Brand Primary School in Coolbinia and the Sir David Brand Award and Medal for Tourism. To read more about Sir David Brand’s accomplishments go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//karrakatta-historical-walk-trai

25.01.2022 Main Driveway at Karrakatta Cemetery Our Client Services staff often receive enquiries about whether the public are permitted to use the front entrance on Railway Road. The main entrance is ONLY for cortege vehicles. The entrance is signposted, warning patrons not to enter. There is no exit from this entrance and it needs to remain clear for funeral cars to enter. There can often be more than one funeral procession entering the area during the same period. Please adhere to the signs and DO NOT ENTER the main driveway. This is reserved for FUNERAL CARS only.

24.01.2022 Our cemeteries and memorial parks are a great leisure option for residents of the area, however when walking your dog, please be sure to keep it on a lead within the cemetery grounds. Our cemeteries are a public place and we need to be mindful of all visitors to the area. Please also be aware of staying a safe distance from wildlife such as birds and kangaroos.

24.01.2022 Bird enthusiasts, bird watchers and those that enjoy the freedom that birds represent, the MCB has a regular display of bird themed urns available at Karrakatta, Pinnaroo, Fremantle and Rockingham. These adult size urns will generally hold the full amount of a loved one’s ashes. Come and view the range or call Client Services on 1300 793 109 to make an enquiry.

23.01.2022 Fremantle is blooming! Roses are in full bloom at Fremantle Cemetery and displaying a spectacular array of spring flourish. Glorious pastel blooms are on display in Sainsbury Rose Gardens, Jameson Rose Garden, Amongst The Roses, around the Chapel Precinct and the Lakes Area Memorial Gardens. Rose memorials are a popular choice for memorialisation of a loved one. For enquiries about the rose memorial options available please call Client Services on 1300 793 109.

23.01.2022 Collecting a loved one’s ashes can be an overwhelming time for families. To make the process easier, it is important to know what you will need to bring. Identification will need to be provided in the form of a Driver’s License or another form of ID that contains your name, address and signature. Collection can usually be arranged within 48 hours of the cremation taking place. If you are not the Administrator for the ashes, a letter from the Administrator will need to be sign...ed and provided along with your ID. If these checks are not satisfied, we cannot allow for the ashes to be collected. A selection of urns and jewellery are on display at each of our offices at Pinnaroo, Karrakatta, Fremantle and Rockingham and can be viewed during the visit. Alternatively, a range of urns can be viewed on our website at https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au/cremation-memorials/urns prior to collecting ashes. For more information regarding collection, please call 1300 793 109 for assistance.

22.01.2022 COMING SOON! Fremantle Cemetery has a newly created memorial garden in Lawn W honoring the maritime tradition of the port city. Gage Landing Memorial Gardens will offer Memorial Seats, Garden of Remembrance and Ground Niche Memorials along the meandering path. The name derives from Rear-Admiral Sir William Hall Gage, a name synonymous with the maritime history of the port city. If you would like to register your interest please call Client Services at Fremantle on 1300 793 109.

21.01.2022 All Souls Mass at Karrakatta and Fremantle Cemeteries The tradition of All Souls Mass will continue this November with a slight difference to the usual format. Due to COVID-19 restrictions still in place we welcome all to attend, however ask that social distancing is practiced by all parishioners to keep everyone safe. If you are feeling unwell on the day, we ask that you do not attend. The masses will be held at the following times:... All Souls Mass Karrakatta Mausoleum Sunday 1 November 10am All Souls Mass Fremantle West Chapel Monday 2 November 6pm For those who cannot attend the mass, or prefer to stay away at this time, live streaming of each mass will be available by logging onto https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au/graves-mausoleums/mausoleums/mass at the commencement time of each mass. The MCB appreciates your understanding during these challenging times.

21.01.2022 Sir Walter Murdoch died on this day in 1970. Born in Scotland, he migrated to Victoria in 1884 with his family and later moved to Perth in 1913, becoming an integral part of Western Australian life. Walter Logie Forbes Murdoch was a founding Professor of English and former Chancellor of The University of Western Australia, being knighted for his services in 1964. WAs second state university was named in his honour shortly before his death. To discover more about the great-uncle of media mogul Rupert Murdoch, go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//karrakatta-historical-walk-trai

21.01.2022 Springtime Warning Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park springs into action at this time of the year with recreational and leisure activities. It is also home to a variety of birds, reptiles and kangaroos. As the warm weather approaches, please be aware of swooping magpies in the park. The warmer weather serves as a timely reminder to be aware of snakes when attending funerals or partaking in leisure activities. While snakes are generally deterred by the presence of large group...s of people, it is important to be aware of your surroundings when visiting the park. The activity of ticks at PVMP also tends to increase at this time of the year. Whilst the MCB sprays to reduce the numbers of tick population, the significant kangaroo population in the park inevitably brings the unavoidable presence of ticks. Visitors to the park can take precautionary measures by spraying insect repellant before entering the grounds, to avoid taking home an unexpected passenger.

21.01.2022 Fremantle Cemetery roadworks ANZAC Day long weekend As part of the on-going works for the High Street Upgrade, 24 hour roadworks is being undertaken between Carrington and Wilkinson Streets. These works will commence 7pm Friday 23 April until 5am Tuesday 27 April. These works will involve closures and detours that will impact traffic to and from Fremantle Cemetery as follows:... The intersection of Carrington Street, Leach Highway and High Street will be closed to traffic travelling north and south. Vehicles travelling westbound on Leach Highway can turn left into Carrington Street. Vehicles travelling east on High Street cannot turn left or right at Carrington Street. Detours via Stock Road. Vehicles travelling east and west on High Street will be reduced to one lane in both directions between Wilkinson Street and 200m east of the intersection. Traffic management and speed reductions will be in place. Cemetery Main Entrance Access Please see the map below with details regarding how to access the Cemetery main entrance. Carrington Street will be closed between Sainsbury Road and Leach Highway/High Street, however Fremantle Cemetery vehicles and visitors will have access to the main Cemetery entrance off Carrington Street (travelling north). For more information about the project go to https://www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/projects.

21.01.2022 Remedial work will commence this week on the Agonis trees lining the path of Bill Manners Walk. As well as pruning of the trees, removal of aging trees will also be undertaken. For safety reasons, this area will be closed while this work is in progress. Bill Manners will be replenished with new varieties of trees in the coming months.

20.01.2022 Keep your contact details current Getting families to keep their contact details up to date is a constant challenge for the MCB. As family members pass, families need to check with MCB to ensure contact details are current. A quick call to one of our friendly staff can provide reassurance that we have the correct contact details in our database. For more information go to: www.mcb.wa.gov.au/update-your-contact-details or call 1300 793 109.

20.01.2022 Collecting the Ashes of a Loved One Collection of a loved ones ashes can usually be arranged within 48 hours of the cremation taking place. Upon collection, identification will need to be provided in the form of a Drivers Licence or another form of ID that contains your name, address and signature. If you are not the Administrator for the ashes, a letter from the Administrator will need to be signed and provided along with your ID. If these checks are not satisfied, we ca...nnot allow for the ashes to be collected. A selection of urns are on display and available for purchase from our offices at Pinnaroo, Karrakatta, Fremantle and Rockingham. A Client Services staff member can assist with the transfer of ashes to the urn, however please allow 24 hours for this process to occur. If you have any queries regarding collection, please call 1300 793 109 and a Client Services officer will be able to assist.

20.01.2022 Rockingham Regional Memorial Park Located on Baldivis Road in Baldivis, Administration is open 8.30am 3.30pm weekdays for enquiries, memorial appointments and to view the range of urns on display. Please note the office is closed between 12.30 1pm each day.

19.01.2022 Today is a significant day on the calendar for any AC/DC fan. The first stop on the Fremantle Heritage Trail, this memorial is the most frequented in the cemetery. Thousands of patrons make the pilgrimage to Bon Scotts memorial each year. Ronald Belford Scott was born on this day 74 years ago in Scotland. As numbers to the area significantly increase during anniversaries, visitors are asked to respect the cemetery environment and consider those visiting other memorials in this area. Please leave the location tidy and place litter in the bins provided. For more information about Bon Scott or other fascinating characters on the Fremantle Cemetery Walk Trail go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//fremantle-c/heritage-walk-trail

18.01.2022 Kangaroos in the Park Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park is a popular destination for visitors to view the Western Grey kangaroo within the park. International visitors make the most of the opportunity to observe our iconic marsupial within the metropolitan area. Kangaroos are wild animals that co-habitat in the park and feed off the surrounding natural vegetation. Please be reminded not to feed the kangaroos. The kangaroos are mostly observed around dawn and dusk.

17.01.2022 Safety in our Cemeteries This is a timely reminder for all visitors to Look, Lock and Leave when parking your car within the cemetery grounds, report suspicious behaviour to MCB staff or police, and be mindful of your surroundings and personal safety. Unfortunately break-ins and theft from vehicles at our cemeteries are regularly reported. To read about what the MCB does to help create a safer cemetery environment, head to our website http://www.mcb.wa.gov.au/our/staying-safe-in-our-cemeteries

17.01.2022 Felon or Folk Hero? Tomorrow marks the day one of Australias most notorious gunmen Shiner Ryan died in 1957. Ernest Alexander Shiner Ryan was the first criminal in Australian history to use a motor vehicle in a getaway. He was incarcerated in three Australian State prisons and served three stints in Fremantle Prison by age 50. Shiner was born in Adelaide in 1886, starting his criminal career at age 15 with a larceny flogging. His crimes ranged from receiving stolen goo...ds to housebreaking and armed robbery. During World War Two, Ryan went straight. His generosity with residents of misfortune made him a Fremantle folk hero. To read more about Shiner Ryan or other fascinating characters on Fremantle Cemeterys Heritage Walk Trail go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//fremantle-c/heritage-walk-trail. If you would like to walk the trail at Fremantle Cemetery, collect a brochure from Administration to guide you along the trail and use your smart phone to find more information from the QR code at each location.

17.01.2022 What is an unattended cremation? Unattended cremation occurs when there is no service arranged for a loved one or the service has been organised elsewhere. The coffin is delivered to the cemetery unattended, for the process of cremation. This option involves minimal charges. If a viewing of the charging (cremation) is requested, a service is then required to be booked, as a Funeral Director needs to be in attendance. Each cremation booking includes one hour free in any of our metropolitan cemetery chapels.

17.01.2022 The Legend of Moondyne Joe Known more for his great escapes than his crimes, Moondyne Joe as he became known, started his criminal career in Wales in 1849 with an arrest for breaking into a home and stealing food. Joseph Bolitho Johns served four years in the British penal system before being transported on the Pyrenees convict ship to Fremantle. On arrival, rewarded for good behaviour, Johns received a ticket of leave and settled in Moondyne Springs near Toodyay. ... He would round up stray horses and return them to their owners for a fee. As suspicion and the number of stray horses grew, Johns was jailed for stealing a horse. After his escape on the same horse he was jailed for stealing, Johns gradually gained more notoriety for his many escapes. Moondyne Joes greatest escape came from a specially strengthened cell in Fremantle Prison. On this day in 1900, Johns died in Fremantle Lunatic Asylum after developing dementia. Take a stroll along Fremantle Cemeterys Heritage Trail and discover the meaning behind the inscription on Moondynes tombstone. To find out more about WAs best known bushranger go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//fremantle-cemetery-heritage-wal

17.01.2022 Who remembers the iconic Boans Department Store in Perth? Henry "Harry" Boan was a founding brother of the original Boan Bros. department store in the heart of Perth. In 1895 Harry and his brother Benjamin travelled from the east coast to start up the business Boan Bros. on the outskirts of the city near the Perth train station. By the 1930s, Boans was the largest private employer in Western Australia. In 1986, Boans closed its doors after more than a century of stocking lo...cally produced goods. Harry died on this day in 1941 and can be found on Walk Trail One of Karrakatta Historical Trails. Read more about Harrys life and other prominent leaders at https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//karrakatta-historical-walk-trai

17.01.2022 Caring for Keepsake Jewellery Keepsake pendants are made from precious metals, and shouldnt be worn when showering, swimming or sleeping. Perfumes, cosmetics, airborne chemicals and certain skin types can affect the surface of this jewellery. Tarnishing is not a sign of inferior quality, rather a character of genuine Sterling Silver. If your jewellery has tarnished, try cleaning with a soft polishing cloth. In the instance where the cloth does not remove the tarnish, try ...a quality jewellery cleaning solution to bring back the shine. An information sheet about Caring for Jewellery is available for collection from reception at Karrakatta, Pinnaroo, Fremantle and Rockingham.

16.01.2022 Karrakatta Office CLOSED Saturday 15 May Karrakatta Administration will not be open on Saturday 15 May 2021. Collection of ashes will not be possible on this day. The MCB apologises for any inconvenience caused. Karrakatta’s regular office hours are ... Monday to Friday 8.30am 5.00pm and Saturday 8.30am 12.30pm See more

15.01.2022 NEW Infinity Urn Infinite White can be utilised as a companion urn, holding combined ashes together as one. Made from the highest quality clay, this ceramic urn is available in medium and large. The medium will hold 2.1L and the large has capacity for 3.8L. Come and view our range of urns at Karrakatta, Pinnaroo, Fremantle and Rockingham offices.

14.01.2022 NEW Leather Keepsake Bracelets A recent addition to our range is the new keepsake leather bracelets allowing for a token amount of ashes to hold close in a teardrop compartment. Made from stainless steel and leather, the Belgium designed bracelet is available in black, cognac, petrol, navy and oyster leather options in small 15-16cm and medium 17-18cm sizes. The bracelet includes a magnetic closure and is on display at our Karrakatta and Pinnaroo offices.

14.01.2022 Celeste Cafes NOW OPEN The cafes at Fremantle and Karrakatta Cemeteries and Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park are open and operating in accordance with social distancing restrictions currently in place. The cafes are open Monday to Friday from 9.00am 1.45pm, with the exception of an earlier closing time of 1.15pm on Wednesday. ... Celeste Cafes offer a selection of cakes and light refreshments for dine-in or takeaway and fresh flowers daily. To enquire about catering, please call 1300 372 774 or email [email protected].

12.01.2022 Searching for a loved ones final resting place? While COVID-19 restrictions are still in place and social distancing is a daily practice, the MCB is making the search for a loved one easier within the comfort of your own home. MCBs name search facility is free and easily accessible on our website. Our Cemetery Records System holds records of interments, entombments, cremations and memorials dating back to 1899, from Karrakatta, Fremantle, Pinnaroo, Midland, Guildford and Rockingham cemeteries. Follow the link from the websites home page http://www.mcb.wa.gov.au/research

12.01.2022 The Spark behind the Flying Kangaroo Paul McGinness has been described as ‘the spark’ that led to the founding of Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Service, now Australia’s national airline. Today QANTAS celebrates 100 years in the sky. In 1922, McGinness piloted the airline’s first airmail and passenger flight. McGinness was an Australian flying ace of World War One, credited with seven aerial victories and earned a Distinguished Flying Cross. ... To find out more about the aviator go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//karrakatta-historical-walk-trai or visit the Historical Walk Trails at Karrakatta Cemetery.

11.01.2022 Why do we have the Flower & Ornament Policy? It is important for our grounds staff to maintain a professional standard of cleanliness at each of the cemeteries for visitors. The Flower & Ornament Policy helps us do this. The Policy allows all families a safe and tidy environment to visit. As a general rule, the MCB welcomes the limited placement of fresh or artificial tributes at burial and memorial sites. We do not allow the placement of glass or ceramic vases, ornaments, ...flags, photo frames, candles, toys or wind chimes in standard burial or memorial areas. These items can be hazardous for visitors and staff alike. For more information about the Flower & Ornament Policy and specific guidelines for each individual cemetery please refer to http://www.mcb.wa.gov.au///flower-and-ornament-policy.pdf

11.01.2022 Wings of Hope Universally, the butterfly is a symbol of rebirth, renewal, hope and freedom. As a fitting tribute to a loved one, the Wings of Hope, available in keepsake, medium and large urn sizes can hold the ashes of a loved one. Wings of Hope is beautifully presented in a velvet box and is available in pearl, pink and blue. For more information on how you can order this product please contact Client Services on 1300 793 109.

11.01.2022 Live-streaming of all services in our chapels The Metropolitan Cemeteries Board now has live-streaming of all services in all our chapels to allow family and friends to be part of the farewell process while observing the current social distancing restrictions. Services can be viewed on PC or MAC, tablet and smart phone. The Funeral Director conducting the service will provide the details on how to view the service via a private link that can be distributed to family members.

11.01.2022 Lance Howard Rose Gardens - Karrakatta Cemetery Visitors to Lance Howard Rose Gardens, please be aware the gazebo has been cordoned off due to repair work being undertaken. Garden BC and BD are within the exclusion zone. The MCB apologises for any inconvenience this may cause and thanks visitors for their understanding. We will endeavour to have repairs completed as quickly as possible.

11.01.2022 Carrington & Purdie Pavilions and West Chapel Undercroft Please be aware of essential repairs underway in Carrington & Purdie Pavilions and West Chapel undercroft from Wednesday 5 August until Wednesday 12 August. The path from Carrington Street carpark will still be accessible, allowing access to the chapel precinct. The MCB appreciates your understanding whilst these essential repairs are undertaken.

11.01.2022 What is D2K day? Today is Dying to Know Day, an annual campaign initiated to encourage conversation around death, dying and bereavement. Making your wishes known to family, or having a funeral plan can often ease the transition for loved ones. If you would like to discuss the options of pre-need funerals, call 1300 793 109 and make an appointment to with one of our supportive memorial staff.

09.01.2022 New pews in the Norfolk Chapel The MCBs largest chapel has been updated with new seating to complement the fresh face of the chapel. Manufactured locally, Torrance & McKenna Commercial crafted the distinctive bloodwood native marri frames, completing the seating with Italian leather. The honey-coloured frame with a distinctive vein structure running through the timber is a popular choice in modern furniture, resulting in a comfortable option for patrons to the chapel.

09.01.2022 Display Niches at Fremantle A Display Niche is a popular choice for memorialisation at Fremantle Mausoleum. Each single compartment can hold ashes and/or display memorabilia. Urns are available for purchase from Fremantle office. The remodelled room at the front of the Mausoleum entrance is a unique space that provides privacy for families when visiting a loved one. For more information about display niches go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au/our-/fremantle-cemetery/memorials, or alternatively, enquiries can be made to Client Services at Fremantle Cemetery by contacting 1300 793 109.

08.01.2022 Lord John Forrest died at sea on this day in 1918 on his journey to London seeking specialist cancer treatment in his declining health. After a temporary burial in the country of Sierra Leone where he died on passage, his body was returned to Western Australia for a State Funeral. He was buried at Karrakatta Cemetery some eight months later in a custom-built sarcophagus, fitting in stature for the accomplished man entombed within. As well as leading three expeditions into... remote areas of Western Australia, he was the First Premier of Western Australia, and became a Cabinet Minister in the First Federal Parliament, helping to ensure Western Australia joined the Federation of Australian States. Shortly before his death he was bestowed with the title of Baron. To read more about the significant achievements of Lord Forrest that shaped our state, go to www.mcb.wa.gov.au//hi/karrakatta-historical-walk-trail-one or visit his memorial at Karrakatta Cemetery along Historical Walk Trail One. Walk Trail maps are available at the front of reception in the main driveway.

08.01.2022 In 1943, 27 US servicemen were buried at Karrakatta and concrete crosses were erected on each grave. A flag pole was erected and an agreement employed for the American flag to be raised and lowered each day by cemetery staff at a cost to the United States Navy. The gazebo that resides there today was erected by US navy personnel. This shelter was donated to the people of Western Australia by the Officers and Men of the USS Enterprise in memory of those American servicemen... who died and were buried here during the Second World War. The bodies were exhumed and now lie in the American War Graves section of Rookwood Cemetery in Sydney. The gazebo now holds commemorative plaques of American Navy personnel reflective of the strong ties and positive relationship shared by Australia and the United States of America. The Gazebo can be found at number 20 on Walk Trail Two. More information regarding the Karrakatta Walk Trails can be found by visiting www.mcb.wa.gov.au//karrakatta-cemet/historical-walk-trails

07.01.2022 NEW Gemstone Keepsakes New to MCB is a range of gemstone necklaces and matching rings to hold a token amount of your loved one’s ashes. Rose Quartz and Agate (red) are encased in a 24 carat gold coating with a stainless steel core and Kyanite (blue) and Rutilated Quartz (grey) are encased in stainless steel, incorporating a sterling silver chain. All rings are available in 17mm and 18mm sizes. The Kyanite pendant and ring are on display at our Pinnaroo office and Rose Quartz is on display in our Karrakatta reception.

06.01.2022 Queensland Fruit Fly Quarantine Area Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) personnel will be regularly visiting the grounds of Karrakatta Cemetery over the coming months to carry out Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) eradication activities. DPIRD has been implementing an eradication program since March 2020 following detection of a number of male Qfly in Dalkeith. More were detected in Nedlands and Claremont and a Quarantine Area was declared for these ...three suburbs. As Karrakatta Cemetery falls within this area, no fruit picked from Qfly host trees within the cemetery should be removed from the Quarantine Area. Please do not pick any fruit from the trees within the cemetery, so we can stop the spread and work with DPIRD to eradicate the Qfly. More information is available at https://www.facebook.com/DPIRDWA/videos/709098193189298 . The Quarantine Area Notice(QAN) requirements can be found at agric.wa.gov.au/qfly. The QAN will remain in place until no Qfly is detected for at least 12 weeks.

06.01.2022 Columbarium restoration The restoration of the concrete pillars of the Columbarium at Karrakatta Cemetery is now complete, with a fresh coat of paint completing the works. The MCB would like to extend gratitude for the patience and understanding shown by visitors for any inconvenience experienced during the restoration. The photos show the changing landscape of the Columbarium from original construction in the 1930s through to current day.

06.01.2022 NURSE SHEEDY International Womens Day #IWD2020 On this day of recognition for women everywhere and for those hard working women who influence change, Nurse Sheedy, as she was known to many, is one such woman. Annie Jane Sheedy moved to Fremantle with her husband and five boys from Cessnock in New South Wales. When her husband died in 1908 aged 40, Nurse Sheedy set up a small maternity hospital in her home near Wray Avenue. In 1920 she moved up to Ocean View on Solomon S...treet, a large luxurious home which still exists to this day. The hospital advertised homely accommodation for ladies and provided fresh cows milk daily. For three years prior to Annie taking up residence on Solomon Street, the home was used as a military hospital. Annie herself lost two of her boys in World War One. Annies grandson, accomplished footballer Jack Sheedy summed up her significance to the community by saying "she must have delivered half of Fremantle". To read more about Nurse Sheedy or other fascinating characters at Fremantle Cemetery go to https://www.mcb.wa.gov.au//fremantle-c/heritage-walk-trail

06.01.2022 Garden Chapel Hidden behind manicured hedging, neighbouring the Norfolk Chapel, is Karrakatta’s very own secret garden. The Garden Chapel is a peaceful, private setting located in Karrakatta’s main chapel precinct. This intimate location is available for bookings all year-round, however the warmer weather makes for the ideal setting for an intimate service to farewell a loved one. All cremation services booked at MCB cemeteries include an allocation of chapel time at the cemetery. We encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity which is included in the fees.

06.01.2022 A Greener Midland Cemetery Midland Cemetery has some welcome additions of tree varieties planted near the rear of the cemetery. A variety of Cherry Plum, London Plane Tree, WA Peppermint and Jacaranda trees will provide more colour and shade in the coming years, contributing to a greener environment for the cemetery.

05.01.2022 Heartfelt pendants A keepsake pendant is a special way of keeping a loved one close. With several designs to choose from, a pendant is a personal choice for the beholder. New pendant designs have just arrived. These pendants along with many more in our range are on display at Karrakatta, Pinnaroo, Fremantle and Rockingham offices.

05.01.2022 Care and Maintenance of Memorial Plaques Bronze looks at its best when minimally treated. The best way to clean the metal is with a soft cloth, or a very soft brush and soapy water. Over time, each bronze plaque forms a natural patina that turns the surface a dark, dull colour, providing a protective layer to the plaque. A plaque should never be heavily scrubbed or polished, and abrasives should not be applied. Protectant and cleaner are available for purchase at recepti...on from Karrakatta, Pinnaroo, Fremantle and Rockingham offices. Alternatively, a refurbishment service is available, whereby the plaque is removed and sent back to the manufacturer. Please enquire by contacting Client Services on 1300 793 109.

04.01.2022 Take a Sneak Peak at the second stage of Elements of Life Johannes Pannekoek is the artist commissioned to create the flame that sits central to the next stage of the Elements of Life Memorial at Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park. When creating the design, Johannes likened fire to humans. In his description of the element, fire is born, needs nourishment and oxygen, ages and dies. The main component of the flame is constructed from Corten Steel and is designed to change with ...the environment over time. The first sculpture of Elements of Life sits on the peak of the hill overlooking Sir Thomas Meagher Lake and is the gateway to the remaining three proposed elements. The Elements of Life Memorial, when fully complete will incorporate the four elements of earth, fire, wind and water. The proposed completion date for the second stage is set for December 2020.

03.01.2022 Carpark at Santalum Court Visitors to Santalum Court at Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park will now be able to visit loved ones in the natural bush land setting, entering from the carpark to the rear of the court. The path from the carpark winds through the bush, leading to the viewing deck. Santalum Court provides a serene and peaceful place of reflection, offering options of Vine of Remembrance and Reflection Rocks for memorialisation of a loved one. The flowing creek bed offers a lovely place for reflection. For further enquiries, please call Client Services at Pinnaroo on 1300 793 109.

03.01.2022 New Entry Statement Enter Rockingham Regional Memorial Park through the new upgraded entrance on Baldivis Road. Made from corten steel covering a concrete rendered wall and featuring a variety of native shrubs that will mature over the seasons. Rockingham Regional Memorial Park established a Crematorium and Administration building in 2017 and offers burial and memorial options for families. Appointments are available by calling 1300 793 109.

03.01.2022 Norfolk Chapel Closed for renovations Saturday 22 May Saturday 26 June Karrakatta Cemetery’s largest chapel will be closed for essential refurbishment and maintenance, commencing Saturday 22 May while upgrades are undertaken to provide patrons with enhanced service functionality and aesthetics within the chapel and condolence lounge areas. ... The Metropolitan Cemeteries Board apologises for the inconvenience and is working quickly to have the Norfolk open again for services in the coming weeks.

02.01.2022 Look, Lock and LeaveSafety in our Cemeteries We like to remind visitors to always lock your car when visiting the cemetery and take personal belongings with you or keep them locked away out of sight. Unfortunately break-ins and theft from vehicles at our cemeteries are regularly reported. To read about what the MCB does to help create a safer cemetery environment, head to our website http://www.mcb.wa.gov.au/our/staying-safe-in-our-cemeteries

02.01.2022 What is a Custom Series plaque? A Custom Series plaque allows families the opportunity to enhance their standard bronze plaque with a pictorial based bronze plaque. These plaques allow for a unique, individual tribute to a loved one. High resolution images are recommended for best results and restraint with images and wording will provide an optimum outcome. For more information regarding the Custom Series plaques, call Client Services on 1300 793 109.

02.01.2022 Beware the Bunya! Have you ever seen a Bunya Pine Cone? Each cone can weigh up to 10kg and during cone season can drop without warning. This cone comes from the native Queensland Bunya Pine, belonging to the Araucariaceae family of coniferous trees that includes the Norfolk Island Pine and Australias famous prehistoric Wollemi Pine. Known as a bunya-bunya, bunyi, booni-booni or bonya in various Aboriginal dialects, the Bunya is a culturally significant tree for indigenous A...ustralians as a source of kindling, timber and a good food source. It has edible seeds inside the large cone, which are traditionally eaten raw, roasted or ground into a paste. Karrakatta Cemetery has a Bunya tree located on John Curtin Avenue behind the chapel precinct. The tree itself is shaped like a giant pine cone. The tree has recently been pruned and the cones removed. Pruning occurs every two to three years. Our grounds staff are observant to prune the tree before cones become hazardous to patrons of the cemetery.

02.01.2022 Live streaming in all chapels The Metropolitan Cemeteries Board has live streaming available for all services in our chapels to allow family and friends to be part of the farewell process while observing the current social distancing restrictions in place. The service can be viewed on PC or MAC, tablet and smart phone. The Funeral Director conducting the service will provide details on how to view the service.