Matthew Somers had difficulty finding his nan’s gravesite and ended up using his first-aid scissors to cut the grass that had grown up to a metre high in places. Apparently, after record November rainfall levels and rainy December days, local cemetery maintenance badly needs to catch up.
Mt Gravatt Cemetery spans nearly 80 hectares and operates as a lawn facility. November’s rainfall in Brisbane totaled over 214mm—three times the normal levels—prompting 67 mowing-related calls from the Mt Gravatt East area.
Council noted that mowing is conducted only when conditions are dry enough to avoid damage to graves and grounds, with Mt Gravatt Cemetery scheduled for nine mows during peak season.
Meteorological data confirms significant precipitation: Brisbane experienced over 214 mm of rain in November, approximately three times normal levels. October also recorded nearly 110 mm of rainfall.
Cr Steve Griffiths raised concerns about cemetery maintenance, suggesting it should be treated similarly to park maintenance.
Council regularly maintains cemetery and crematorium grounds, handling tasks like mowing, whipper-snipping, tree care, grave dirt topping, plaque levelling, and clearing old flowers. Families are responsible for maintaining and restoring headstones and plaques.
Maintenance requests can be made by calling 07 3403 8888.
This issue isn’t isolated to Mt Gravatt Cemetery. Last month, an anonymous post on the Friends of Nundah Historic Cemetery page raised similar concerns about cemetery maintenance.
Published 11-December-2024