‘Serene space’: Upgrades set to begin at Maryborough Cemetery

A new ashes memorial arbour will be one part of a significant upgrade set to get underway at a key cemetery on the Fraser Coast.

Maryborough Cemetery will undergo significant upgrades beginning next week, including a new ashes memorial arbour, new pathways, seating and enhanced landscaping.

Maryborough Cemetery will undergo significant upgrades starting next week, including a new ashes memorial arbour, new footpaths, seating and enhanced landscaping.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the stage one upgrades would ensure the needs of the growing community continued to be met by providing a “beautiful, serene space where people can remember and honour those who have passed”.

“The new memorial arbour will provide approximately 400 additional small compartments for ashes, helping us keep up with demand while also improving the overall experience for visitors,” he said.

“The arbour will be constructed from concrete posts, timber beams, and rafters, with bench seating underneath and creeping vines planted along the sides to create a natural, tranquil setting.

“A new concrete footpath will connect it to the existing walkways.”

Maryborough Cemetery will undergo significant upgrades beginning next week, including a new ashes memorial arbour, new footpaths, seating and enhanced landscaping.

Mr Seymour said granite niche blocks would also be installed along the footpath, allowing ashes to be housed inside alongside memorial plaques.

“The upgrades reflect council’s commitment to thoughtful planning and ensuring families have a dignified and peaceful place to remember loved ones,” he said.

“A cemetery is more than just a final resting place — it’s a space for reflection, remembrance, and connection.

“These improvements will ensure the Maryborough Garden of Rest remains a well-maintained, welcoming place for generations to come.”

Construction will begin on Tuesday, March 25, with stage one of the memorial arbour being the first element completed.

The work area will be fenced off during construction, but disruptions to visitors will be minimal.

Stage one upgrades are expected to be completed by June 2025, weather permitting.

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