Utterly disrespectful: Graves vandalised at Lismore cemetery

AUTHORITIES are calling for people who may have seen any suspicious behaviour in the area, with the council saying it was "disrespectful" and "not on".

Vandalised graves at the East Lismore Cemetery. Picture: Lismore City Council

THREE gravestones have been vandalised in the East Lismore Cemetery, and the community is furious.

Posting on its Facebook page, Lismore City Council said: "This is really disrespectful behaviour to families whose loved ones are buried there.

"We want to make it clear that this is not on, and if anyone sees suspicious behaviour near the cemetery they should phone us on 1300 87 83 87."

The Facebook post prompted an angry response from the community.

Arthur Pearsall wrote: "Boredom? Anger? Resentment? Scum rises to the top, I think dregs might be a more appropriate term."

Maryanne Cafee said the offenders wouldn't have much respect for the living "if they can't even let the deceased rest in peace".

Leanda Headford suggested cameras could be installed around the graveyard to stop vandalism.

"Bloody idiots with no brain doing this, with no respect," she posted.

Alex Morschel said the vandalised grave had been there since 1940.

Richie Allen suggested that when the vandals were caught, they should be made to go around the cemetery with a toothbrush and clean all headstones.

"It would be a start as a repayment for the sign of disrespect," he said.

Jennifer Smith posted: "I hope they find the twits that have done this ... so disrespectful. I have family out there from a sister to a great great grandfather."

Judy Balderi-McLean said she also had a sister, aunt, uncle and other relatives buried at the East Lismore Cemetery.

Peta Szep described the vandalism as "absolutely disgusting and utterly disrespectful", while Chris Downie said it was a "very sad thing to see".