Malmsbury Cemetery has received a $10,000 grant to upgrade and maintain its facilities.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas announced the funding on February 19, which is delivered through the 2023-24 Cemetery Grants Program.
Malmsbury Cemetery is among 48 cemetery trusts across the state sharing in this grant round, which supports upgrades and costs relating to infrastructure, facilities, maintenance, equipment and training.
Chris Byrnes from Malmsbury Cemetery Trust said the funds will be used to survey ashes specific plots, in a currently unused section of the cemetery overlooking the Malmsbury Reservoir.
“This is one of a series of initiatives that have been funded by the Department of Health,” he said.
“[It has] helped ensure the long-term future of the cemetery and broaden its ability to meet the needs of the local community.”
Ms Thomas said the cemetery plays an important role in the local community.
“This grant will provide them with an opportunity to get much-needed upgrades,” she said.
“Providing Victorians with peaceful places to visit and honour loved ones who have died makes these grants all the more important.”
The state government said Victoria’s cemeteries are important community spaces, where people can reflect on the past and remember those no longer with them.
Grant rounds are awarded twice each year, with applications for the current round closing on March 31.
A selection panel assess each application against the assessment criteria.
For more information and to apply, visit health.vic.gov.au/cemeteries-and-crematoria/cemetery-grants-program.
