Will the Shire be excavating or exhuming grave sites at the Serpentine and Jarrahdale cemeteries?

    No. The proposed works in the Serpentine Jarrahdale Cemeteries Masterplan are based on beautification upgrades of the current cemeteries. 

    The works will include planting native flora at the site, as well as the additions of new gazebo and toilet facilities.

    Will the works effect existing grave sites at the Serpentine and Jarrahdale cemeteries?

    No. These works will not affect existing plots at the cemetery.

    Will the Serpentine and Jarrahdale cemeteries be relocated?

    No. The purpose of the proposed works outlined in the Serpentine Jarrahdale Cemeteries Masterplan is to ensure the cemeteries remain functional for a longer period.

    Additional plots will be added to extend the use of the current cemetery sites.

    More information on the addition of more plots to the cemetery sites can be found in the Masterplan located in the “Documents” section of this webpage.

    Why can’t the Shire develop the land earmarked for a cemetery near Whitby?

    The land designated for a cemetery near Whitby is managed by the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board (MCB). 

    Development of the site is the responsibility of the MCB.

    Why is the Shire engaging about the Cemeteries Masterplan?

    The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale has two local cemeteries, in Serpentine and in Jarrahdale, but space is limited. 

    Shire Officers met twice with the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, which manages the land in Whitby, to enquire if the regional cemetery will be developed soon. 

    The Metropolitan Cemeteries Board advised that the Whitby cemetery will not be required at this stage and therefore not developed for at least ten years, with burials directed to Rockingham Regional Memorial Park in the interim if required. 

    The Shire is engaging the community for feedback ahead of the implementation of the Masterplan.

    Will the Masterplan be the final layout for of the cemeteries plan?

    No. The Shire will determine the position of these assets based on community feedback and design and engineering constraints.