The precise location of Warrnambool’s 28,000 graves can now be found following the launch of a comprehensive online database.
The Warrnambool Cemetery Trust spent 12 months working to create the new website, which also provides residents with the opportunity to have their say about Warrnambool’s new cemetery, Tooram Memorial Park.
Chairwoman Sheryl Nicholson said it was the first time the cemetery has had the "valuable function of being able to search for the deceased”.
"In the past, community members would have to go and try to locate the manager at the cemetery, who would then have to spend time trying to do a search," she said.
"Now with the use of Google maps, people can go online, search for their loved ones and receive a precise location within the cemetery.
“The database is complete but with all new things there may be a few hiccups. If for some reasons a name can’t be found online, I urge people to please contact us.”
The new website will also keep the community up-to-date with developments at Tooram Memorial Park.
Ms Nicholson said works were well under way on the new cemetery on Hopkins Road near Allansford, but public input was crucial to finalising the site’s development plans.
"We only have about two years of land left at the old cemetery in Otway Road," she said.
"We are really keen to get some input from the community so that we can develop a cemetery that meets their needs.
“We are looking towards doing something that is more modern and will suit the environment, so we’re looking for suggestions regarding layout, design, facilities and landscaping. The cemetery is an evolving facility but we need to be able to commence burials within two years, so the sooner we receive feedback the better.”
Tooram Memorial Park is expected to provide sufficient space for burial sites for the next 200 years.
For more information or to view the database, visit www.warrnamboolcemetery.com.au
