Trust president Maria Cameron said a person or persons had stolen two sets of treated pine planks from the cemetery.

The planks, valued at $400, are used to ensure graves are stable.

Mrs Cameron said she was bitterly disappointed by the theft.

"I'm just gutted," she said.

"This is the last resting place of so many people - it's a sacred site."

Mrs Cameron said the theft had been reported to police.

The planks were last seen at the cemetery when a funeral was held on June 19.

"We had to rush down to Brookes' to buy some new timber for a funeral today (Wednesday)," Mrs Cameron said.

"You wonder what would motivate someone to steal from a small trust."

The cemetery has at least one grave dating back to 1847.

Back at that time people from all over the south-west were buried at the Port Fairy cemetery, because Warrnambool had not yet established its own.

Mrs Cameron has asked for anyone who witnessed someone taking the planks to contact the trust or Port Fairy police.

She said the trust volunteers worked hard for every dollar they made for the cemetery, hosting tours to be able to ensure it remains a peaceful resting place.

On Sunday the trust is hosting a working bee at 1.30pm.

Mrs Cameron said members of the public were welcome to come along and offer a helping hand.

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