IPSWICH City Council is planning to extend and change the historic Stone Quarry Cemetery at Jeebropilly, which was established in 1875.
The cemetery, which has served as the final resting place for a number of pioneers from districts such as Rosewood, Ebenezer, Jeebropilly, and Amberley, is in line for a makeover to meet the evolving needs of the growing region, the council says.
An outline of the extension and other changes are contained in a concept plan, which was released for public comment, last week.
The proposed plans … “aim to respect the historical significance of the cemetery while incorporating new features to serve the diverse needs of the community”.
Ipswich Mayor, Teresa Harding, said the council’s intention is to preserve this heritage while introducing modern amenities to cater to future needs.
“It is important that we maintain the historic grave monuments and established trees as they provide a significant ongoing connection for founding families who still live in the area,” Mayor Harding said.
“Traditional Islamic burials and possibly a non-denominational area are being considered to better reflect our growing and changing community.
“No activities are being proposed in the concept plan near the existing monuments and graves. We want to maintain the current aesthetic of the area.”
One significant addition includes a dedicated space for traditional Islamic burials, this follows a petition from the Islamic community last year, as the nearest location was in Mt Gravatt, Brisbane according to Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen.
As part of the concept plan council is proposing to introduce a columbarium wall or memorial gardens and a potential non-denominational area for burials of people of any faith.
Council is now seeking feedback from the community on the proposed changes.
