Revitalisation and restoration at Cobargo Cemetery

25 June 2021

A project to restore and revitalise key infrastructure following the Black Summer bushfires has been completed at the Cobargo Cemetery.

The work included the construction of a new pavilion building, an upgrade to the internal gravel road, the replacement of a storage container lost in the fires, the repair of a bench seat and fencing damaged in the fires, the installation of a new water tank, and construction of a new rock garden.

The Rotary Club of Merimbula also presented the Friends of Cobargo Cemetery with a new ride-on lawn mower and whipper snipper to replace the maintenance equipment lost in the fires.

Bega Valley Shire Council’s Cemeteries and Halls Officer, Katrina Berenguer said the outcome is testament to the commitment across the shire to support those individuals, groups and communities most impacted.

“It has been extremely encouraging to be part of this collaboration with the Rotary Club of Merimbula, the Friends of Cobargo Cemetery and Council to deliver this valuable project,” Ms Berenguer said.

“The new pavilion is a great addition to the site, providing shelter from rain or heat for loved ones and volunteers, and the rock garden provides a quiet place of reflection. 

“The Rotary Club of Merimbula has done a fantastic job assisting with the project management of this project and the upgrading of internal roads at the Bermagui and Pambula cemeteries as well.”

Funding for the Cobargo project came from the Friends of Cobargo Cemetery ($10,000), the Rotary Club of Merimbula ($7,000), and the Australian Government under the Drought Communities Programme - Extension ($23,740).

For more information on the shire’s cemeteries, including how you can get involved, head to https://begavalley.nsw.gov.au/cp_themes/default/page.asp?p=DOC-ITZ-42-35-17