Vandalism at Historic Pioneer Cemetery

The City of Port Lincoln wishes to advise the community of the distressing damage caused by vandals at the historic Pioneer Cemetery, located on Bernard Place. The extent of the damage is substantial, with at least 25 headstones damaged, many of which require significant restoration work.

Upon inspection, it has been determined that the damage occurred within the confines of the historic portion of the Pioneer Cemetery and does not extend to the RSL Garden of Remembrance or the broader Happy Valley Cemetery.

"I am deeply saddened by the vandalism that has occurred at our cherished Pioneer Cemetery. Such acts of desecration are not only an affront to the memory of those laid to rest but also to the entire community," stated Mayor Diana Mislov.

Council was notified of the damage by South Australia Police, and investigations are currently underway. In light of this, Council calls upon the community to respect the police investigation process.

"It is imperative that we allow law enforcement to carry out their investigations thoroughly and without interference. We urge the community to come forward with any information they may have to assist in this process," added Mayor Mislov.

It is important to note that the headstones at the cemetery are owned by the interment right holders, typically family members of the deceased. However, given the passage of time and the historic nature of the graves, it is possible that many of the headstones would not have interment right holders that are contactable. However, recognising the historic significance and community value of these headstones, Council is committed to working with interment right holders to pursue rectification works. Additionally, Council will be investigating the feasibility and cost of completing restoration work itself.

In the interim, Council is actively engaged in efforts to preserve the headstones, allowing for future rectification and reinstallation, said Council’s CEO Eric Brown.

"Council acknowledges the gravity of this situation and kindly requests the community's patience and understanding as efforts are made to rectify the damage caused," concluded Mayor Mislov.

In an effort to reassure members of the community who are concerned that their family members grave sites have been impacted by the recent vandalism, we have included a list the sites that have been identified.  Council encourages the interment right holders or family members of the impacted sites to contact Council on 86212300

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MEDIA CONTACT:

City of Port Lincoln Chief Executive Officer Eric Brown

Ph: 8621 2325 | Email: plcc@plcc.sa.gov.au