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_________________________________________________________________________________Moorefields Cemetery, Kingsgrove Chris Betteridge, Musecape Pty LtdConservation Management Plan 2002

Moorefields CemeteryKingsgrove

Conservation Management Plan

Prepared by

Chris Betteridge BSc MSc(Museum Studies) AMAMUSEc a p e Pty Ltd

42 Botany Street Randwick NSW 2031Tel: (02) 9314 6642 Fax: (02) 9398 7086

E-mail: [email protected]

for

Canterbury City Council

2002

__________________________________________________________________________________________Moorefields Cemetery, Kingsgrove Chris Betteridge, Musecape Pty LtdConservation Management Plan 2002

Front cover: General view of Cemetery looking towards southern corner, showingthe range of monumental styles and some of the problems, including subsidence ofgraves, broken kerbs, weathering of stone and biological staining of monuments.


Table of ContentsForeword .................................................................................................................................................61 Executive Summary........................................................................................................................7

1.1 The Brief ..................................................................................................................................................71.2 Scope of Work .........................................................................................................................................71.3 Cultural Significance................................................................................................................................71.4 Constraints, Issues and Opportunities .....................................................................................................81.5 Conservation Policies ..............................................................................................................................81.6 Management Recommendations...........................................................................................................101.7 Conservation of Monuments..................................................................................................................101.8 The Future .............................................................................................................................................101.9 References and Appendices..................................................................................................................10

2 Introduction ...................................................................................................................................112.1 Background ...........................................................................................................................................112.2 Objectives and Structure of the Plan .....................................................................................................112.3 Where this Plan Applies.........................................................................................................................112.4 Methodology ..........................................................................................................................................132.5 Limitations .............................................................................................................................................132.6 Authorship .............................................................................................................................................132.7 Budget ...................................................................................................................................................142.8 Acknowledgments..................................................................................................................................14

3 Documentary Evidence.................................................................................................................153.1 Thematic Approach................................................................................................................................153.2 Chronological Historical Context............................................................................................................153.3 Burial Statistics ......................................................................................................................................183.4 Monumental Masons and Funeral Directors ..........................................................................................183.5 Ability to Demonstrate............................................................................................................................19

4 Physical Evidence.........................................................................................................................204.1 The Environmental Context ...................................................................................................................204.2 Identification of Existing Fabric ..............................................................................................................20

4.2.1 Monuments.........................................................................................................................................................204.2.2 Layout and paths................................................................................................................................................204.2.3 Fences and gates...............................................................................................................................................204.2.4 Ornamental Plantings.........................................................................................................................................204.2.5 Archival Material .................................................................................................................................................20

4.3 Physical Condition .................................................................................................................................225 Assessment of Cultural Significance ............................................................................................23

5.1 Methodology ..........................................................................................................................................235.2 Comparative Analysis ............................................................................................................................255.3 Determination of Curtilage .....................................................................................................................25

5.3.1 Definition of Curtilage .........................................................................................................................................255.3.2 Recommended Curtilage for Moorefields Cemetery ..........................................................................................26

5.4 Statement of Significance ......................................................................................................................265.4.1 Statement for Moorefields Cemetery..................................................................................................................26

5.5 Identification of Significant Elements .....................................................................................................275.5.1 Grading of Significance ......................................................................................................................................27

5.6 State Heritage Inventory form................................................................................................................286 Issues, Constraints and Opportunities..........................................................................................29

6.1 Constraints arising from Cultural Significance .......................................................................................296.2 Constraints arising from the Burra Charter of Australia ICOMOS..........................................................296.3 Statutory Constraints and Obligations arising from Non-statutory listings .............................................32

6.3.1 Australian Heritage Commission Act, 1975........................................................................................................326.3.2 NSW Heritage Act 1977 and Heritage Amendment Act 1998 ............................................................................336.3.3 NSW Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979....................................................................................336.3.4 Occupational Health & Safety Requirements .....................................................................................................346.3.5 National Trust of Australia (New South Wales) ..................................................................................................346.3.6 Australian Standards ..........................................................................................................................................346.3.7 Skeletal Remains ...............................................................................................................................................35

6.4 Canterbury Council Management Requirements...................................................................................356.4.1 Burials ................................................................................................................................................................356.4.2 Constraints imposed by land tenure or zoning ...................................................................................................35

6.5 Constraints imposed by available resources .........................................................................................356.6 Constraints Arising from Physical Condition ..........................................................................................366.7 Opportunities for Further Evidence........................................................................................................366.8 Monitoring of Visitor Use and Cemetery Condition ................................................................................376.9 Interpretive Opportunities ......................................................................................................................37


7 Development of Conservation Policies.........................................................................................388 Conservation Policies, Procedures and Guidelines......................................................................39

8.1 Conservation Definitions........................................................................................................................398.2 General Conservation Policies ..............................................................................................................41

8.2.1 Conservation Management ................................................................................................................................418.2.2 Statement of Cultural Significance .....................................................................................................................418.2.3 Responsibility for Conservation in decision-making ...........................................................................................418.2.4 Statutory Protection............................................................................................................................................428.2.5 Professional Standards, Compliance with Legislation, Public Consultation and Current Best Practice in

Conservation .................................................................................................................................................................428.2.6 Investigation and Research................................................................................................................................428.2.7 Conservation of Fabric .......................................................................................................................................438.2.8 Permissible New Works .....................................................................................................................................438.2.9 Research Programs ...........................................................................................................................................438.2.10 Interpretation and Promotion..............................................................................................................................448.2.11 Conservation of Archival Material.......................................................................................................................458.2.12 Record Keeping..................................................................................................................................................458.2.13 Public Access and Use.......................................................................................................................................458.2.14 Training...............................................................................................................................................................458.2.15 Community participation in cemetery conservation............................................................................................458.3.16 Community awareness of cemetery management and conservation programs ................................................468.2.17 Adoption, Availability and Review of Plan ..........................................................................................................47

8.3 Site Specific Conservation Policies........................................................................................................478.3.1 Erection of New Monuments ..............................................................................................................................478.3.2 Placement of Ashes ...........................................................................................................................................488.3.3 Memorial Plaques...............................................................................................................................................488.3.4 Traffic, Access and Parking................................................................................................................................488.3.5 Choice of Materials.............................................................................................................................................488.3.6 Management of Change.....................................................................................................................................498.3.7 Adjoining Lands..................................................................................................................................................498.3.8 Maintenance Procedures ...................................................................................................................................508.3.9 Archival Material and Movable Heritage.............................................................................................................508.3.10 Disabled Access.................................................................................................................................................518.3.11 Occupational Health and Safety.........................................................................................................................518.3.12 Archaeological Constraints.................................................................................................................................518.3.13 Avoidance of Chemical Pollutants......................................................................................................................52

9 Management Recommendations..................................................................................................539.1 Maintenance & Conservation of Landscape Elements ..........................................................................53

9.1.1 Trees and Major Shrubs.....................................................................................................................................539.1.2 Minor Shrubs ......................................................................................................................................................539.1.3 Herbaceous plantings.........................................................................................................................................539.1.4 Lawn areas.........................................................................................................................................................539.1.5 Fences, gates and park furniture........................................................................................................................549.1.6 Paving ................................................................................................................................................................549.1.7 Miscellaneous items ...........................................................................................................................................549.1.8 Signs ..................................................................................................................................................................549.1.9 Site Drainage......................................................................................................................................................549.1.10 Monuments.........................................................................................................................................................54

9.2 General Maintenance Schedule ............................................................................................................559.3 Interpretation .........................................................................................................................................56

9.3.1 Basic Objectives.................................................................................................................................................569.3.2 Existing Interpretive Material ..............................................................................................................................569.3.3 Site Specific Recommendations.........................................................................................................................569.3.4 Other Interpretive Options ..................................................................................................................................57

10 Conservation of Monuments.........................................................................................................5810.1 Basic Principles .....................................................................................................................................58

10.1.1 Documenting and storing fragments ..................................................................................................................5810.1.2 Excavation to expose plinths or kerbs................................................................................................................5810.1.3 Good housekeeping ...........................................................................................................................................5810.1.4 Tree Damage, Erosion and Root Control ...........................................................................................................58

10.2 Cleaning ................................................................................................................................................5810.2.1 Removal of dirt ...................................................................................................................................................5910.2.2 Removal of biological growths............................................................................................................................5910.2.3 Graffiti removal ...................................................................................................................................................60

10.3 Resetting Monuments............................................................................................................................6010.3.1 Emergency measures ........................................................................................................................................6010.3.2 Dealing with broken stelae .................................................................................................................................60

10.4 Repairing Monuments............................................................................................................................6010.4.1 Broken fragments ...............................................................................................................................................6110.4.2 Consolidation of decaying fabric ........................................................................................................................61

10.5 Grave Surrounds ...................................................................................................................................6110.5.1 Repointing joints .................................................................................................................................................6110.5.2 Replacing kerbs..................................................................................................................................................61


10.6 Slabs......................................................................................................................................................6110.7 Inscriptions ............................................................................................................................................62

10.7.1 Transcribing inscriptions.....................................................................................................................................6210.7.2 Restoration of inscriptions ..................................................................................................................................62

10.8 Ironwork.................................................................................................................................................6210.9 Prioritised Schedule of Works................................................................................................................63

11 Bibliography ..................................................................................................................................6312 Appendices ...................................................................................................................................67

Appendix A Heritage Listings ............................................................................................................................Appendix B Draft State Heritage Inventory Form ..............................................................................................Appendix C Sample Visitor Survey Form ..........................................................................................................Appendix D Draft Cemetery Visitor Code..........................................................................................................Appendix E Information in respect to burials in the Moorfields Methodist Cemetery, October, 1959 ................Appendix F Glossary.........................................................................................................................................Appendix G Illustrations.....................................................................................................................................

Appendix H Moorefields Cemetery Monument Inventory Form…………………………………………………….


ForewordMoorefields Cemetery at Kingsgrove is an important item of the environmentalheritage of the Canterbury City Council area and of New South Wales. It hashistoric, aesthetic, social and research / educational significance at a local and Statelevel.

As trustee of the cemetery, Canterbury City Council manages this important place tosafeguard its heritage values and to respect its sanctity as a place of human burial.Building on conservation and improvement works already carried out under theCentenary of Federation program, Council has achieved a great deal with limitedfinancial and human resources. With advice from the National Trust of Australia(New South Wales), Council is now taking further steps to ensure the protection ofthis important place into the future.

Council has recognised the need for a Conservation Management Plan to guidefuture works in the cemetery, as part of its overall strategy to conserve and interpretplaces of heritage significance in the local government area.

As Mayor I feel sure that this Conservation Management Plan for MoorefieldsCemetery will provide a sound basis for decision-making by Council and othersinvolved in the management of this special place. Moorefields Cemetery willcontinue to be treasured as a valuable community resource for memorialisation ofthe departed, for family history research, education, and quiet contemplation.

Councillor Kayee GriffinMayor of Canterbury City


1 Executive Summary

1.1 The BriefChris Betteridge of Musecape Pty Ltd, heritage consultants, was commissioned byCanterbury City Council to prepare a Conservation Management Plan forMoorefields Cemetery.

1.2 Scope of WorkDocumentary and physical evidence relating to the cemetery was analysed and adraft statement of significance for the cemetery produced. Relevant issues relatingto the operation, management and conservation of the place were examined and theconstraints imposed by statutory controls, the physical condition of the place,management structure and financial limitations, and significance assessed to enablethe development of appropriate policies and strategies. A schedule of recommendedconservation works with priorities for implementation has been prepared.

1.3 Cultural SignificanceThe cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is considered to be of local andState heritage significance as a place with historical, social, architectural, cultural,archaeological, and aesthetic significance for the Canterbury City Local GovernmentArea and the State of New South Wales. It satisfies most if not all of the sevencriteria established under the NSW Heritage Act (as amended in 1998) for inclusionon the State Heritage Register.

The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is important in the course andpattern of the cultural history of New South Wales because of its historicalassociations and significant documentary and physical evidence of the evolution ofthe place (Criterion A). The Cemetery contains the remains of former convicts andof Aboriginal people, as well as some burials that pre-date Civil Registration of births,deaths and marriages in NSW.

The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is historically significant at a locallevel for its strong associations with a number of individuals and families important inthe development of the Canterbury City Council area. (Criterion B). The cemeteryhas strong associations with significant individuals in the establishment anddevelopment of the Kingsgrove area.

The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is important in demonstratingaesthetic characteristics in New South Wales. The funerary monuments at thecemetery include fine examples of monumental masonry in a range of types andstyles representative of their period. (Criterion C). For such a relatively small burialground, it displays an unusually diverse array of monumental types and designs.

The landscape of Moorefields Cemetery has strong associations with past andcontemporary communities of the Kingsgrove and South Belmore areas for socialand cultural reasons. The many early settler burials provide a genealogical link tothe present community that is being increasingly recognized as people research theirfamily histories. The place is held in high esteem by significant groups within thepresent day community. (Criterion D)


It is considered that further research of the physical and documentary evidencerelated to Moorefields Cemetery has the potential to contribute to a widerunderstanding of European occupation of New South Wales, from the mid 19th

century to the present day. (Criterion E) Further research of the monuments and theburial records can lead to better interpretation of the history and heritage significanceof the place, contributing to wider and better understanding of our past.

By virtue of its historical associations with important persons and events in thedevelopment of the Canterbury City local government area, Moorefields Cemeterypossesses rare aspects of the area’s cultural history. (Criterion F). Some of theburials pre-date 1856, the year of introduction of Civil Registration of Births, Deathsand Marriages in New South Wales.

Moorefields Cemetery demonstrates the principal characteristics of a class of thecultural places of New South Wales (Criterion G). It is representative of smalldenominational burial grounds dating from the mid-nineteenth century.

1.4 Constraints, Issues and OpportunitiesKey constraints, issues and opportunities arising from the cultural significance of thecemetery, statutory controls, the Burra Charter, the client’s brief, the current use andthe physical condition of the place are summarised below. They are discussed inmore detail in Section 6 of this Plan. The place is managed as an operatingcemetery and historic site with heritage, educational, recreational, tourism andinterpretive values.

1.5 Conservation PoliciesA number of Conservation Policies have been formulated to guide the futuremanagement of the cemetery. These can be found in Section 8 of the Plan and aresummarised below:

The landscape of Moorefields Cemetery should be managed to retain, conserve andenhance its significance in accordance with the Conservation Policies in this Plan.

The Statement of Cultural Significance set out in Section 5 should be accepted asone of the bases for future management of the cemetery.

The future conservation and management of the landscape of the cemetery shouldbe carried out in accordance with the principles of the Australia ICOMOS Charter forthe Conservation of Places of Cultural Significance (The Burra Charter) as revised inNovember 1999.

Arboricultural treatment of trees and shrubs on the site should be carried out only byqualified personnel experienced in working in heritage landscapes. The work mustconform to relevant Australian standards and current best practice in arboriculture asrecommended by the relevant industry representative groups such as the LandscapeContractors Association of New South Wales, the National Arborists Association ofAustralia and the Australian Institute of Horticulture.


On-site interpretation policy should provide for a program that involves the use ofconsistent, well-designed, vandal-resistant and visually unobtrusive media. Thesedevices should not dominate, obscure or reduce the cultural significance of theinterpreted fabric or place.

On-site interpretation should be supplemented where possible by other media suchas pamphlets, books or electronic media which should be available to the public invarious ways such as on the internet or by purchase or reference in public libraries.

Responsibility for decision-making in relation to the landscape of MoorefieldsCemetery will rest with Canterbury City Council who should comply with anyrequirements under the NSW Heritage Act 1977, as amended.

Materials used in the maintenance or reconstruction of the landscape of thecemetery should preferably be traditional materials already used in the constructionof the landscape.

New materials such as aluminium or recycled plastic may be introduced to thelandscape only where they are essential for interpretation or public safety reasons,have minimal impact on the significance of the place or are reversible.

Choice of species for new plantings should be based on the relative significance ofthe area, appropriateness for the period, suitability for the location, ease ofmaintenance and use (e.g. screening, visitor control, floral display).

New plantings should be located in such a way that they enhance views, not detractfrom them.

Significant former elements should be restored or reconstructed to maintain theheritage value and character of the cemetery.

Procedures for maintenance and repairs should be adopted to reduce costs andconform to current best practice in conservation. Statutory requirements, forexample the Occupational Health & Safety Act, must also be considered in theformulation of these procedures.

A procedures manual should be developed for the range of maintenance and repairtasks for the various elements of the site, for example, monuments, landscapeelements.

Routine maintenance actions should be carried out in accordance with the Scheduleat section 9.2.

Records such as logbooks should be kept for all repairs and maintenance tomonuments and landscape elements. A pro-active program of planned maintenanceshould be developed.

Copies of all known relevant records relating to Moorefields Cemetery should bekept as a collection at Canterbury City Council Library and at the local historicalsociety.


Research on the history and landscape of the cemetery should be encouraged andcoordinated to ensure use of available resources to maximum effect.

Where possible, relevant standards for disabled access should be met.

Management should be committed to a policy of maximising public safety, managingrisk and minimising public liability within the constraints imposed by conservation ofheritage significance.

Regular inspections and monitoring should be carried out to identify potential andfuture risks and hazards. Reports should be made of hazards and incidents, andlogbooks kept of actions taken to remedy these situations. Public safety hazardsshould be identified and / or appropriate warning signs and barricades should beerected as soon as possible after detection.

Adequate levels of insurance should be maintained to cover public liability.

A protocol for dealing with complaints, claims and incidents should be establishedand reviewed on a regular basis.

There is a need for a clear identity for Moorefields Cemetery and its landscape, inthe context of the cultural landscape history of Canterbury City. This should beconveyed through signage and other interpretive media in accordance with anadopted Interpretive Plan for the place.

This Conservation Management Plan should be formally adopted by Canterbury CityCouncil and endorsed by the Heritage Council of New South Wales, monitored on anongoing basis and reviewed after a period of not more than five years.

1.6 Management RecommendationsThe Plan provides recommendations for conservation of the Cemetery landscapeincluding a Maintenance Schedule.

1.7 Conservation of MonumentsThe Plan provides detailed advice on the conservation methods appropriate for thevarious types of monuments and monument fabric in the Cemetery.

1.8 The FutureThe existing use of Moorefields Cemetery as an historic burial place is considered tobe the most appropriate use for the place and should be continued and supported byCanterbury City Council.

1.9 References and AppendicesA comprehensive set of references is given and relevant documents are supplied asappendices.


2 Introduction

2.1 BackgroundMoorefields Cemetery is managed by Canterbury City Council, which has allocatedfunds for the preparation of a Conservation Management Plan for the site to guideCouncil in its future management. Council has engaged the author to prepare aConservation Management Plan for the cemetery.

2.2 Objectives and Structure of the PlanCouncil required the Plan to be prepared in accordance with the principlesadvocated in the Burra Charter of Australia ICOMOS and any relevant requirementsof the Heritage Act. The author advised Council that the format of the Plan would bein keeping with the ‘Draft Guidelines for the Preparation of ConservationManagement Plans for Cemeteries’ by the author and David Beaver LandscapeArchitect. The work would entail the following:• Review of readily available documentary evidence relating to the site, with

emphasis on secondary sources, but including burial records;• Consultation with relevant stakeholders eg Council, Canterbury & District

Historical Society;• Recording of physical evidence, including description of cemetery landscape and

samples of monument types, with digital images;• Analysis of significance of site and major components;• Preparation of a draft State Heritage Inventory form for submission to the NSW

Heritage Office:• Formulation of generic conservation policies, strategies and guidelines;• Preparation of a report in both hard copy and computer-readable form.

2.3 Where this Plan Applies

Moorefields Cemetery is located in Maramba Close, Kingsgrove at the rear of 98-100Moorefields Road, Kingsgrove. The property description is Lot 2, DP 594305. Thestudy area is shown on the Location Plan (Fig.1) on the next page.


Fig. 1 Location Plan, showing Moorefields Cemetery in relation to the suburbs ofKingsgrove and Belmore(Source: UBD Street Directory 1993 edition, map 273)


2.4 MethodologyThis Plan has been prepared in accordance with standard conservation planningprinciples, as espoused in publications such as James Kerr’s The Conservation Planand the NSW Heritage Manual. The methodology involved identification of heritagesignificance through research of documentary evidence and recording of physicalevidence on site, assessment of significance using the criteria developed for theState Heritage Register and those in the Heritage Manual, consultation with keystakeholders, consideration of relevant issues, opportunities and constraints toenable the formulation of conservation policies and strategies, and preparation of thePlan, which includes provision for adoption and review.

The Plan complies with the conservation planning process and principles of theBurra Charter (Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance) and itsGuidelines. The terminology used throughout the Plan is consistent with thedefinitions in the Burra Charter.

The draft document was prepared to comply as closely as possible with NSWHeritage Office guidelines for Conservation Management Plans.

The preparation of the Plan was coordinated by Canterbury City Council staff.Comments by Council officers and relevant stakeholders on the draft document havebeen reviewed by the consultant and amendments made as necessary forfinalisation of the Plan.

2.5 LimitationsThe preparation of this Plan was based on the research of existing documentarymaterial and above-surface physical fabric within the time and budgetary constraintsimposed by the client and the availability of site survey information. No physicaldisturbance or intervention was carried out on any part of the site, with the exceptionof limited sampling of vegetation for identification purposes. The study does notinclude detailed assessment of any buildings or their contents.

2.6 AuthorshipThis Conservation Management Plan has been prepared by Chris Betteridge ofMusecape Pty Ltd, heritage consultants. Chris Betteridge is a specialist in theconservation of significant cultural landscapes, particularly historic cemeteries. Forsix years until the end of 2000 he was Cemeteries Advisor to the National Trust ofAustralia (New South Wales).

As a consultant he has prepared or contributed to conservation management plansfor Gore Hill Memorial Cemetery, Waverley Cemetery, Wentworth Cemetery,Camperdown Cemetery, Fernmount Cemetery, Toragy Point Cemetery and thehistoric Allman Hill and Second Burying Grounds at Port Macquarie. Chris was co-author with Caroline Burke of the chapter on landscape in The Sleeping City: TheStory of Rookwood Necropolis (Weston, D (Ed.), 1989, Society of AustralianGenealogists in association with Hale & Iremonger, Sydney).

The ‘Draft Guidelines for the Preparation of Conservation Management Plans forCemeteries’ which Chris prepared with colleague David Beaver, have been used


since 1997 by the NSW Heritage Office as a pre-requisite for preparation byconsultants of such plans funded under the Heritage Assistance Program.

2.7 BudgetThe budget for preparation of this Conservation Management Plan was $6,490.00.

2.8 AcknowledgmentsThe author would like to thank the following individuals for their kind assistance withand interest in the preparation of this Plan.

Organisation NameCanterbury City Council Greg Ritchie, Manager – Environmental Policy

Warren Farleigh, Team Leader – Urban PlanningDiwei Luo, Strategic PlannerJoanne Tisdell, Landscape ArchitectChris Lenard, Corporate Support ManagerSteve Ridley, Team Leader – MaintenanceChris King, Local Studies LibrarianCatherine Hardie, Family History Librarian

Canterbury and DistrictHistorical Society

Lesley MuirBrian MaddenJoyce Ormsby


3 Documentary Evidence

3.1 Thematic ApproachThe NSW State Heritage Inventory identifies 35 themes, which signify historicalprocesses, but do not describe physical evidence or items in a study area. TheseState Themes are very general and many heritage items will relate to more than onetheme. They do however help us to understand the historical context of individualitems. The following State Themes are relevant to Moorefields Cemetery: Landtenure; Environment; Religion; Death and Persons. The Cemetery’s ability todemonstrate these themes is discussed in Section 3.5 below.

The Canterbury Heritage Study (Terry Kass & Meredith Walker, 1988) identifies localhistorical themes which may be regarded as sub-sets of the current State themes.Moorefields Cemetery is identified as evidence of the theme 6.3 “A healthy place tolive: provision of services which cure illness, repair injury – cemeteries; doctors;hospitals; ambulances; paramedical services; rubbish removal; controls over noxioustrades; controls of dairies and other food processors; Baby Health centres, 1859-1988”. Moorefields Cemetery is also identified as evidence of the theme 7.2“Meeting places: Establishment of social centres where people were able to interactand develop a sense both of community and of individual interest – shops, schools,halls, hotels, court house, churches, sporting clubs and/or facilities; FriendlySocieties; Schools of Arts, etc., 1850s-1980s”. The cemetery is associated withMoorefields Church, the first religious meeting place in the area (1851). MoorefieldsCemetery is also identified as providing evidence of the theme 7.3 “A sense ofcommunity: Local co-operative ventures, such as Roads Trust; Movement for andestablishment of municipal government, 1850s-1879”

3.2 Chronological Historical ContextA chronology of European occupation of the site in the context of relevant events inNew South Wales has been prepared and is shown in the table below.

Dates(s) Evidence InterpretationApril 1770 Officers with James Cook’s expedition make

first European explorations of the streamnow known as Cooks River

26 January1788

First Fleet arrives at Sydney Cove First permanent European settlement on eastcoast of Australia.

1793 100 acres of land granted to Rev. RichardJohnson and named Canterbury Vale

1795 First crop of wheat from Canterbury Vale1798 First known use of the name Cooks River1800 A vineyard, citrus and stone fruit orchard

and 24 acres of crops at Canterbury Vale,with 150 sheep and 30 men working afterWilliam Cox purchases property from Rev.Johnson

1802 Birth of Joseph Ward, believed to be the firstwhite child born in Canterbury

1803 Robert Campbell purchases CanterburyVale

1804 500 acres of land granted to HannahLaycock and named King’s Grove Farm

This is the first European settlement in the vicinityof the site now occupied by Moorefields Cemetery

1809 Attack by Aborigines on Bond’s Farm atpresent-day Punchbowl


Dates(s) Evidence Interpretation1810 Governor Lachlan Macquarie visits

Kingsgrove and Canterbury1818 James Chard arrives in New South Wales At least four generations of the Chard family are

buried at Moorefields Cemetery1823 Land grant to William Pithersc. mid 1820s James Chard arrives in Canterbury district1828 First thorough census of NSW1833 Cornelius Prout commences a punt service

across the Cooks River at Canterbury1834 Murderers of Dr Wardell of Petersham

captured on the farm of the late JudgeStephen on the Punchbowl Road

1840 Prout’s Bridge built across Cook’s River atCanterbury and Unwin’s Bridge built acrossriver at Tempe

1841 Canterbury Village commenced.Canterbury Sugar Works opened.Wesleyans purchase half an acre of land inMinter Street, Canterbury, erect a churchand commence a school.King’s Grove Farm subdivided for sale

The Wesleyan Church purchased their land fromthe Australasian Sugar Company for £30.0.0

1843 The Canterbury Arms becomes the district’sfirst licensed inn

1846 Canterbury Village has a population of 218,with 65 houses

1849 First Church of England service atCanterbury

1850 Evan Evans obtains first publican’s licencein the district, for the Man of Kent Inn

1851 Moorefields Methodist Church opensMoorefields CemeteryPopulation of Canterbury Village is 473, ofwhom 120 are listed as Wesleyans

John Chard gave the Wesleyans an acre of hisland on which to build the Moorfields (earlierspelling) Wesleyan Church

1850s Gold rushes in NSW

1853 Prout’s Bridge incident, involving JohnChard

1854 Canterbury Road proclaimed as a ParishRoad and its extension to Punchbowl Roadproposed

1855 Tompson’s Bridge at Undercliffe opened.Sugar Works closedEarliest recorded burials in MoorefieldsCemetery, those of Emma Lees and GeorgeTomkins

1856 Civil Registration of Births, Deaths andMarriages introduced in NSW.James Chard dies on 27 March and isburied in Moorefields Cemetery, land whichhe himself once owned.

Madden, Brian & Fay Golding, 1992, The Chardsof Kingsgrove and the Sly Family, Mrs FayGolding, Cronulla, NSW.

1858 First Canterbury Post Office opened

1860 Consecration of St Paul’s Church ofEngland, Canterbury

1861 Population of Canterbury Village declines to319

1862 Moorefields Public School opened1866 Henry Parkes’ Public Schools Act

introduced1868 The Necropolis at Haslem’s Creek

(Rookwood Cemetery) opened


Dates(s) Evidence Interpretation1869 Wagonette passenger service between

Canterbury Village and Sydney.Belmore Church (now St. Saviour’s Churchof England, Punchbowl) opened.Belmore Public School opened at presentday Punchbowl

1890 Burial of James Ridgewell, an early settlerfrom the 1840s

1891 An interment at Moorefields Cemetery costs£1.1.0 (one guinea).

1895 Burial of James Pithers, son of WilliamPithers who received a land grant in thearea in 1823

1901 Bushfire in the district destroys Churchrecords

1918 An allotment costs £i.0.0 (one pound) andan interment £1.7.6

1926 Linen Plan of Moorefields Cemetery dated10 August 1926

1929 An allotment and interment costs £4.5.0,discounted to £2.10.0

c. 1930 Cemetery Record Book compiled by MrArthur Miller, Church & Cemetery Treasurer

1936 Additions to Cemetery Plan marked in red inAugust 1936

1950 An allotment costs £3.0.01951 Moorefields Church celebrates its

Centenary1959 No new ground for sale in the Cemetery.

Two lots being held by Trustees foremergencies.A burial costs £2.0.0, made up of £1.0.0 forthe Trust, 10 shillings for the minister and 10shillings for the agent.

Trust publishes “Information in respect to Burialsin the Moorfields Methodist Cemetery” (seeAppendix E)

1962 Cemetery Record Book compiled by P WCant, Miller’s successor as Church &Cemetery Treasurer

1967 Moorefields Church demolished andreplaced by new Uniting Church

Late 1960s Moorefields Cemetery acquired byCanterbury CouncilChurch property acquired by Arab GospelChurch

1974 List of burials in Section A1 compiled Section A1 is a section created from the formercarriageway to create additional burial space.Lots in this section are mostly 3 feet wide, 6inches narrower than in the older sections

1981 Known burials in Moorefields Cemetery putat 1,155, but actual number probably higher

Some burials had no permanent markers andmany headstones have been vandalised over theyears

1983 Burial records compiled by Joyce Ormsbypublished by Canterbury & District HistoricalSociety

Publication lists all known burials as at April 1981,with plots listed against names of those buriedand details of dates of death and burial, age ofdeceased if known, presence or absence ofheadstone and some information aboutmonuments

1988 Canterbury Heritage Study Final Report1989 Landscape plan prepared and implemented

by Canterbury Council.New boundary fence erected along MarambaClose boundary. Trees planted around perimeterof site and in centre. Signs erected at gate.

1994 National Trust of Australia (NSW) classifiesMoorefields Cemetery

While listing on the Register of the National Trustprovides no statutory protection, it is recognitionof the place’s heritage significance by a majorcommunity-based conservation organistaion.


Dates(s) Evidence Interpretation2001 Council’s Landscape Architect Joanne

Tisdell, in collaboration with National Trustof Australia (NSW) prepareLandscape/Conservation Plan for Cemetery.Conservation Management Plancommissioned

Landscape/Conservation Plan recommendsvarious works to improve the appearance of thesite and conserve its heritage values.

2002 Conservation Management Plan forMoorefields Cemetery in preparation.All headstones photographed digitally.Trees in Cemetery crown lifted to improveaccess to graves.

The trees planted in 1989 were obscuring anumber of graves and making visitor accessdifficult

Present Conservation Management Plan completed.Images of headstones and inscriptionspublished on Council’s website, along withthose for other historic cemeteries in thelocal government area.

3.3 Burial StatisticsThe 1,155 burials known to have taken place at Moorefields Cemetery by 1981comprised the following:

Age range Number of burialsNo age stated 227Babies under 12months

122

1 to 5 years 526 to 9 years 2410 to 21 years 4222 to 50 years 14951 to 69 years 19470 to 79 years 17880 to 100 years 166101 years 1Total 1,155

3.4 Monumental Masons and Funeral DirectorsMonumental masons whose work is represented in Moorefeilds cemetery includeTaylor & Son, Sydney; E Coxhead, Cleveland St., Sydney; F Arnold, Sydney; WHanson, Marrickville and Andrews Bros, Sydney.

Funeral directors who conducted business at the Cemetery included DignifiedFunerals, Walters & Son, Labor Motor Funerals and R W Hilton Pty Ltd.


3.5 Ability to DemonstrateCemeteries are microcosms of the communities which developed them. They notonly contain the human remains of past members of those communities, but theyreflect the religious beliefs, genealogical backgrounds, levels of affluence, artistictastes and creative accomplishments of the people who made up thosecommunities.

In their layout and plantings many cemeteries exhibit symbolisms relating to death,mourning, grief and beliefs in everlasting life. Funerary monuments demonstrate theskills of the artisans who produced them, the social standing and beliefs of thedeparted and the tastes of the period. Inscriptions on headstones provideconsiderable biographical information about people, their occupations, their ethnicityand, in some cases, the manner of their deaths.

With appropriate interpretive mechanisms, the surviving landscape at MoorefieldsCemetery can help to demonstrate the thematic historical phases relevant to theplace.

Land tenureThe cemetery demonstrates the evolution of a cultural landscape from the mid 19th

century to the present day.

EnvironmentThe cemetery is a cultural landscape in a modified environment with funerarymonuments and ornamental plantings.

ReligionThe cemetery demonstrates Protestant Christian burial practices andmemorialisation of the dead.

DeathThe cemetery is a cultural landscape associated with the burial of the dead.

PersonsThe cemetery is associated with many significant individuals and families in thedevelopment of Kingsgrove, the Canterbury City local government area and NewSouth Wales.


4 Physical Evidence

4.1 The Environmental ContextKingsgrove is located in Canterbury City Council LGA, approximately kilometressouthwest of the City of Sydney.

Moorefields Cemetery is located at 98-100 Moorefields Road, Kingsgrove, to the rearof the former Methodist Church (now Arab Gospel Church), with pedestrian accessfrom the southeast via Maramba Close.

4.2 Identification of Existing FabricThe present cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is the result of more thanone hundred and fifty years of human manipulation of the natural environment.

4.2.1 MonumentsThe monuments are a mix of types and styles, including sandstone stelaeheadstones and footstones, more elaborate Victorian monuments, a few in ironenclosures and a wide range of desk and slab type memorials.

4.2.2 Layout and pathsMoorefields Cemetery is a rectangular area approximately 140 metres x 85 metres.The monuments in the cemetery are arranged in 13 sections, designated A, A1, B toL, and arranged from southeast to northwest. The width of the plots in Section A1 is3 feet (0.9 metre), those in the older sections 3 feet 6 inches (1.052 metre), unlessindicated otherwise in the Church Records Book. The plot layout and open spaceanalysis, prepared by Council’s Landscape Architect, Joanne Tisdell, are shown inthe diagram on the following page (Fig. 2).

4.2.3 Fences and gatesSome of the monuments at Moorefields Cemetery are enclosed by traditionalwrought iron or cast iron fence surrounds. On three sides the cemetery is boundedby residential and / or church properties, domestic fences. The street frontage isbounded by a recent metal picket fence on a sandstone dwarf wall.

4.2.4 Ornamental PlantingsMoorefields Cemetery is landscaped with a mix of Australian and introducedornamental tree species, planted as part of a Landscape Plan implemented byCanterbury Council in 1989. While the trees were mostly planted around theperimeter of the site, some specimens of Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm) wereplanted among the graves in the centre of the cemetery and in the southern corner,where they were threatening damage to some monuments and preventing easyaccess to some graves. Crown lifting of these trees in 2002 has reduced theproblem greatly.

4.2.5 Archival MaterialArchives are the documents and other records resulting from the operation oradministration of an organisation. In the case of a cemetery, archival material may


include burial records, minutes of trust meetings, cashbooks, staff records, plans,drawings and photographs. This Conservation Management Plan makes

Fig. 2 Moorefields Cemetery Plot Layout and Open Space Analysis(Source: Landscape Sketch plan L436, Issue A, drawn by Joanne Tisdell, 28February 2001)


recommendations for the safe storage and conservation of archival material. Ideally,originals should be kept securely in a repository such as the local council library, withcopies of significant items retained in a separate location.

Burial records for Moorefields Cemetery are kept in the local studies section ofCouncil’s Library at 14-28 Amy Street, Campsie. Monument inscriptions have beentranscribed and published by Canterbury & District Historical Society (Ormsby,Joyce, (1983), Moorfields Cemetery Records).

Canterbury City Council archives and files contain various material relating to thehistory of the cemetery and to relatively recent conservation and management worksat Moorefields Cemetery. Original records were destroyed in a fire in 1901, andthose records extant have been compiled since then.

4.3 Physical ConditionThe overall appearance of the Cemetery is one of ‘scorched earth’, suggestingheavy application of herbicides with long residual action in the past. The condition ofthe surviving funerary monuments varies from excellent to fair. Tree roots havecaused damage to some monuments and soil movement and/or erosion has affectedothers. There is considerable evidence of vandalism to monuments, resulting indisplaced and broken stelae. The condition of ornamental plantings is generallygood. Trees were crown lifted during 2002, improving sightlines within the Cemeteryand visitor access to graves under the trees.


5 Assessment of Cultural Significance5.1 MethodologyThere are numerous methodologies for the assessment of cultural significance, butthe one used in this report is that prepared for the New South Wales Department ofUrban Affairs and Planning and the Heritage Council of New South Wales andincluded in the NSW Heritage Manual. The methodology involves the application ofvarious criteria relating to historical associations, aesthetic values, communityesteem and educational/research potential, together with measures of the level ofsignificance. The criteria for assessment are those recently developed by the NSWHeritage Office for the State Heritage Register.

Cemeteries are microcosms of the communities which developed them. They notonly contain the human remains of the past members of those communities, but theyreflect the religious beliefs, genealogical backgrounds, levels of affluence, artistictastes and creative accomplishments of the people who made up thosecommunities.

In their layout, monuments and plantings many cemeteries exhibit symbolismsrelating to death, mourning, grief and beliefs in everlasting life. Funerary monumentsdemonstrate the skills of the artisans who produced them, the social standing andbeliefs of the departed and the tastes of the period. Inscriptions on headstonesprovide considerable biographical information about people, their occupations, theirethnicity and, in some cases, the manner of their deaths.

Historical significance of a cemetery may relate to the human settlement of anarea, patterns of immigration, maritime history, overseas military actions, epidemicsand other health matters, important events and individuals, natural disasters andtragedies such as mining accidents.

Social significance of a cemetery may be derived from the esteem in which theplace or certain parts of it are held by the local community, or by recognisablegroups within the community. Examples include the graves of early pioneers or thosekilled in wars, or whole cemeteries which have been conserved by community action.

Aesthetic significance of a cemetery may result from the symbolism, quality ofworkmanship and artistic merit of the funerary monuments and structures within theplace and from the siting, landscape design and plantings.

Educational and Research significance of a cemetery may result from theopportunities the place provides for interpretation and further study for present andfuture generations.

Technological significance may be derived from the information a cemetery mayprovide about construction techniques, unusual craft skills and types of expertisewhich are being lost as a result of social changes or technological advances.

Cemeteries may also have specific religious significance or scientific value.Some contain burial plots devoted to the deceased members of particular religious


orders such as the Jesuits or the Carmelite nuns. Some cemeteries supportremnants of indigenous plant communities which have disappeared fromsurrounding areas as a result of clearing for agriculture or grazing or because ofapplication of different management regimes.

Other important measures of the significance of cemeteries are theirrepresentativeness and rarity as examples of particular types. While eachcemetery is unique, many will share common characteristics and will exhibit similartypes of significance. This is particularly the case within a region where there may bea certain type of stone used for monuments or where several cemeteries mayfeature the work of one or a few local monumental masons.

The cultural landscape at Moorfileds Cemetery is of local and State heritagesignificance as a place with historical, social, architectural, cultural, archaeological,and aesthetic significance for the Canterbury City local government area and for theState of New South Wales. It satisfies most if not all of the seven criteria establishedunder the NSW Heritage Act (as amended in 1998) for inclusion on the StateHeritage Register.

Criterion A - An item is important in the course, or pattern, of NSW’s cultural ornatural history.The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is important in the course andpattern of the cultural history of New South Wales because of its historicalassociations and significant documentary and physical evidence of the evolution ofthe place. The Cemetery contains the remains of former convicts and of Aboriginalpeople, as well as some burials that pre-date Civil Registration of births, deaths andmarriages in NSW.

Criterion B - An item has strong or special association with the life or works ofa person, or group of persons, of importance in NSW’s cultural or naturalhistory.The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is historically significant at a locallevel for its strong associations with a number of individuals and families important inthe development of the Canterbury City Council area. The cemetery has strongassociations with significant individuals in the establishment and development of theKingsgrove area.

Criterion C - An item is important in demonstrating aesthetic characteristicsand / or a high degree of creative or technical achievement in NSW.The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is important in demonstratingaesthetic characteristics in New South Wales. The funerary monuments at thecemetery include fine examples of monumental masonry in a range of types andstyles representative of their period. For such a relatively small burial ground, itdisplays an unusually diverse array of monumental types and designs.

Criterion D - An item has strong or special association with a particularcommunity or cultural group in NSW for social, cultural or spiritual reasons.The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery has strong associations with pastand contemporary communities of the Kingsgrove and South Belmore area for socialand cultural reasons. The many early settler burials provide a genealogical link to


the present community that is being increasingly recognized as people research theirfamily histories. The place is held in high esteem by significant groups within thepresent day community.

Criterion E - An item has potential to yield information that will contribute to anunderstanding of NSW cultural or natural history.It is considered that further research of the physical and documentary evidencerelated Moorefields Cemetery has the potential to contribute to a widerunderstanding of European occupation of New South Wales, from the mid 19th

century to the present day. Further research of the monuments and the burialrecords can lead to better interpretation of the history and heritage significance of theplaces, contributing to wider and better understanding of our past.

Criterion F - An item possesses uncommon, rare or endangered aspects ofNSW’s cultural or natural history.By virtue of its historical associations with important persons and events in thedevelopment of the Canterbury City local government area, Moorefields Cemeterypossesses rare aspects of the area’s cultural history. Some of the burials pre-date1856, the year of introduction of Civil Registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages inNew South Wales.

Criterion G - An item is important in demonstrating the principalcharacteristics of a class of NSW’s cultural or natural places or environments.Moorefields Cemetery demonstrates the principal characteristics of a class of thecultural places of New South Wales (Criterion G). It is representative of smalldenominational burial grounds dating from the mid-nineteenth century.

5.2 Comparative AnalysisWhile every cemetery is unique because it contains the remains of people differentfrom those in every other cemetery, many cemeteries share similar layouts,monumental styles and regional character. However, Moorefields Cemetery can becompared with other cemeteries in the local government area e.g. St Saviour’sCemetery, at the rear of 1353 Canterbury Road, Punchbowl and with cemeteries ofsimilar age in other areas. While further research may reveal other burial grounds ofsimilar date and with a similar variety of monumental types and styles, the historyand historical associations of Moorefields Cemetery are unique to it.

5.3 Determination of Curtilage

5.3.1 Definition of CurtilageCurtilage is defined in the Macquarie Dictionary (2nd Edition, 1991) as ‘the area ofland occupied by a dwelling and its yard and outbuildings, actually enclosed orconsidered as enclosed.’ This definition does not take into account the importanceof the setting of a heritage item, which may include a substantial garden orlandscape and views and vistas to and from the item. There have been numerousand varied legal determinations of curtilages for heritage buildings and heritageconservation practitioners have grappled with the problem for many years. Many ofthese opinions and attempts at solving the issue of curtilage are described in thepublication Heritage Curtilages (Heritage Council/Department of Urban Affairs andPlanning, 1996), a companion volume to the NSW Heritage Manual.


Essentially, the curtilage of a heritage item is that area of land necessary to enableits significance to be conserved in context and to enable its heritage value to beinterpreted adequately. This area is usually but not always the lot or lots on whichthe item stands and, for statutory purposes, is usually but not always restricted toland in the same ownership as the item. The boundaries for an adequate curtilagemay be the historic lot boundaries or a smaller area resulting from previoussubdivision(s). They may also include adjoining lands critical to retention of viewsand vistas, although these values may sometimes be conserved through planningcontrols other than those used to protect the item and its immediate setting.

Definition of a curtilage for an historic place does not preclude development within itsbounds, but requires particular care in the consideration of the nature and extent ofsuch development. However, given the relatively small size of the cemetery and thatthere may be unmarked burials anywhere in the cemetery, developments other thanburials, interpretive material and landscaping works are not recommended.

5.3.2 Recommended Curtilage for Moorefields CemeteryIt is recommended that the curtilage for Moorefields Cemetery be Lot 2, DP 594305,known as 96A Moorefields Road, Kingsgrove.

5.4 Statement of Significance

5.4.1 Statement for Moorefields CemeteryThe cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is of local and State heritagesignificance as a place with historical, social, architectural, cultural, aesthetic andarchaeological significance for the Canterbury City local government area and theState of New South Wales. It satisfies most if not all of the seven criteria establishedunder the NSW Heritage Act (as amended in 1998) for inclusion on the StateHeritage Register.

The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is important in the course andpattern of the cultural history of New South Wales because of its historicalassociations and significant documentary and physical evidence of the evolution ofthe place (Criterion A).

Moorefields Cemetery is historically significant at a State level for its strongassociations with a number of individuals and families important in the developmentof the Canterbury City Council area and New South Wales. (Criterion B).

In the range of monument styles and the quality of craftsmanship MoorefieldsCemetery is important in demonstrating aesthetic characteristics in New SouthWales (Criterion C).

The landscape of Moorefields Cemetery has strong associations with past andcontemporary communities of the Kinsgrove area for social and cultural reasons.The place is held in high esteem by significant groups within the present daycommunity. (Criterion D)


It is considered that further research of the physical and documentary evidencerelated to Moorefields Cemetery has the potential to contribute to a widerunderstanding of European occupation of New South Wales, from the mid 19th

century to the present day. (Criterion E)

By virtue of its date of commencement and historical associations with importantpersons and events in the development of the Canterbury City local governmentarea, Moorefields Cemetery possesses rare aspects of the State’s cultural history.(Criterion F). Each cemetery is unique since it contains the buried remains ofpersons different from any other place.

Moorefields Cemetery -demonstrates the principal characteristics of a class of thecultural places of New South Wales (Criterion G). It is representative of smalldenominational burial grounds dating from the mid-nineteenth century.

5.5 Identification of Significant Elements

5.5.1 Grading of SignificanceGrading of significance is in accordance with the NSW Heritage Manual update‘Assessing Heritage Significance’ (NSW Heritage Office, August 2000). Gradingsare shown in the table below.

Grading Justification StatusExceptional Rare or outstanding item of local or State

significance. High degree of intactness. Itemcan be interpreted relatively easily.

Fulfils criteria for local or Statelisting.

High High degree of original fabric.Demonstrates a key element of the item’ssignificance.Alterations do not detract from significance.


Moderate Altered or modified elements.Elements with little heritage value, but whichcontribute to the overall significance of theitem.


Little Alterations detract from significance.Difficult to interpret.

Does not fulfil criteria for local orState listing.

Intrusive Damaging to the item’s heritage significance. Does not fulfil criteria for local orState listing.

5.5.2 Assessment of Elements

Exceptional Curtilage, early funerary monuments and thoseexhibiting a high degree of aesthetic value,monuments of significant persons, includingthe following:Lees, Emma (1855, Section A.10), earliest knownburial;Chard, James (1856, Section A.7), very earlypioneer, grave marked by sandstone stele;Pithers, James (1895, Section A3-4), ;Peake, John Robert (1886, Section D17-19),suburb of Peakhurst named after him, gravemarked by obelisk in iron fenced enclosure;


Exceptional cont. Beamish, Francis Hill(1907, Section B.8), ateacher at the old Moorefields Public School;Homer, Henry (1900, Section A.70-71), namegiven to Homer Street);Ridgewell, James (1890, Section C.4-6), earlysettler, circa 1840s;Evans, Evan (1896, Section E.27-28), obtainedthe first Publican’s licence in the district, for the‘man of Kent’ Inn;Humphrey, Martha (1906, Section G.29-30, tallsquare black mottled marble pillar with draped urnsurmount, in iron rail enclosure), ran the‘Gardener’s Arms’ Inn;Bown, Stephen (1885?, Section D.3-4), ran the‘Robin Hood and Little John’ Inn;Pioneering families buried in the Cemetery includeParkes, Kemp, Smithson, Gabb, Norton,Tomkins;Sly family involved in the introduction of theAustralian Surf Life Saving movement;Unmarked graves of convicts and Aborigines.

Moderate to High Majority of 20th century desk and slab typemonuments

Little or no Trees in Cemetery including 1989 plantings ofornamental species, including Chinese Elm,Aleppo Pine and English ElmWall and fence along Maramba Close boundaryRecent signsTimber paling fencing along part of easternboundary

Intrusive Metal panel fencing to cemetery boundaries

5.6 State Heritage Inventory formListing on the State Heritage Register or in the State Heritage Inventory requirescompletion of a State Heritage Inventory form for submission to the NSW HeritageOffice. A completed draft form for Moorefields cemetery is at Appendix B.


6 Issues, Constraints and Opportunities

6.1 Constraints arising from Cultural SignificanceItems of State heritage significance should be managed in a way that retains theiridentified cultural and natural values. Conservation of Moorefields Cemeterytherefore requires:

• Respect for historical associations and aesthetic values;• Respect for the cemetery as a part of the significant cultural landscape of

Canterbury City;• Conservation and management of physical evidence of high and moderate

significance;• Conservation of the landscape in which the cemetery is located;• Physical protection of significant archaeological relics;• On-site interpretation which enhances visitor understanding and appreciation of

the cemetery’s history, fabric as well as the values of the setting;• Consideration of the significance of the cemetery in the context of the region

and New South Wales.

6.2 Constraints arising from the Burra Charter of AustraliaICOMOS

In Australia the adopted best practice standard for the conservation of significantplaces is a document known as The Burra Charter (The Australia ICOMOS Charterfor Places of Cultural Significance). This Charter, most recently revised in November1999, promotes the application of internationally accepted standards for physicalactions and procedures for the conservation of significant places, adapted to suit theAustralian cultural environment. This Conservation Management Plan has beenprepared in accordance with these principles. Articles of the Burra Charter relevantto State significant cemeteries include the following:

Article 2. Conservation and Management• The aim of conservation is to retain the cultural significance of a place (Article

2.2). This means that the history and cultural significance of a cemetery needs tobe fully understood before any conservation works take place.

• Places of cultural significance should be safeguarded and not put at risk or left ina vulnerable state. (Article 2.4).

This means that a management authority responsible for cemeteries should ensurethat adequate maintenance is provided, particularly where cemeteries are ‘in avulnerable state’ due to overuse, erosion or neglect.

Article 3. Cautious Approach• Conservation is based on respect for the existing fabric, use, associations and

meanings. It requires a cautious approach of changing as much as necessaryand as little as possible (Article 3.1).

• Remnants of alterations and earlier treatments are evidence of a cemetery’shistory that may be part of its significance. Conservation works should assist inthe interpretation of this history.


This means that cemetery fabric that has been identified as having a certain level ofsignificance should be retained if possible where upgrading works are proposed. Insituations where significant fabric needs to be removed then it may need to bearchivally recorded (such as through measured drawings and photographs).

Article 4. Knowledge, Skills and Techniques• Conservation should make use of all the knowledge, skills and disciplines

which can contribute to the study and care of the place. (Article 4.1)

Typical skills and disciplines that may be required to manage and conservecemeteries of State significance will include monumental masonry, stone masonry,landscaping, metal fabrication, carpentry, surveying, structural engineering, buildingand project management. Specialist conservators may be required to treat materialsof special significance.

Traditional techniques and materials are preferred for the conservation of significantfabric. In some circumstances modern techniques and materials which offersubstantial conservation benefits may be appropriate. (Article 4.2)

Article 5. Values• Conservation of a place should identify and take into consideration all aspects

of cultural and natural significance, without unwarranted emphasis on any onevalue at the expense of others. (Article 5.1)

• Relative degrees of cultural significance may lead to different conservationactions at a Place (Article 5.2)

It is necessary for cemetery managers to have an understanding of the comparativesignificance of various fabric types to ensure that the most important examples areconserved. This will also assist in the setting of priorities for maintenance andrestoration works. However it must be appreciated that the values placed onparticular items may change with time and a cautious approach is needed.

Article 6. Burra Charter process

• The cultural significance of a place and other issues affecting its future arebest understood by a sequence of collecting and analysing information beforemaking decisions. Understanding cultural significance comes first, thendevelopment of policy and finally management of the place in accordance withthe policy. (Article 6.1)

This Conservation Management Plan has been prepared in accordance with theabove principle. The NSW Heritage System has also adopted this process forconservation of significant places.

Article 7. Use• Where the use of a place is of cultural significance it should be retained (Article

7.1).


Whether a cemetery is still operational or closed to burials its use as a place ofremembrance and memorialisation of the dead should be retained whereverpossible. In the past, the conversion of many cemeteries to ‘pioneer parks’ and ‘restparks’ has resulted in major loss of significance through destruction of fabric,alteration of character and loss of context.

Article 8. Setting• Conservation requires the retention of an appropriate visual setting and other

relationships that contribute to the cultural significance of the place. Newconstruction, demolition, intrusions, or other changes that would adversely affectthe setting or relationship are not appropriate (Article 8)

This means that care must be taken in the development and management of thesurroundings of the cemetery. For instance, a cemetery is a sacred place, for quietcontemplation and remembrance. It would be inappropriate to have unsympatheticadjoining development such as a fast food outlet or car yard.

Article 22. New Work• New work such as additions to the place may be acceptable where it does not

distort or obscure the cultural significance of the place, or detract from itsinterpretation and appreciation. (Article 22.1)

This means that new development, if permissible under the ConservationManagement Plan and other controls, should be sympathetic to the character of thecemetery.

• New work should be readily identifiable as such. (Article 22.2) Identification ofnew work may be obvious by virtue of its architectural design or discreetlymarked in some way e.g. a date marked unobtrusively on new fabric or repairwork.

Article 24. Retaining associations and meanings• Significant associations between people and place should be respected, retained

and not obscured. Opportunities for the interpretation, commemoration andcelebration of these associations should be investigated and implemented (Article24.1).

Cemeteries are places of burial and memorialisation of the dead. Their managementmust respect the views of descendants of those buried and seek to include them indecision making about management and interpretation. This can be facilitated byestablishment of ‘friends’ groups and consultation with relevant communityorganizations such as churches, historical societies and genealogical groups.

Article 27. Managing Change• The impact of proposed changes on the cultural significance of a place should be

analysed with reference to the statement of significance and the policy formanaging the place. it may be necessary to modify proposed changes followinganalysis to better retain cultural significance. (Article 27.1).


This means that development proposals need to be informed by the statement ofsignificance and the conservation policies arising from it. Amendments to proposalsmay be necessary if the significance is to be retained. A community group may havea brilliant idea for a new set of gates or a memorial pavilion, but their proposal mayneed to be altered to ensure it is sympathetic to the heritage values of the cemetery.

• Existing fabric, use, associations and meanings should be adequately recordedbefore any changes are made to the place. (Article 27.2).

In the past, much valuable evidence has been destroyed in cemeteries becausechanges have not been recorded sufficiently. For instance, Council does not have acomplete record of the appearance of the cemetery prior to changes carried out byCouncil or at Council’s request.

Article 32. Records• Records about the history of a place should be protected and made publicly

available subject to requirements of security and privacy, and where this isculturally appropriate. (Article 32.2).

For burials prior to civil registration of births, deaths and marriages in 1856, theinformation on a headstone may be the only surviving record of an individual.Consequently, it is essential that transcribed information be kept in a secure place.Original documents such as burial records are irreplaceable and should also be keptin a secure place, with copies held at another site and available for research, subjectto privacy requirements. For instance, a copy of original records held by CanterburyCity Council should be kept at the Canterbury and District Historical Society.Consideration should be given to deposit of further copies in the Mitchell Library andat The Society of Australian Genealogists.

6.3 Statutory Constraints and Obligations arising from Non-statutory listings

6.3.1 Australian Heritage Commission Act, 1975Listing on the Register of the National Estate is recognition of significance at aNational level and has implications in respect of actions by Commonwealthauthorities.

Moorfields [sic] Methodist Cemetery, 98-100 Moorefields Road, Kingsgrove, is listedas an Indicative Place on the Register of the National Estate Database. (Databasenumber 101999, file number 1/16/01/0007). A copy of the listing is at Appendix A.Such listing indicates that data provided to or obtained by the Australian HeritageCommission has been entered into the database and the place is at some stage inthe assessment process. The Commission has not made a decision on whether theplace should be entered in the Register.

The Australian Heritage Commission Act requires that developments proposed bysuch authorities affecting places on the Register must be referred to the AustralianHeritage Commission for comment. This also applies to projects entirely or partlyfunded by the Commonwealth.


Legislation to introduce a new Commonwealth heritage regime was before theSenate at the time the Government announced the November 2001 Federal election.Amendments to existing legislation, if approved by Parliament, provide for theestablishment of an Australian Heritage Council and a new National Heritage List ofplaces of outstanding heritage significance for the nation and a CommonwealthHeritage List of places owned or managed by the Commonwealth. The Register ofthe National Estate will continue to be maintained as a publicly accessible database,modernised and upgraded to ensure its continued availability for the identificationand protection of heritage.

As items of State significance, the cemeteries covered by this Plan are eligible forinclusion on the Register of the National Estate and nomination for the Registershould be considered.

RecommendationThe cemetery covered by this Plan should be nominated for listing on the Register ofthe National Estate.

NoteIt should be noted that recent changes to Commonwealth heritage legislation mayresult in delays in assessment of places but there will continue to be a list of placesof national significance.

6.3.2 NSW Heritage Act 1977 and Heritage Amendment Act 1998The Heritage Act and Heritage Amendment Act provide various mechanisms for thestatutory protection of items of environmental heritage in New South Wales. ThisConservation Management Plan includes a draft State Heritage Inventory (SHI)nomination form for inclusion of the cemetery on the State Heritage Register.

Historic cemetery fabric such as headstones may be considered as ‘relics’ under theprovisions of the Act. The inclusion of a cemetery on the State Heritage Registerunder the Heritage Amendment Act 1998 will afford the place a degree of protectionsimilar to that previously available under a permanent conservation order. Astandard set of exemptions allows for management in accordance with aConservation Management Plan endorsed by the Heritage Council of NSW.

RecommendationThe cemetery covered by this Plan should be nominated for listing on the StateHeritage Register. A draft State Heritage Inventory (SHI) form for the cemetery is atAppendix B.

6.3.3 NSW Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979The Department of Urban Affairs & Planning administers the NSW EnvironmentalPlanning & Assessment Act, 1979. This Act provides for the preparation ofenvironmental planning instruments to guide land use and management at StateRegional and Local levels. In regard to the management of cultural heritageresources, the Act provides for environmental assessment of development proposalsand for the inclusion of heritage conservation provisions in planning instruments.


A 1985 NSW Government planning direction, “conservation of environmentalheritage and ecologically significant items and areas” obliges local governmentauthorities to include provisions for the conservation of buildings, works, relics,places and areas of heritage significance.

Moorefields Cemetery was identified as an item of the environmental heritage in theCanterbury Heritage Study 1988 and is listed in the Heritage Schedule to CanterburyPlanning Scheme Ordinance (CPSO) 1970. The Cemetery is zoned Residential “A”under the Ordinance.

RecommendationIt is recommended that any amendments to the curtilage or description of thecemetery covered by this Plan be included in the schedule of heritage items on theCPSO and any subsequent planning instruments.

It is recommended that Council consider a more appropriate zoning such as SpecialUses (Cemetery) for the site.

6.3.4 Occupational Health & Safety RequirementsThe Occupational Health and Safety Act 1983, as amended, has the broadobjectives of securing the health, safety and welfare of persons at work. It isexpected that all employees of, contractors to and volunteers for Canterbury CityCouncil undertaking works on the cemeteries will be protected under the provisionsof this Act. Some of the recommended works may be carried out in potentiallyhazardous situations e.g. lifting heavy slabs of stone. It is essential that the highestpossible safety standards be adhered to in these instances.

6.3.5 National Trust of Australia (New South Wales)Moorefields Cemetery is Classified on the Register of the National Trust of Australia(New South Wales). While such listing carries no statutory implications, it isrecognition by a major community-based conservation organisation that the placehas heritage significance. There is a moral obligation on the owners/managers ofthe places to manage them to conserve their significance. Copies of the NationalTrust listing cards are at Appendix A.

6.3.6 Australian StandardsAustralian Standard AS 4204-1994 Headstones and cemetery monuments specifiesthe minimum structural design criteria, performance and renovation requirements forcemetery monuments and crematoria memorial gardens. The Standard notes thatwork on monuments of cultural significance should be carried out in accordance withthe Burra Charter and its Guidelines (Australia ICOMOS, 1988) and acknowledgesthat such monuments may require approaches and conservation proceduresdifferent from those in the Standard. The Standard should apply to new monumentsalthough these are unlikely to be constructed in either of the subject cemeteries.Works to existing monuments should be guided by the Burra Charter and itsGuidelines. It should be noted that the Burra Charter and its Guidelines wererevised in November 1999 i.e. since the Standard was released.


6.3.7 Skeletal RemainsIf human skeletal remains should be revealed by accident, chance or deliberatevandalism, then these remains, the burials and any associated artefacts may besubject to different acts and requirements depending on the circumstances.

If the remains appear to be recent and may be forensic, the Coroner’s Act, 1980,applies and the Police should be contacted.

If the remains are identified as Aboriginal and are not recent, the National Parks andWildlife Act, 1974 (as amended 1989) is relevant and the National Parks and WildlifeService should be contacted.

If the remains are non-Aboriginal and estimated to be more than 50 years old, theHeritage Act, 1977 (as amended 1987) applies and the NSW Heritage Office shouldbe contacted.

If a member of the public wishes to have the remains of a relative exhumed andmoved to another place, the Public Health Act, 1991 and the Public HealthRegulation 1991 apply. Contact should be made with the local public health unit ofthe NSW Department of Health.

More information about human skeletal remains can be found in the publicationSkeletal Remains: Guidelines for the Management of Human Skeletal Remainsunder the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW Heritage Office, 1998)

6.4 Canterbury Council Management Requirements

6.4.1 BurialsThere is little apparent space left in the cemetery for burials, however plots with nomonuments may be the sites of unmarked graves. This can be tested by probingwith a grave digger or by using ground penetrating radar. The placement of ashes ispermitted. Inurnment, particularly of the ashes of deceased descendants of thoseburied in the cemetery could be one way of maintaining community interest in theplace and its management. Memorialisation of cremated remains would need to bedone in ways that do not detract from the heritage significance of the place.

6.4.2 Constraints imposed by land tenure or zoningMoorefields Cemetery is under the care, control and management of Canterbury CityCouncil. The land is zoned Residential “A” under Canterbury Planning SchemeOrdinance 1970.

The existing zoning is not considered to be sympathetic to the conservation of thesite.

6.5 Constraints imposed by available resourcesThe maintenance budget for the 12 months 2001 / 2002 for Moorefields Cemeterywas $1,545, with $1,584 allocated for 2002 / 2003. The single staff memberassigned to the Cemetery spends most of the time pruning and weeding. Councilhas spent about $6,000 in recent times on new fencing, brickwork and gardening.


There are many demands on the resources available to Council and it is unlikely thatthe Council will ever have sufficient resources to carry out all of the necessaryconservation and management tasks required for both the cemeteries. ConsequentlyCouncil must prioritise its management in accordance with levels of significance,safety issues, use levels, urgency of works, accurate estimates of maintenance costsand available resources.

The use of trained volunteers to assist in maintenance and interpretation wouldreduce the burden on Council. Council should continue to seek financial assistancefrom State and Federal Government sources for the ongoing management andinterpretation of Moorefields Cemetery.

RecommendationsIt is recommended that Council allocate additional funds in a future works budget toallow for implementation of the management recommendations in this ConservationManagement Plan (e.g. repairs to damaged monuments, installation of interpretivesignage, landscape improvements).

6.6 Constraints Arising from Physical ConditionWhile it is important not to confuse condition with significance, the condition of agrave monument or inscription affects its ability to memorialise the departed and tointerpret the history of the place, as well as having financial implications forconservation. Similarly, the condition and vigour of a tree affects its ability to surviveand make a positive contribution to the landscape of the site.

Decisions about the future of particular monuments and landscape elements need tobe based on their relative significance as individual items, as elements of the totalsite landscape and on their condition. The physical condition of the landscapeelements in Moorefields Cemetery varies from excellent to poor.

Following sections provide specific details of the physical condition of the fabric forthe cemetery. Typical physical conditions requiring action include the following:• damage to monuments arising from past management practices e.g. previous

repairs, use of herbicides, planting of trees; past acts of vandalism; subsidenceand natural deterioration of fabric;

• Biological growth on stone monuments e. g. algae, lichens;• decay and dead wood in significant trees (potential entry point for infections,

visual impact);• eroded surfaces around monuments;• exposed tree roots, causing physical damage to monuments and potential trip

hazards.

6.7 Opportunities for Further EvidenceDocumentary evidence relating to cemeteries, including historical archives, is animportant part of their significance. Protection of this evidence should be addressedin developing conservation and management policies.


6.8 Monitoring of Visitor Use and Cemetery ConditionVisitor monitoring is an essential tool to aid management decisions. It is important toknow something about the visitors to the cemetery for they may well be critical to itssurvival. Who uses the cemetery? How do they get there? How often do they visitand how long do they stay? What is the main purpose of their visit? What are theirlikes and dislikes about the cemetery and what improvements would they like tosee?

A sample survey form on a single-sided A4 sheet is included as Appendix C. Thiscan be adapted for use in a short face-to-face interview, left at a convenient point forself-completion by visitors or mailed out to people who enquire about the location ofgraves, family history, etc. Sample size should be as large as possible to improvethe statistical validity of the results. If possible, fifty or more survey forms should becompleted by visitors and the survey should be conducted to include weekdays andweekends since patterns of use often vary. The results obtained can be analysedand the information collected presented in diagrammatic form if appropriate softwareis available. Most recent versions of word-processing packages have the facility topresent data in the form of graphs or pie charts.

Visitors often advise of any problems associated with places they visit. This sort offeedback and regular monitoring of the condition of the cemeteries should be builtinto the maintenance program. This will not only alert Canterbury City Council topotential hazards and other problems but will assist in reducing costs by allowing apro-active approach to management.

6.9 Interpretive OpportunitiesWhile the aesthetic values and some of the historical associations of the cemeterycan be readily appreciated by the casual visitor to the place, other aspects of thesite’s significance need to be conveyed through carefully planned and well designedinterpretation. This may include but not be limited to signage, literature (e. g.brochures, booklets) and face-to-face interpretation.

Interpretive research suggests that signage alone may not be particularly effectivesince few visitors read all the text. Section 9.3 provides suggestions for a range ofinterpretive programs, media and devices with potential for explaining the culturalheritage values of Moorefields Cemetery to visitors.


7 Development of Conservation PoliciesThe Statement of Significance in Section 5.4 sets out the reasons why MoorefieldsCemetery is important. The constraints and opportunities identified in Section 6interact with the significance of the site in a number of ways. There are statutoryrequirements that must be met and there are non-statutory requirements that imposemoral obligations on the owners/managers of the site. There is also the need for aviable continuing use for the site that can enable its significance to be retained whilemeeting community needs and expectations. Striking a happy balance betweenthese often-conflicting requirements requires the development of a range ofconservation policies that will define the limits of acceptable change.


8 Conservation Policies, Procedures and GuidelinesThis section contains all of the policies, procedures and guidelines recommended forconservation of Moorefields Cemetery, derived from Sections 5, 6 and 7. These arerecommended for review by Canterbury City Council in conjunction with the NSWHeritage Office and other stakeholders and, after any adjustments, for adoption as aguide to the future conservation and management of the cemeteries.

8.1 Conservation DefinitionsThe fabric constitutes the physical evidence which may reflect the date(s) ofconstruction, the skills of the makers, and the levels of use and maintenance overthe years. Many items of fabric may also be considered ‘relics’ as defined in theNSW Heritage Act, 1977,as amended i.e. material evidence relating to the non-Aboriginal settlement of NSW that is more than 50 years old.

The following definitions (Italicised) taken from the Australia ICOMOS Charter for theConservation of Places of Cultural Significance (the Burra Charter) have been usedto describe the appropriate conservation processes that should be applied to themanagement of heritage assets. The application of these to the management ofMoorefields Cemetery is discussed in the following:

Conservation means all the processes of looking after a place so as to retain itscultural significance. It includes maintenance and may according to circumstancesinclude preservation, restoration, reconstruction and adaptation and will commonlybe a combination of more than one of these.

Preservation means maintaining the fabric of a place in its existing state andretarding deterioration.

‘Maintenance means the continuous protective care of the fabric, contents andsetting of a place, and is to be distinguished from repair.

Repair involves restoration or reconstruction and it should be treated accordingly’

In terms of cemetery conservation, maintenance is the preferred process andcommonly will include the regular mowing of turfed areas, clearing of weeds, clearingof gutters and drains, keeping paths clear, removal of silt, rehabilitation of erodedareas, protective coating of exposed metal work and timber, cleaning of biologicalgrowth from monuments, removal of trip hazards.

Many of the monuments in the cemeteries have not had the benefit of regularmaintenance for a considerable period of time. They rely on the availability ofresources such as grant funds, unemployment relief labour schemes and volunteerprograms. As a result they may need preservation and / or repair to maintain theirsignificance.

Deterioration caused by human activities such as overuse, vandalism andunauthorised works can often be prevented or retarded. Preventive measures mayinclude placement of visitor control barriers, erection of signs (e.g. visitor codes).


While these measures are not preservation in themselves, they contribute topreservation of fabric.

Deterioration of significant cemetery fabric through natural processes such asweathering generally cannot be prevented but may be retarded by on goingmaintenance programs. Where regular maintenance has not been applied tomonuments or where there have been major changes to their original fabric, then theprocesses of restoration and/ or reconstruction and adaptation may be necessary.

Restoration means returning the existing fabric of a place to a known earlier stateby removing accretions or by reassembling existing components without theintroduction of new material.

In terms of cemetery conservation, restoration may include such practices as therebuilding of a collapsed section of kerbing to its original configuration using theoriginal materials, and resetting of dislodged stelae. This method is preferable foritems of state or national significance.

Reconstruction means returning a place as nearly as possible to a known earlierstate and is distinguished by the introduction of materials (new or old) into the fabric.This is not to be confused with either re-creation or conjectural reconstruction whichare beyond the scope of the [Burra] Charter.

In cases where there is adequate documentary or physical evidence of a significantfabric element that has been damaged or lost, reconstruction to a known earlier statemay be possible. For example, a damaged structure may be reconstructed from theevidence of surviving fragments and photographic records. The inclusion of newstone or brickwork to replace missing or irreparably damaged pieces to match theoriginal is also an example of acceptable reconstruction. It may be possible toreconstruct a monument from historical evidence and interpret it as an example ofhow items were made during a particular period.

In most circumstances where the original fabric is irreparably damaged and wouldrequire extensive and expensive reconstruction then the cost-benefit needs to beassessed against the heritage significance. Extensive reconstruction wouldgenerally be appropriate only for elements of major (e.g. national or state)significance. Restoration or reconstruction are preferable where funds are availablefor items of state or national significance.

Adaptation means modifying a place to suit proposed compatible uses (whichgenerally involve no change to the culturally significant fabric, changes which aresubstantially reversible, or changes which require a minimal impact.)

Adaptation is a conservation process that can be commonly applied to cemeteryconservation. It may include one or more of the following:• conversion from an operating burial ground to an historic cemetery interpreted to

demonstrate its heritage values;• upgrading / renewing an area such as resurfacing and installing other new fabric

such as paths, steps, railings, installing a new drainage system.


Adaptation may be appropriate in situations where the fabric is unsafe, in poorcondition or of little significance. Adaptation does not necessarily require replicationof the earlier detail and should be clearly distinguished as new work while beingsympathetic to the old.

It must be stressed that “conversion” of a cemetery to a “rest park” or “pioneer park”by a process of moving monuments and fixing them to walls or using them as pavingis totally unacceptable. Many cemeteries were converted in this way following theintroduction of the Conversion of Cemeteries Act in 1974, usually on the groundsthat conversion would simplify maintenance. In most cases such conversionresulted in partial or total loss of heritage significance and deterioration ofmonuments.

8.2 General Conservation Policies

8.2.1 Conservation ManagementMoorefields Cemetery is a significant component of the environmental heritage of thelocal government area, with heritage values in its own right and as a part of thebroader cultural landscape. It requires appropriate management to conserve thatsignificance.

PolicyMoorefields Cemetery should be managed to retain, conserve and enhance itssignificance in accordance with the Statement of Cultural Significance and theConservation Policies in this Plan. (Article 2.2, Burra Charter)

8.2.2 Statement of Cultural SignificanceConservation management should be guided by a number of factors, the mostimportant of which is significance, as encapsulated in the Statement of Culturalsignificance.

PolicyThe Statement of Cultural Significance set out in Section 5.4 and ConservationPolicies set out in this Section should be accepted as the basis for futuremanagement of Moorefields Cemetery.

8.2.3 Responsibility for Conservation in decision-makingManagement authorities must accept responsibility for conservation of the heritageitems in their care, control and management. As the manager of MoorefieldsCemetery, an item of State heritage significance, Canterbury City Council must notonly comply with its statutory responsibilities with respect to the management of theplace but should also set a positive example to the community.

PoliciesThe custodians of Moorefields Cemetery i.e. Canterbury City Council and itscontractors must ensure its care, management and conservation in accordance withthe values expressed in the Statement of Cultural Significance.

Responsibility for decision-making in relation to Moorefields Cemetery will rest withCanterbury City Council who should comply with requirements under the NSW


Heritage Act 1977, as amended, under the heritage provisions of CanterburyPlanning Scheme Ordinance 1970 and other relevant statutory controls.

8.2.4 Statutory ProtectionIt is important that significant heritage items have statutory protection commensuratewith their level of significance.

PolicyConsultation should be made with the NSW Heritage Office with a view to listing ofMoorefields Cemetery on the State Heritage Register.

8.2.5 Professional Standards, Compliance with Legislation, PublicConsultation and Current Best Practice in Conservation

PoliciesAll conservation works and other works on Moorefields Cemetery will be undertakenby suitably qualified persons, in accordance with accepted professional conservationcharters, guidelines and methods, and will involve appropriate consultation withrelevant individuals and organisations.

All conservation works and other works will be undertaken in accordance with theprinciples and guidelines set out in the Burra Charter of Australia ICOMOS, usingstaff and/or contractors who are suitably qualified and trained in conservation work.

Conservation works, including research, materials conservation and reconstructionshould be undertaken in accordance with professional standards and current bestpractice.

All works and activities should comply with applicable legislation and environmentalplanning instruments such as Heritage Act 1977, Heritage Amendment Act 1998 andEnvironmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

8.2.6 Investigation and ResearchPoliciesAll works and activities at Moorefields Cemetery should be thoroughly investigatedand researched prior to commencement.

All works or other activities conducted should be accurately documented andrecorded.

Where conservation works are undertaken, photographic documentation and otherappropriate recording techniques such as measured drawings should be made.

All works or other activities conducted should be accurately documented andrecorded.

All documentary materials should be stored in archivally secure conditions at theCouncil offices, with copies at Canterbury and District Historical Society.


8.2.7 Conservation of FabricPoliciesAppropriate conservation methods and processes that relate to the assessed level ofsignificance and intactness should be used to guide conservation of the cemetery.

Identified fabric, features and associated artefacts of high significance should beconserved.

Identified fabric, features and associated artefacts of moderate or low significanceshould be either conserved, through retention and interpretation, or recorded, prior toadaptation or removal.

Conservation methods and treatments should, where possible, be reversible andshould not diminish the significance of fabric.

8.2.8 Permissible New WorksPoliciesNew works and activities should only be permissible if they do not detract from theheritage significance, aesthetic values or traditional materials and constructiontechniques.

Rationale for works and other activities should be well reasoned and should complywith statutory requirements, professional charters, heritage standards andguidelines.

8.2.9 Research ProgramsIt is always possible that new material relating to the history of the site will beuncovered by chance or as a result of a research program.

PolicyResearch of Moorefields Cemetery, its landscape and the lives of those buried thereshould be encouraged to improve understanding of the site’s history and culturalsignificance and coordinated to ensure use of available resources to maximumeffect.

ActionsA research plan for the cemetery should be developed by Canterbury City Councilwith assistance from Canterbury and District Historical Society, the National Trust ofAustralia (New South Wales) and a friends group if possible to guide archival andhistorical research. This plan should clearly identify priority research areas,methodology and approximate time frame.

An oral history program should be initiated to record the living memories of peopleassociated with the construction, maintenance and use of the cemetery. Theprogram should be conducted in a culturally appropriate manner and intellectualproperty rights should be respected and copyright negotiated accordingly.

Opportunities for cooperative research with local family history groups, historicalsocieties, schools and tertiary educational institutions and the local touristinformation office should be investigated.


8.2.10 Interpretation and Promotion“Interpretation” is the explanation of the site to visitors and non-visitors alike, instillingin them an appreciation for the meaning of the place - often there is a wider meaningbehind what can be seen in the surviving physical evidence. This explanation maybe achieved through the use of a variety of media and devices. Interpretation of thehistory and significance of the cemetery is integral to its conservation and tocommunity understanding and appreciation of the cultural values of the place. It isimportant that the community, now and in the future, understands the significance ofMoorefields Cemetery and its role in the context of the development of Canterburylocal government area and New South Wales. (Article 24.1, Burra Charter).

There is little interpretation at Moorefields Cemetery, except for a sign on the gateand the inscriptions on the monuments.

PoliciesAn Interpretive Plan should be prepared for Moorefields Cemetery.

Interpretation should be provided in a manner that is consistent with the policies inthis Plan.

Interpretive media such as on-site signage should communicate the history andcultural values of the cemetery and those buried there within the context of theCanterbury City environment.

On-site interpretation policy should provide for a program which involves the use ofconsistent, well-designed, vandal-resistant and visually unobtrusive media. Thesedevices should not dominate, obscure or reduce the cultural significance of theinterpreted fabric or place.

On-site interpretation should be supplemented where possible by other media, whichmay include pamphlets, books, videos and CD-ROMs which can be available for thepublic either by purchase or reference in public libraries.

Accurate and reliable information about the cemetery should be made available tovisitors.

In future, information on the heritage significance of Moorefields Cemetery should beexpanded in interpretive programs and in guides and other interpretive mediapublished by the Council.

Given the demographics of the local government area, serious consideration shouldbe given to the provision of signage and other information for visitors from non-English speaking backgrounds.

ActionsIdentify a range of appropriate interpretive techniques such as well-designedsignage, guided and self-guided walking tours, discovery programs, publications andWebsite entries.


8.2.11 Conservation of Archival MaterialArchival material relating to Moorefields Cemetery is an important part of itssignificance. Protection of these archives must be addressed in determiningConservation Policies and future planning strategies.

PolicyOriginal documents and records of maintenance and restoration should beconserved and safely stored as a collection at the Council offices, with copies of allknown relevant records kept at Council’s Library.

8.2.12 Record KeepingAccurate record keeping is an important part of conservation.

PolicyRecords of conservation works should comprehensively document the work’s oractivity’s time frame, materials, contractors involved, other relevant information andbe available for interested members of the public to view.

These records should be cross-referenced and filed in such a way that details ofCouncil works are readily accessible.

8.2.13 Public Access and UsePoliciesPublic access and interpretation should be part of any future use of the cemetery.

Public access to and use of the cemetery should be promoted, but must not impactnegatively on or detract from the cultural significance or fabric of the cemetery.

8.2.14 TrainingAppropriate training is essential for the management and interpretation of heritageplaces.

PolicyCouncil staff and volunteers should be trained in the appreciation of the culturalvalues of the cemetery and in the techniques recommended for implementation ofthe management recommendations of this Plan.

8.2.15 Community participation in cemetery conservationDuring the last two decades there has been considerable local community supportfor cemetery maintenance. With many historic cemeteries falling into disrepair overthe years there have been numerous restoration programs, initiated by enthusiasticindividuals, land care and family history groups, and those responsible foremployment relief schemes.

Every effort should be made by management authorities to involve local communitiesin fundraising, maintenance and conservation. This will help to promote communitygoodwill and harness a considerable labour supply that can supplement the often-meagre resources available for cemetery maintenance and development.


It is recognised that trade union opposition to the use of voluntary labour continuesand remains a potential impediment to greater community involvement in cemeterymaintenance and restoration. However, while governments at all levels must providemanagement authorities with realistic and adequate resources, it is argued that therewill probably never be sufficient ‘in house’ resources to manage MoorefieldsCemetery to a level that its significance warrants.

However the use of volunteers, community groups and labour schemes for cemeteryconservation works must be carefully planned and regulated by the managementauthorities. There are numerous logistical and legal implications to be overcome. Inmany instances the ‘red tape’ involved can prove counter-productive. Provision mustbe made for training of volunteers, adequate supervision, enforcement of safetystandards and sufficient insurance cover for workers.

One of the major problems associated with unemployment relief schemes such asCommonwealth Employment Program, New Work Opportunities and the ‘Work forthe Dole’ scheme, is the short-term nature of these programs, which are oftenresponses to election promises. Lack of follow-up often means that useful works arenegated by the lack of ongoing maintenance.

PoliciesCanterbury City Council shall explore all avenues for adequate resourcing ofcemetery management.

Canterbury City Council shall develop strategies for the use of volunteer labour in theconservation of Moorefields Cemetery that do not conflict with workplace relations.

Canterbury City Council shall take an opportunistic approach to the use of externallyfunded labour schemes.

Canterbury City Council shall develop and expand contacts with relevant communitygroups with a view to using community resources to maximum advantage in theconservation of Moorefields Cemetery.

8.3.16 Community awareness of cemetery management and conservationprograms

Social significance relates partly to contemporary community esteem andMoorefields Cemetery will require a high degree of community consultation byCanterbury City Council when major changes are proposed. PoliciesCommunity awareness of management and conservation programs should bepromoted by an appropriate advisory committee, such as the Canterbury CityCouncil Heritage Committee, with representatives of the stake holders (eg anyfriends group, Canterbury and District Historical Society, tourist industry groups, localresident groups, Aboriginal groups etc.)

Regular formal and informal meetings with key stakeholders


Regular media articles, Council newsletters and other periodicals

8.2.17 Adoption, Availability and Review of PlanPlans for the conservation and management of public heritage assets should beformally adopted, available for community inspection and comment, and reviewed toensure that they are up-to-date and relevant.

PoliciesThe Plan should be made available at Canterbury City Council, for viewing andcomment by the general public. Any proposed developments or other works thatmay impact on the significance, use or fabric of the cemeteries should also bepublicly exhibited.

This Plan needs to be formally adopted by Canterbury City Council and endorsed bythe Heritage Council of New South Wales as the basis for management ofMoorefields Cemetery.

The Plan should be reviewed after a period of not more than five years. The reviewprocess should record the progress in implementation of the Plan and take intoaccount any changes due to implementation, changes in Council policy direction,external political changes, resourcing levels and natural disasters such as stormevents. Review and re-adoption should involve further consultation with relevantstakeholders including user groups and the local community.

8.3 Site Specific Conservation PoliciesThis Section sets out specific conservation policies for the maintenance, restorationand reconstruction of Moorefields Cemetery as items of State heritage significance.

Given that trees have been planted in Moorefields Cemetery to enhance itslandscape amenity, it is essential that these trees be managed to ensure that they donot pose a threat to the historic monuments or to the public who use the place.

PolicyArboricultural treatment of trees and shrubs on the site should be carried out only byqualified personnel with experience in heritage landscapes. The work must conformto relevant Australian Standards and current best practice in arboriculture asrecommended by the relevant industry representative groups such as the LandscapeContractors Association of New South Wales, the National Arborists Association ofAustralia and the Australian Institute of Horticulture.

8.3.1 Erection of New MonumentsIntroduction of new monuments into historic areas of cemeteries can pose majorvisual and other negative impacts on the significance of those areas. Any newmonuments permitted in Moorefields Cemetery should be designed in keeping withexisting monuments. Also, repair and restoration works will need to be carried out.Care should be taken to ensure that gravesites are left in good condition afterconservation works. Waste material such as excess cement and other rubbishshould be removed from the cemeteries by the monumental mason or contractor.(Articles 22.1, 22.2, Burra Charter)


8.3.2 Placement of AshesThe growing trend in the Australian community towards cremation has led to aproliferation of niche walls or columbaria in cemeteries to accommodate ashes.These structures are often constructed of light-coloured brickwork and located toproduce maximum visual impact in old cemeteries. The opportunity for inurnment orplacement of ashes provides the present community with the chance to place theremains of recently departed relatives in family burial plots or in columbaria, therebymaintaining community involvement in the cemetery. This is a positive development,particularly in those cemeteries which have been closed to burials, but it is essentialthat any new structures for the placement of ashes be designed and located so thatthey do not detract from the heritage significance of the place.

8.3.3 Memorial PlaquesPlacement of ashes is permitted at Moorefields Cemetery. Where ashes are placedin an existing grave and there is no room for additional inscriptions on themonument, a memorial plaque can be fixed to a small stone or cement sloper fixedto the top of the grave’s slab if it is a desk and slab type monument. Some peopleask to fix plaques directly to existing headstones to identify local pioneers but thispractice is not recommended since it damages the stone and has a negative visualimpact. Where inscriptions have faded or have been obliterated by decay orvandalism, information can be provided on a memorial plaque listing those buried inthe plots concerned, and fixed to a sloper discretely sited near the originalmonument. (Article 24.1, Burra Charter).

8.3.4 Traffic, Access and ParkingPedestrian access to Moorefields Cemetery is via Maramba Place, a quiet cul-de-sac where on-street parking is not difficult.

PolicySafe and adequate parking for visitors to the cemetery should be provided within areasonable walking distance of the site.

Moorefields Cemetery should be accessible to the public now and in the future.

Recreational use of the cemeteries should be complementary to their culturalheritage values.

8.3.5 Choice of MaterialsIt is important that new materials introduced into the landscapes of MoorefieldsCemetery should be consistent with those traditionally used.

PoliciesMaterials used in the maintenance or reconstruction of the landscape of MoorefieldsCemetery should preferably be traditional materials already used in the constructionof the landscape (e.g. stone, iron, rendered brick).

New materials such as steel, recycled plastic may be introduced to the landscapeonly where they are essential for public safety reasons, have minimal impact on thesignificance of the site or are reversible.


8.3.6 Management of ChangeA Conservation Management Plan provides policies and the means of implementingthose policies to ensure the conservation of a significant place. Any change must bemanaged wisely to avoid the “prettification” of sites, so much a feature of manyhistoric places adapted for new uses or where the traditional use ceases. (Articles27.1, 27.2, Burra Charter)

The reinstatement of former landscape elements or the introduction of appropriatenew elements must be guided by the evidence provided by documentary and graphicsources. If a new or amended use requires low maintenance landscape treatmentsthen there are choices available which are historically accurate as well as being easyto maintain.

It is important that significant elements from earlier periods are retained and, wherethere is sufficient documentary evidence, that lost elements from those periods bereinstated. It is inevitable that early plantings will become senescent and eventuallydie.

PoliciesGiven the importance of the views to the site, new plantings should be located insuch a way that they enhance views, not detract from them.

Choice of species for new plantings should be based on the relative significance ofthe area, appropriateness for the period, suitability for the location, ease ofmaintenance and use (e.g. screening, visitor control, floral display).

New plantings should be located in such a way that they enhance views, not detractfrom them.

Significant former elements should be restored or reconstructed to maintain theheritage value and character of the landscapes.

Future management should provide for the replacement of significant elements tomaintain the character of the place.

Replacement plantings of significant species should be propagated from existingsignificant trees and shrubs.

8.3.7 Adjoining LandsLands adjoining Moorefields Cemetery are important to the setting of the cemeteryand should be managed to conserve its significance.

PoliciesAdjoining lands should be managed to conserve the heritage significance of theplace generally and the cemetery in particular.

Any adjoining development should be sympathetic to the conservation of thecemetery.


8.3.8 Maintenance ProceduresThe various types of significant fabric will require different frequencies of inspectionand levels of maintenance, reflecting their relative significance. The GeneralMaintenance Schedule in Section 9.2 and Section 10 on Conservation ofMonuments set out the recommended maintenance regimes.

PoliciesAppropriate maintenance procedures should be developed, documented andimplemented to ensure the ongoing retention of the cultural significance of thecultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery.

Procedures for maintenance and repairs should be adopted to reduce costs andconform to current best practice in conservation. Statutory requirements, forexample the Occupational Health & Safety Act, must also be considered in theformulation of these procedures.

A procedures manual should be developed for the range of maintenance and repairtasks for the various elements of the site, for example, landscape, buildings, otherstructures, horticultural management. Occupational health and safety must also beconsidered in this manual.

Records such as logbooks should be kept for all repairs and maintenance tolandscape and built elements. A pro-active program of planned maintenance shouldbe developed.

Regular monitoring of the condition of the landscape of Moorefields Cemetery shouldbe built into the maintenance program. This will not only alert the owners/managersto potential hazards and other problems but will assist in reducing costs by allowinga pro-active approach to management. Visitor monitoring also is an essential tool toaid management decisions.

A cyclical maintenance program should be established for the cemetery.

8.3.9 Archival Material and Movable HeritageBurial records for Moorefields Cemetery are kept at Council’s local studies centre..Archival material relating to Moorefields Cemetery is an important part of itssignificance. Protection of these archives must be addressed in determining otherconservation policies and future planning strategies.

Movable heritage may include items of grave furniture and/or parts of monumentsremoved from their original locations.

PoliciesOriginal documents should be conserved and safely stored, with copies of all knownrelevant records kept as a collection at Local Studies, Canterbury City CouncilLibrary.

Movable heritage items such as parts of monuments should be accurately recordedand then safely stored for later restoration.


8.3.10 Disabled AccessProvision of unrestricted access to historic sites is often difficult to achieve withoutunacceptable impacts on heritage significance.

PolicyWhere possible, relevant standards for disabled access should be met.

8.3.11 Occupational Health and SafetyThere are certain statutory obligations with regard to the safety of staff andcontractors working on site and members of the public visiting a property. However,historic landscapes may, by their very nature, contain hazards or pose risks whichmay be brought to visitors’ attention but which may not be removed withoutunacceptable impacts on heritage significance.

PoliciesManagement should be committed to a policy of maximising public safety, managingrisk and minimising public liability within the constraints imposed by conservation ofheritage significance.

Regular inspections and monitoring should be carried out to identify potential andfuture risks and hazards. Reports should be made of hazards and incidents, andlogbooks kept of actions taken to remedy these situations. Public safety hazardsshould be identified and/or appropriate warning signs and barricades should beerected as soon as possible.

Adequate levels of insurance should be maintained to cover public liability.

A protocol for dealing with complaints, claims and incidents should be establishedand reviewed on a regular basis.

8.3.12 Archaeological ConstraintsAn archaeological assessment of Moorefields Cemetery has not been made.Archaeological ‘relics’ are defined in the Heritage Act, as any deposit, object ormaterial evidence which relates to the settlement of NSW and which is 50 or moreyears old, but does not include Aboriginal relics. Under Section 141 of the HeritageAct an excavation permit is required to disturb or excavate any land for the purposeof discovering, exposing or moving a relic. While many repairs to monuments canbe carried out without the need for excavation, there may be occasions when therewill be a need for an excavation permit under the Heritage Act regarding statutoryrequirements for works likely to affect archaeological material and mechanisms forreducing impacts.

The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 defines a relic as “any deposit, object ormaterial evidence (not being a handicraft made for sale) relating to indigenous andnon-European habitation of the area that comprises New South Wales, beinghabitation both prior to and concurrent with the occupation of that area by persons ofEuropean extraction, and includes Aboriginal remains”. No Aboriginal relics areknown to exist at Moorefields Cemetery, although there are reputed to be unmarkedgraves of Aborigines and convicts in sections I to L.


While most repairs to monuments can be carried out without the need for excavation,there may be occasions when there will be a need for an excavation permit underthe Heritage Act regarding statutory requirements for works likely to affectarchaeological material and mechanisms for reducing impacts.

It is considered that the minor soil movements required to re-bed some cemeterymonuments to their original positions would not be considered an “excavation” asdefined in the Act. However, approval under Section 60 of the Heritage Act isrequired for items on the State Heritage Register, unless the works are subject to aSchedule of Exemptions. It is envisaged that implementation of therecommendations in this Plan will be so exempted.

PoliciesAny works likely to affect non-Aboriginal archaeological material should only becarried out in accordance with the requirements of the Heritage Act.

New works arising from the implementation of this Plan and routine futuremaintenance works must respect the archaeological evidence embodied in thehistoric fabric such as headstones, plinths, grave surrounds, etc.

If any evidence of subsurface relics is uncovered during cemetery works they shouldbe treated according to the legislative requirements and an archaeological planshould be prepared.

8.3.13 Avoidance of Chemical PollutantsChemicals used in the cleaning of monuments, killing of biological growths, gluing ofbroken headstones and repair of damaged masonry may be toxic to humans and/orwildlife.

PolicyThe environmental effects of the various chemicals used in the conservation ofmonuments should be considered before their use.


9 Management Recommendations

9.1 Maintenance & Conservation of Landscape ElementsThe following describes the appropriate maintenance and conservation measuresapplicable to the landscape elements found in Moorefields Cemetery.

9.1.1 Trees and Major ShrubsMaintenance cycleCheck trees and major shrubs every 6 months for signs of disease, rot, dead woodand treat as necessary, in accordance with conservation policies.Repair storm damage as necessary.Prune to lift crowns as necessary every 12 months and mulch with leaf mulch.Carry out tree husbandry operations such as staking, protection and replacementduring June.

9.1.2 Minor ShrubsMaintenance cycleCheck minor shrubs every 6 months for signs of disease, rot, and dead wood andtreat as necessary, in accordance with conservation policies.Repair storm damage as necessary.Prune as necessary, in accordance with species requirements, to improve shape,flowering or fruiting. Check for fungal attack during humid weather months andspray as necessary.

9.1.3 Herbaceous plantingsMaintenance schedulePrune as necessary, in accordance with species requirements, to improve shape,flowering or fruiting.Check for fungal attack during humid weather months and spray as necessary.Prune roses during July, or June if onset of dormancy is earlier due to cold weather.

9.1.4 Lawn areasPaths between graves at Moorefields Cemetery are currently compressed earth, withno lawn areas. Turf is an appropriate ground cover for these paths but requiresconsiderable maintenance. If Council establishes lawn areas in the Cemetery thefollowing maintenance schedule should be followed.

Maintenance scheduleAerate worn areas in September if necessary and reseed or returf if necessary.Condition soil and top dress and fertilise turf in September eg with combinedtopdressing and organic fertiliser.Spray lawn weeds with selective herbicide if necessary at start of active growthseason.Increase frequency of mowing if necessary, depending on growth.Gradually increase frequency of watering and mowing to full summer program duringOctober.Taper off mowing and watering during March and fertilise if necessary.Spray winter lawn weeds during late October if necessary.


9.1.5 Fences, gates and park furnitureMaintenance scheduleCheck condition and operation of fences, gates, park furniture and timber structures3 monthly and repair damage as necessary. Schedule major repairs andmaintenance for July.

9.1.6 PavingThere are currently no paved areas in the Cemetery, the paths are compressedearth. However, paved areas of the footpath in Maramba Close should bemaintained on a regular basis, in accordance with the following schedule.

Maintenance scheduleInspect paving surfaces for wear every 12 months.Inspect for trip hazards every 3 months.Respond immediately to any safety problems identified by staff, volunteers orvisitors.

9.1.7 Miscellaneous itemsMaintenance scheduleService and maintain gardening equipment during winter months.Arrange maintenance check and service as necessary of reticulation equipmentduring late autumn/winter.Check operation of reticulation equipment prior to warmer months.

9.1.8 SignsMaintenance scheduleInspect signs every 6 months and repaint/repair as necessary. Graffiti should beremoved as soon as practicable after it has been detected.

9.1.9 Site DrainageDrainage is important in any cemetery. Poor soil drainage can exacerbate dampproblems on stone monuments, cause undermining of graves and make accessdifficult. Regular maintenance of drains and gutters is essential.

Maintenance scheduleInspect and clear drainage lines and pits after each period of heavy rain or at leastmonthly.

9.1.10 MonumentsDetailed guidelines for the conservation and maintenance of the cemeterymonuments are provided in Section 10.


9.2 General Maintenance ScheduleThe following sets out routine maintenance actions for the various landscapeelements:

LandscapeElement

Maintenance actions

Trees and MajorShrubs

Check every 6 months for signs of disease, rot, dead wood and treat asnecessary.Prune to lift crowns as necessary every 12 months and mulch with leaf mulch.Carry out tree husbandry operations such as staking, protection and replacementduring June.

Minor Shrubs Check minor shrubs every 6 months for signs of disease, rot, and dead wood andtreat as necessary.Prune as necessary, in accordance with species requirements, to improve shape,flowering or fruiting.Check for fungal attack during humid weather months and spray as necessary.

Herbaceousplantings

Prune as necessary, in accordance with species requirements, to improve shape,flowering or fruiting.Check for fungal attack during humid weather months and spray as necessary.Prune roses during July, or June if onset of dormancy is earlier due to coldweather.

Lawn areas(if introduced)

Aerate worn areas in September if necessary and reseed or returf if necessary.Condition soil and top dress and fertilise turf in September eg with combinedtopdressing and organic fertiliser.Spray lawn weeds with selective herbicide if necessary at start of active growthseason.Increase frequency of mowing if necessary, depending on growth.Gradually increase frequency of watering and mowing to full summer programduring October.Taper off mowing and watering during March and fertilise if necessary.Spray winter lawn weeds during late October if necessary.

Fences and gates Check condition and operation of fences and gates 3 monthly and repair damageas necessary. Schedule major repairs and maintenance for July.

Paving Inspect paving surfaces for wear every 12 months.Inspect for trip hazards every 3 months.Respond immediately to any safety problems.

Miscellaneousitems

Service and maintain gardening equipment during winter months.Arrange maintenance check and service as necessary of reticulation equipmentduring late autumn/winter.Check operation of reticulation equipment prior to warmer months.

Signs Inspect signs every 6 months and repaint/repair as necessary. Graffiti should beremoved as soon as practicable after it has been applied.

Drainage Inspect and clear drainage lines and pits after each period of heavy rain or at leastmonthly.

Monuments Inspect weekly for vandalism damage and deterioration.Fence off any monuments that pose a public safety risk.Conserve in accordance with the guidelines in Section 10.


9.3 InterpretationThere is a need for a clear identity for Moorefields Cemetery and its landscape, inthe context of the cultural landscape history of Canterbury LGA and the area.

9.3.1 Basic ObjectivesThe main points that need to be covered in interpretive material about MoorefieldsCemetery are:The natural environmental context.Pre-contact Aboriginal occupation.European settlement, including convict associations.Years of construction/development.People associated with the place.History of the property’s management.Heritage fabric – the monuments and plantings.

9.3.2 Existing Interpretive MaterialCanterbury and District Historical Society’s 1992 publication The Heritage ofCanterbury Municipality includes a photograph of Moorefields Cemetery and someinformation about those early settlers buried there. Detailed information on thoseburied in the cemetery can be found in Moorefields Cemetery Records (1983),compiled by Joyce Ormsby for Canterbury & District Historical Society. A plaque onthe gatepost at the entry from Maramba Close provides information about thelandscaping works carried out in the late 1980s.

9.3.3 Site Specific Recommendations• Include more information about Moorefields Cemetery in future Council

publications about the heritage of the LGA.

• Publish digital images of Moorefields Cemetery headstones and transcriptions ofinscriptions on Council’s website (this is scheduled for 2003, as part of aninnovative program by Council to publish material about Canterbury’s historiccemeteries on the internet).

• Develop a self-guided walking tour map brochure for Moorefields Cemetery,including general information about the cemetery and particular interpretivematerial about significant monuments and a cross-section of persons buriedthere. Graves featured in the brochure can be marked discretely with numberedpegs.

• Develop an interpretive signage scheme for the cemetery consistent with thisConservation Management Plan and an Interpretive Plan for the site. Careshould be taken to avoid a proliferation of signs.

• Install an interpretive sign at Moorefields Cemetery, explaining its significance asan historic burial ground in Canterbury LGA. A photo-metal sign could include anearly photograph of the site with relevant text about those buried there.


• Erect a sign at Moorefields Cemetery encouraging visitors to behave responsiblyand advising them where they can obtain further information. A draft Visitor Codeis at Appendix H.

9.3.4 Other Interpretive Options• Many modern motor vehicles are equipped with CD players and many visitors will

have portable CD players. Council, in conjunction with the Canterbury andDistrict Historical Society, the local tourism authority and other stake holders mayconsider the production of a CD containing historical and tourism informationabout Canterbury LGA in general and its cemeteries in particular. An interactiveCD-ROM could have additional use as a classroom educational tool. The use ofaudio guides can obviate the need for a plethora of signs, thereby reducing visualclutter.

• A promotional video or DVD on Canterbury could include footage of the cemeteryas part of the coverage of the area’s cultural heritage sites.


10 Conservation of MonumentsThe guidelines set out below provide specific advice on the conservation of therange of fabric types to be found in Moorefields Cemetery.

10.1 Basic PrinciplesConservation works on the monuments in the cemetery should be in accordancewith the Burra Charter and its Guidelines (as revised November 1999). The mainobjective should be repair and maintenance with retention of heritage significanceand the patina of age that imparts character to historic cemeteries. A basic principleof conservation work should be “do as much as is necessary, but as little aspossible”.

10.1.1 Documenting and storing fragmentsAny loose fragments of monuments such as small pieces of broken headstones,cross surmounts, carvings should be labelled with the name of those buried, thegrave number and the date. They should then be stored safely off site until repairscan be carried out.

10.1.2 Excavation to expose plinths or kerbsTo remove some slabs and to carry out repairs on some monuments, some minorexcavation may be necessary.

10.1.3 Good housekeepingAs with any conservation work, care should be taken to ensure that the heritageplace is respected. Drop sheets should be used to protect monuments andsurrounding areas during work such as cleaning of monuments and repointing ofgrave surrounds. Any waste material such as surplus mortar, cement bags,containers, etc. should be removed from site at the completion of work. Care shouldbe taken to avoid mechanical abrasion of headstones and kerbs. During restorationwork and routine maintenance it will be necessary to use hand tools close tomonuments to protect them from damage.

10.1.4 Tree Damage, Erosion and Root ControlAt Moorefields Cemetery, some monuments have been damaged or are likely to bedamaged by tree root growth. A solution to this problem may require removal ofsome trees or some judicious root pruning (with arboricultural advice). Trees wereobscuring some graves and making access difficult for visitors, but crown liftingduring 2002 has reduced the problem considerably.

10.2 CleaningMuch of the work recommended in the cemetery is just cleaning to remove dirt andbiological growth that is posing a negative visual impact on some monuments andrenders some inscriptions difficult to read. Careful supervision of cleaning isnecessary to ensure that monuments are not over-cleaned – the cemetery shouldretain its historic ‘look’, its patina of age.


10.2.1 Removal of dirtRemoval of dirt may be required as a prelude to repair work or to reduce the risk ofbiological growth. Dry brushing with a soft bristle brush (natural or plastic bristles)should be used to remove loose dirt, leaves, grass clippings and seeds. If furthercleaning is necessary, the monument should be wetted with clean water so that thedetergent solution can work on the surface dirt without being drawn into the stone.

Washing with a soft bristle brush and a weak detergent solution (e.g. Shell TeepolHousehold Grade Detergent at a concentration of 1 ml per 10 litres of water) shouldbe followed by thorough rinsing with clean water. Avoid brushing over lead letteringbecause the bristles can catch on the letters, with a high risk of damage. Polishedgranite may be cleaned with the soft side of a well-washed cuttlefish float but suchequipment should not be used on sandstone, marble or other stones.

Many headstones in historic cemeteries have been damaged by the use of harshcleaning methods. On no account should the following be used:• Acids e.g. hydrochloric acid• Alkalis e.g. caustic soda• Steel wool• Wire brushes (brass or steel)• Harsh abrasive powders• Scourers• Sand blasting• High pressure water blasting e.g. Gerni-type machines

Do not mix detergent solution with biocides used for removal of biological growthbecause the combination will produce a greasy residue that will be difficult toremove.

10.2.2 Removal of biological growthsLichens are biological growths involving symbiotic relationships between fungi andalgae. Lichens often impart a pleasant patina of age to historic cemeteries. Theyare sensitive to atmospheric pollution so may be indicators of air quality. They alsoprovide evidence of growth rates in a particular environment since the monumentdates and stone types on which they are growing are known. Some lichens may berare species that should be protected.

On the other hand lichens secrete chemicals that attack the stone substrate of themonuments. Lichens may also contribute to damage of lead lettering on marblemonuments by growing in the film of moisture between the stone and the lead.Other biological growths such as fungi can cause unsightly discolouration,particularly on white marble monuments. Dark stains may render inscriptionsillegible and pose an unacceptable visual impact in old cemeteries.

Removal of biological growths should be carried out with caution, and only in thefollowing circumstances:• where lichen growth is damaging sandstone monuments;• where dark growths are disfiguring marble monuments or obscuring inscriptions;• where lead lettering is being damaged;


• where repointing of joints is required.

Cleaning and removal of biological growths should be monitored carefully so that theend result is visually pleasing without removing the character from the cemetery. Ifthe cleaning recommended in Section 10.2.1 above is inadequate, biological growthmay be treated with a biocide based on a quaternary ammonium compound (e.g.Ajax Chemicals Turco Thoral disinfectant, catalogue no. 15200). This should bediluted to a 1% solution in water (10 ml in 1 litre) painted or sprayed onto themonument. Over-spray should be avoided but spraying is recommended aroundlead lettering to avoid damage to the lettering that may result from brushing. Deadlichens and other biological growth may be removed carefully with a plastic scraper,followed by thorough washing with clean water, then a final biocide wash. Growthwill probably reappear in time and repeat treatments may be necessary, dependingon conditions.

10.2.3 Graffiti removalFortunately, graffiti has not been a major problem in Moorefields Cemetery. If itoccurs, it should be removed as quickly as possible by experts with experience inthis type of work in heritage environments.

10.3 Resetting MonumentsExpansion and contraction of soils and the natural settling of graves over time canresult in subsidence and/or tilting of monuments. This is readily apparent atMoorefields Cemetery, where the highly reactive clay soils have led to subsidenceand displacement of many monuments.

Resetting of monuments should only be carried out in cases where, for instance,leaning stelae pose a safety threat to cemetery visitors or workers. Visitors shouldexpect some appearance of age in an historic cemetery.

10.3.1 Emergency measuresIf a monument such as a tall stele is leaning dangerously, it should be fenced off andmay need to be propped with timber props to prevent it falling until resetting can bearranged.

10.3.2 Dealing with broken stelaeBroken stelae should be laid face up on a bed of coarse aggregate sloped to allowwater run-off. If this measure needs to be maintained permanently, the sloping bedshould be made of no-fines concrete, consisting of 1 part low-alkali cement to 8-10parts of coarse aggregate. Once the sloping bed has cured thoroughly, the brokenstele should be laid on it without adhesive. The bed should be made up withformwork to the same shape as the headstone but slightly smaller so that theconcrete does not protrude.

10.4 Repairing MonumentsRepair of monuments should be determined on the basis of significance and needs,in accordance with the principles and guidelines of the Burra Charter.


10.4.1 Broken fragmentsAs recommended in Section 10.1.1 above, fragments should be carefullydocumented and stored safely until repairs can be carried out.

10.4.2 Consolidation of decaying fabricDeteriorated fabric such as fretting sandstone may require specialist intervention bya materials conservator.

10.5 Grave SurroundsA number of grave surrounds have subsided and / or cracked as a result of gravesettling and soil movement generally. Repairs to surrounds will require the skilledwork of a monumental mason. In some cases repointing of joints will be all that isnecessary, to render the joints waterproof again. In other cases, more complexrepairs involving resetting the kerbs with replacement corner staples will be required.

10.5.1 Repointing jointsJoints will need to be thoroughly cleaned before the mortar joints can be repointed.Any biological growth on the adjacent kerbs will need to be treated with biocide andleft for four weeks before repointing can commence. Old mortar will need to beraked out to a depth of 20-25 mm and the joint cleaned with a hand air brushing,followed by flushing with clean water and a final spray of biocide well beforerepointing.

For sandstone surrounds, repointing should be done with a mortar mix of one partslaked lime putty to two parts fine washed sand, well mixed, beaten and chopped,and relatively dry. A 1:3 mix is preferable for wider joints, with the sand matched tothe original material of the kerbs in colour and grainsize.

Masking of joints can be achieved by running wide masking tape over the joint, thencutting through the tape with a knife along the line of the joint. This method is fasterand less fiddly than trying to mask either side of the joint with separate runs of tape.It is important to get the mortar deep into the joint rather than just across the face ofit. Difficult joints may require more complex methods such as using a sandwich oflime mortar between two sheets of Mylar®. The Mylar® is then withdrawn while themortar is held in place by a narrow jointing tool. This process can be repeated untilthe joint has been filled.

10.5.2 Replacing kerbsDecisions to replace badly broken or eroded kerb stones will need to be made on acost-effectiveness basis, balancing the significance of the monument against theexpense of the work and the benefit to the overall appearance of the cemetery.

10.6 SlabsWhere grave floors have cracked or subsided due to settling of the earth beneath orfailure of the concrete slabs, they may need to be replaced. Any topping such asmarble chips, quartz pebbles, coloured aggregate, scoria should be removed andsieved to remove leaves and dirt, then washed and stored for later replacement andreplenishment.


If necessary the slab can be removed by cutting around the edges with a diamondblade circular saw. Once the grave floor or pieces thereof have been removed thegrave can be refilled with earth and tamped down with a vibrating plate compactor,care being taken to protect the kerbs with thick hessian padding. Zipped expansionjointing as used in building construction should be used between the new slab andthe kerb to allow for expansion of the new floor and to prevent salts from theconcrete leaching into the original stone.

10.7 InscriptionsMonumental inscriptions were meant to be read. They are a long-lasting memorial tothe lives of those who have departed. In some cases they may be the only survivingrecord of the life of an individual, particularly for burials before civil registration ofbirths, deaths and marriages was introduced in 1856. Treatment of inscriptions willdepend on whether they have merely become obscured by biological growth orrendered illegible by damage to fabric due to such factors as wind erosion, spallingor fretting. Biological growth can be dealt with as recommended in Section 10.2above.

Other restoration of inscriptions requires specialist trades that are becomingincreasingly rare in the industry. As a general principle, re-cutting, re-blacking andre-leading of inscriptions should only be carried out if it can be done without undueloss of original fabric and without exacerbation of existing problems in the stone. Onno account should mistakes in original inscriptions be corrected – they are animportant part of the significance of the monuments – evidence of human fallibilityand, in many cases, indicators of the level of literacy in past populations. Mistakes inoriginal inscriptions such as spellings of people’s names, geographical informationand dates can be interpreted through brochures or interpretive plaques.

10.7.1 Transcribing inscriptionsBefore any restoration of inscriptions is done, it is essential that the inscriptions betranscribed in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Society of AustralianGenealogists and that the transcribed records be stored safely and made availablefor research.

10.7.2 Restoration of inscriptionsRe-cutting, re-blacking, re-gilding and re-leading of inscriptions should only becarried out by specialists with extensive experience in this type of work. Well-meaning relatives should be discouraged from practices such as highlightinginscriptions with black or gold paint. For instance the inscription on the sandstonestele on James Chard’s grave (Section A.7) has been inappropriately re-blacked.

10.8 IronworkThe remaining ironwork at the cemetery includes a number of iron fence enclosureswith cast iron lace panels and decorative finials. Surface corrosion can be dealt withby careful wire brushing, followed by application of fish oil. More severe corrosionmay require treatment with rust converter, followed by application of a protectivecoating. Paint scrapes may reveal the nature and colour of original finishes.


10.9 Prioritised Schedule of WorksThe following Schedule lists the cemetery monuments according to the priority ofconservation works – high (2002-2003), medium (2003-2004) and low (2004-2005).Of course, timing will depend on the availability of funds and quotes should besought from experienced tradespersons so that costed proposals are ready forfinancial assistance applications to be made opportunistically. Cleaning and removalof biological growth has been recommended for most monuments, subject to theproviso that they are not over-cleaned and that the character of the cemeteries ismaintained. It may be more cost-effective to clean all monuments as part of onecontract, then stage other repair works in accordance with the following schedule.

Priority Timing Monuments

Urgent 2002-2003Shore up tilting stelae near southern corner ofCemetery

High 2003-2004Archibald Beacom monument - repairRowland Cragg monument - repairJames and Herbert Peake monument - repairAndrew Beacom monument - repairJames Chard monument – clean and conserveIron railings to monuments generally –clean and treatcorrosion

Medium 2004-2005Isaac Peake monument

Low 2005-2006John Robert Peake monumentPendlebury monument

11 BibliographyThe following is a list of sources consulted by the author during the preparation ofthe Conservation Management Plan and some useful references on historiccemeteries and their conservation.

Adler, Michelle (Editor) (1994) The Smart Gardener’s Guide to Common Names ofPlants, Melbourne, Adland Horticultural

Anon, (1926), [Linen] Plan of Moorfields Methodist Cemetery. Copied from originaldated 10 August 1926, with additions marked in red August 1936.

Anon, (1959), “Information in respect to burials in the Moorfields MethodistCemetery.” October 1959

Anon, (1962), “List of graves with headstones in Moorfields Cemetery”.

Anon, (1974), “List of burials in Section A1.”


Australian Council of National Trusts (1996) National Guidelines for theConservation of Cemeteries Canberra, Australian Council of National Trusts

Australian Heritage Commission (1993). More Than Meets The Eye: identifyingand assessing Aesthetic Value. Aesthetic Value Workshop, University of Melbourne,Melbourne, Victoria, Australian Heritage Commission

Barker, A. (1992). What Happened When: A chronology of Australia 1788 - 1990.Sydney, Allen and Unwin.

Bickford, Anne, Denise Donlan and Siobhan Lavelle, (1998) Skeletal Remains:Guidelines for the Management of Human Skeletal Remains under the Heritage Act1977. Sydney, NSW Heritage Office

Canterbury City Council, Correspondence file M-31-1

Canterbury City Council, (2002), www.canterbury.nsw.gov.au

Craven, I., Ed. (1994). Australian Popular Culture. Cambridge, UK etc., CambridgeUniversity Press.

Falkiner, S. (1992). The Writers' Landscape - Settlement. Sydney, Simon andSchuster.

Hall, M. & M. Simon, Ed. (1993). Heritage Management in New Zealand andAustralia: Visitor Management, Interpretation, and Marketing. Oxford, etc., OxfordUniversity Press.

Jeans, D. N. (1972). An Historical Geography of New South Wales to 1901. Sydney,Reed Education.

Kerr, James Semple, (1999) The Conservation Plan, 5th Edition. Sydney, NationalTrust of Australia (New South Wales

Larcombe, F A (1979), Change and Challenge: A History of Canterbury, NSW. N.p., Canterbury Municipal Council.

Madden, Brian & Fay Golding, (1992), The Chards of Kingsgrove and the SlyFamily, Cronulla, Mrs Fay Golding

Marquis-Kyle, Peter and Meredith Walker, (1992) The Illustrated Burra Charter:Making good decisions about the care of important places, Sydney, AustraliaICOMOS Inc.

Moorfields Cemetery Trust, (1918), “[Treasurer’s] Book No. 1”. WesleyanCemetery, Moorfields 8 December 1891 to 6 November 1918.

Moorfields Church and Cemetery Trust, (1919), “Secretary’s Record of Allotmentof graves, dated 5 April 1919.”


Moorfields Church and Cemetery Trust, (1962), “Cemetery Record Book by P WCant, march 1962.” Based on an earlier book c. 1930 by Mr Arthur Miller. Earlyrecords destroyed in a fire which swept through the district in 1901 (includes someinformation regarding kerbing and railing)

Moorfields Church and Cemetery Trust, (n. d.), “Burial Register 18 November1930 to 17 March 1976”

Moorfields Methodist Church and Cemetery Trust, (n. d.), “Cemetery ‘RecordBook’”

Moorfields Methodist Church, (1951), A Century of Methodism: 100 Years ofMethodism at Moorfields 1851 – 1951: Souvenir and Historical Record of theChurch’s Activities.

Moorfields Methodist Church Trust, (1932), “Treasurer’s Book 1 September 1916to 23 September 1932”

Moorfields Methodist Cemetery, (1959), “Names of those interred in alphabeticalorder.” A list first started by Mr A W Miller about 1930-36 and later put into bookform by Mr P W Cant who succeeded Mr Miller as Church and Cemetery Treasurerin July 1933.

Muir, Lesley & Brian Madden (Eds), (1992) The Heritage of CanterburyMunicipality, Canterbury, Canterbury and District Historical Society

National Trust of Australia (New South Wales), (1987), Cemeteries: A PolicyPaper, Sydney, National Trust of Australia (NSW)

NSW Department of Planning/Heritage Council of New South Wales (1992)Cemeteries: Guidelines for their Care and Conservation, Sydney, Department ofPlanning/Heritage Council of New South Wales

NSW Heritage Office and Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (1996)NSW Heritage Manual. Sydney, NSW Heritage Office and Department of UrbanAffairs and Planning

NSW Heritage Office (1998) The Maintenance of Heritage Assets: A PracticalGuide. Information Sheet 9.1: Heritage Gardens and Grounds. 2nd Edition, Sydney,NSW Heritage Office

Ormsby, Joyce, (1983), Moorefields Cemetery Records, Canterbury & DistrictHistorical Society. Records as at April 1981.

Reader’s Digest (1992) The Reader’s Digest Gardeners’, Encyclopaedia of Plantsand Flowers Sydney, Reader’s Digest (Australia) Pty Ltd

Rodd, Tony (1996) The Ultimate Book of Trees and Shrubs for AustralianGardeners. Sydney, Random House,


Rowell, Raymond J. (1996). Ornamental Conifers for Australian Gardens.Sydney, UNSW Press,

Sagazio, C., (Ed.), (1992). The National Trust Research Manual: InvestigatingBuildings, Gardens and Cultural Landscapes. Sydney, Allen and Unwin.

Stanbury, P., Ed. (1975). 100 Years of Australian Scientific Explorations. Sydney,The Macleay Museum, The University of Sydney.


12 Appendices

Appendix A Heritage Listings

Appendix B Draft State Heritage Inventory Form

Appendix C Sample Visitor Survey Form

Appendix D Draft Cemetery Visitor Code

Appendix E Information in respect to burials in the MoorefieldsMethodist Cemetery, October, 1959

Appendix F Glossary

Appendix G Illustrations

Appendix H Moorefields Cemetery Monument Inventory Form


Appendix A Heritage Listings


Appendix B Draft State Heritage Inventory Form

NSW State Heritage Inventory form

HERITAGE OFFICE - November 1999

ITEM DETAILSName of Item Moorefields CemeteryOther Name/sFormer Name/s

Moorfields Methodist Cemetery

Item type BuiltItem group LandscapeItem category CemeteryStreet numberStreet name Maramba Close, Kingsgrove at the rear of 98-100 Moorefields RoadSuburb/town Kingsgrove Postcode 2208LocalGovernmentArea

Canterbury City

Propertydescription

Lot 2, DP 594305

Owner Canterbury City CouncilCurrent use CemeteryFormer Use CemeteryStatement ofsignificance

The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is considered to be of local andState heritage significance as a place with historical, social, architectural, cultural,archaeological, and aesthetic significance for the Canterbury City Local GovernmentArea and the State of New South Wales. It satisfies most if not all of the sevencriteria established under the NSW Heritage Act (as amended in 1998) for inclusionon the State Heritage Register. Moorefields Cemetery is important in the course andpattern of the cultural history of New South Wales because of its historicalassociations and significant documentary and physical evidence of the evolution ofthe place (Criterion A). The Cemetery contains the remains of former convicts and ofAboriginal people, as well as some burials that pre-date Civil Registration of births,deaths and marriages in NSW. Moorefields Cemetery is historically important at alocal level for its strong associations with significant individuals and families importantin the development of the Canterbury City Council area in general and theKingsgrove area in particular. Criterion B). In the range of monument styles and thequality of craftsmanship Moorefields Cemetery is important in demonstratingaesthetic characteristics in New South Wales (Criterion C). For such a relativelysmall burial ground, it displays an unusually diverse array of monumental types anddesigns. The landscape of Moorefields Cemetery has strong associations with pastand contemporary communities of the Kingsgrove and South Belmore area for socialand cultural reasons. The place is held in high esteem by significant groups withinthe present day community and there was strong opposition to plans to demolish theCemetery in the late 1960s. (Criterion D)It is considered that further research of the physical and documentary evidencerelated to Moorefields Cemetery has the potential to contribute to a widerunderstanding of European occupation of New South Wales, from the mid 19th

century to the present day. (Criterion E) Further research of the monuments and therecords of the burying grounds can lead to better interpretation of the history and



heritage significance of the place, contributing to wider and better understanding ofour past. By virtue of its historical associations with important persons and events inthe development of the Canterbury City local government area, MoorefieldsCemetery possesses rare aspects of the area’s cultural history. (Criterion F). Someof the burials pre-date 1856, the year of introduction of Civil Registration of Births,Deaths and Marriages in New South Wales.Moorefields Cemetery demonstrates the principal characteristics of a class of thecultural places of New South Wales (Criterion G). It is representative of smalldenominational burial grounds dating from the mid- nineteenth century.

Level ofSignificance State

DESCRIPTIONDesigner N/ABuilder/ maker N/APhysicalDescription

A small rectangular parcel of land adjoining the former Moorefields Methodist Church(now Arab Gospel Church) with its north eastern side fronting Maramba Close,Kingsgrove, a residential cul-de-sac and bounded by residential development on itssouth eastern and south western sides. Burial plots are arranged in 13 rows orSections, A, A1, B to L. Plots are 3 feet 6 inches wide except those in Section A1which are 3 feet wide. There is a modern (1989) metal picket fence on a sandstonedwarf wall along the Maramba Close boundary. Landscaping in 1989 includedperimeter tree planting of Chinese Elm, English Elm and Aleppo Pine, with someChinese Elm trees planted along the central axis also. Paths are of compressedearth and gravel, with no grassed areas. Monuments include a small number ofelaborate memorials, such as obelisks and columns, some with iron enclosures.Some fine large gothic stelae of sandstone and marble. Many 20th century desk andslab type monuments. Some ornaments including urns and vases survive. An ironstand for floral tributes or immortelles survives on one plot.

PhysicalconditionandArchaeologicalpotential

Varies from good to very poor. Some monuments have subsided, others have beendamaged by vandals, many exhibit biological staining.

May be 200-300 unmarked burials, including convicts and Aborigines.

Constructionyears

Start year c. 1851 Finish year Still used

Modificationsand dates

Original driveway for horse drawn vehicles near western end of Cemetery convertedto burial plots.Landscaping including new Maramba Close perimeter fence, entrance gate and treeplanting in 1989

HISTORYHistorical notes Established on land donated to the Wesleyan Church by John Chard in 1851, the first

known burials are those of Emma Lees (died 6 January 1855) and George Tomkins(died 13 December 1855). The last resting place for many of the local area’spioneering European settlers but also reputed to contain a number of unmarked



Aboriginal and convict burials. Associated with the Methodist Church built in 1851,replaced in 1967 by a new church that was subsequently sold to the Arab GospelChurch. The Cemetery was protected by an order placed by the Heritage Council ofNSW when it was threatened by bulldozing. Subsequently taken over and managedby Canterbury Council. All surviving inscriptions have been transcribed and burialrecords have been published by the local historical society. All monuments havebeen digitally photographed and images will be published on Council’s website

THEMESNationalhistorical themeStatehistoricalthemes

Death, Religion, Environment, Persons, land tenure

APPLICATION OF CRITERIAHistoricalsignificanceSHR criteria (a) &(b)

The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is important in the course and pattern of the culturalhistory of New South Wales because of its historical associations and significant documentary andphysical evidence of the evolution of the place (Criterion A). The Cemetery contains the remains offormer convicts and of Aboriginal people, as well as some burials that pre-date Civil Registration ofbirths, deaths and marriages in NSW. The cultural landscape of Moorefields Cemetery is historicallysignificant at a local level for its strong associations with a number of individuals and families importantin the development of the Canterbury City Council area. (Criterion B). The cemetery has strongassociations with significant individuals in the establishment and development of the Kingsgrove area.

AestheticsignificanceSHR criteria (c)

In the range of monument styles and the quality of craftsmanship Moorefields Cemetery is important indemonstrating aesthetic characteristics in New South Wales (Criterion C). For such a relatively smallburial ground, it displays an unusually diverse array of monumental types and designs.

SocialsignificanceSHR criteria (d)

The landscape of Moorefields Cemetery has strong associations with past and contemporarycommunities of the Kingsgrove and South Belmore area for social and cultural reasons. The place isheld in high esteem by significant groups within the present day community. There was strongcommunity opposition to proposals in the late 1960s to demolish the Cemetery. (Criterion D)

Technical/Research significanceSHR criteria (e)

It is considered that further research of the physical and documentary evidence related to MoorefieldsCemetery has the potential to contribute to a wider understanding of European occupation of NewSouth Wales, from the mid 19th century to the present day. (Criterion E) Further research of themonuments and the records of the burying grounds can lead to better interpretation of the history andheritage significance of the places, contributing to wider and better understanding of our past.

RaritySHR criteria (f)

Every cemetery is unique for it contains the human remains of a particular person, family orcommunity. By virtue of its historical associations with important persons and events in thedevelopment of the Canterbury City local government area, Moorefields Cemetery possesses rareaspects of the area’s cultural history. (Criterion F). Some of the burials pre-date 1856, the year ofintroduction of Civil Registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages in New South Wales.

RepresentativenessSHR criteria (g)

Moorefields Cemetery demonstrates the principal characteristics of a class of the cultural places ofNew South Wales (Criterion G). It is representative of small denominational burial grounds datingfrom the second half of the nineteenth century.

Integrity Medium to high. The original layout survives but the relationship to the former Methodist Church hasbeen altered by erection of solid fencing between the two properties. Landscaping in late 1980s haschanged overall appearance of place, rendering it more enclosed.



HERITAGE LISTINGSHeritage listing/s Classified on the Register of the National Trust of Australia (New South Wales)

Listed as an Indicative Place on the Register of the National Estate databaseListed as an Item of Environmental Heritage in Canterbury Planning SchemeOrdinance

INFORMATION SOURCESInclude conservation and/or management plans and other heritage studies.

Type Author/Client Title Year RepositoryWritten Miller, AW & WA Cant 100 years of Methodism at

Moorfields, MoorfieldsMethodist Church

1951 Canterbury City Council

Written Ormsby, Joyce Moorefields CemeteryRecords, Canterbury &District Historical Society


Writtenanddrawn

Tisdell, Joanne Moorefields CemeteryLandscape Sketch PlanL436, sheets 1 & 2


Written Musecape Pty Ltd Moorefields CemeteryConservationManagement Plan


RECOMMENDATIONSRecommendations

It is recommended that Moorefields Cemetery be included on the State HeritageRegister

SOURCE OF THIS INFORMATIONName of studyor report

Moorefields Cemetery Conservation Management Plan Year ofstudy orreport

2002

Item number instudy or reportAuthor of studyor report

Chris Betteridge, Musecape Pty Ltd

Inspected by Chris Betteridge

NSW Heritage Manual guidelines used? YesThis formcompleted by

Chris Betteridge Date 25.02.2003



IMAGES - 1 per pageImage caption View north in Moorefields Cemetery showing compressed earth/gravel paths and

variety of monuments.Image DCP04143.jpg

Image year 2003 Image by C Betteridge Imagecopyrightholder

CanterburyCity Council



IMAGES - 1 per pageImage caption Sandstone stele with footstone marking the grave of James Chard (section A.7) who

died on 29 March 1856. This is one of the oldest monuments in Moorefields Cemetery.Image DCP04153.jpg

Image year 15.02.2003 Image by C Betteridge Imagecopyrightholder




IMAGES - 1 per pageImage caption Fine massive gothic sandstone stelae near the southern corner of Moorefields

Cemetery.



Image DCP04041.jpgImage year 15.02.2003 Image by C Betteridge Image

copyrightholder




IMAGES - 1 per pageImage caption Fine ornate marble obelisk on pedestal, with gabled tablets and crocket ornaments, set

within an enclosure of iron picket fence. Grave of John Robert Peake, died 12 August1886 (buried in section D.17-19)Image DCP04147.jpg

Image year 15.02.2003 Image by C Betteridge Imagecopyrightholder



Appendix C Sample Visitor Survey Form


85

Moorefields CemeteryConservation Management Plan Project 2002/2003

V i s i t o r S u r v e yGood morning/afternoon. My name is and I've been asked by the Canterbury City Council to help them conduct a survey of visitors tothe cemetery so that Council can manage the area better and plan for its future conservation.

I would like to ask you a few questions about your visit. It will only take a couple of minutes and all of the information you provide will be treated inconfidence.

1. Where do you normally live ?Town / Suburb:

Postcode (if from Australia) Specify, if from overseas:

2. How often have you visited this cemetery in the past year ? 3. How long have you been here today

at least daily at least yearly less than 1 hour 3 hours

at least weekly less than yearly 1 hour 4 hours

at least monthly never before 2 hours more than 4 hours

4. What is the main purpose of your visit ? 5. What do you like about the Cemetery ?

6. Is there anything you specifically don't like about thecemetery? (Don't prompt)

7. Are there any improvements to the cemetery that you couldsuggest ?

8 How did you travel here today ? 9 How old are you ?

on foot by train 14 years or under 40 - 49

by car by bike 15 - 19 50 - 59

by bus other, please specify 20 - 29 60 years or over

10 Sex 30 - 39

Male Female

11 What type of group are you travellingwith today ? Date:

alone organised group Time:

with family other (please specify) Weather:

with friends Site Number

Thank you for your assistance


86

Appendix D Draft Cemetery Visitor Code


87

Moorefields Cemetery, Kingsgrove

DRAFT VISITOR CODE

Moorefields Cemetery is a very special place for the people of Kingsgrove,Canterbury City and New South Wales. Please help us care for the cemeteryby following a few simple rules during your visit.

We ask visitors to remember:

Observe all signs for your safety and information.

Respect the rights and needs of other visitors - a cemetery is a place forremembrance and quiet contemplation.

Place your rubbish in the litter bin provided or take it out with you.

Please report to Canterbury City Council any evidence of vandalism that yousee during your visit.

PLEASE DO NOT :

Damage or deface any monument or structure.

Damage or remove any plants.

Play ball games or run in the cemetery.

If you have any questions about this Visitor Code or would like moreinformation about the Cemetery, please write to The General Manager,Canterbury City Council, PO Box 77, Campsie NSW 2194Telephone (02) 9789 9300 during business hours.

For information about the history of the Cemetery contact Canterbury andDistrict Historical Society.


88

Appendix E Information in respect to burials in the MoorfieldsMethodist Cemetery, October, 1959


89


90

Appendix F Glossary


91

Altar A monument comprising a horizontal slab supported onmasonry, often rendered brickwork. The inscription may becarved into the slab and / or on tablets fixed to the sides.There are two examples at Allman Hill Burying Ground andseveral at Second Burying Ground.

Footstone A gravestone, usually a stele, at the foot of the grave. Usuallybears the initials of the person buried and the year of burial.Usually a smaller, less ornate version of the headstone.

Gravestone A grave marker such as a headstone, footstone or sculpture

Headstone A gravestone, usually a stele, at the head of the grave, bearingthe inscription, either carved directly into the stone or into atablet fixed to the stone

Leadlettering

The inscription on a marble monument is often in the form oflead lettering beaten into the pre-carved stone. Small drillholes in the carving help to key the lead into the inscription.

Pedestal Courses of stone or masonry above the plinth and supportingthe gravestone

Plinth The base course of a monument, in contact with the ground

Sloper A small block of stone or cement with a sloping top, to which amemorial plaque may be fixed. Ideally placed in front of theoriginal monument to add information to the inscription or toduplicate an inscription which has become illegible. Preferableto fixing plaques to the monuments themselves.

Stele An upright slab of stone, usually fixed into a base stone orplinth by a mortise and tenon joint +/- metal dowels. In thecemetery context, a stele may be a headstone or footstone

Stelae Plural of stele


92

Appendix G Illustrations


93

View south from Maramba Close showing recently constructed wall, fence and steps.Heavy screen planting around boundary makes cemetery enclosed.

(Photo: C Betteridge, 12 February 2002, DCP03017.jpg)

Entrance to Cemetery from Maramba Close showing bagged brickwork, metalpalisade fence, Federation Fund grant sign and notice on gate.



94

Information sign on entrance gate.(Photo.: C Betteridge, 12 February 2002, DCP03019.jpg)

General view of Cemetery looking northeast towards Church buildings.(Photo: C Betteridge, 12 February 2002, DCP03020.jpg)


95

Grave of Archibald Beacom (buried 2 December 1908, Section H 18-19). Whitemarble headstone has tilted and stele is broken, with top half resting against fence

inside enclosure. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04139.jpg)

Grave of Rowland Cragg (buried Section G.10-11), showing marble stele broken intwo pieces and displaced from its plinth. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February 2003,

DCP04140.jpg)


96

Bown and Ridgewell family graves in Sections D and C near south corner ofCemetery, showing fine sandstone stelae. Pruning of trees in this area during 2002has reduced potential damage to headstones and improved visitor access. (Photo:

C Betteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04141.jpg)

View to north over cemetery, showing compressed earth treatment of paths betweenplots. Tall obelisk is 1880s Peake family monument (Section D.17-19).



97

Pendlebury grave (Section B.17) dating from 1934, showing collapsed grave floor,damaged kerbs and statue surmount removed from above ‘Book of Life’ marble

plaque.(Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04144.jpg

James and Herbert Peake grave (Section D.14), showing marble stele broken intothree pieces.



98

Grave of Andrew Beacom (buried 1895, Section E.15016), showing badly damagedheadstone and parts of two iron fences. This grave can be tidied up but cost ofrepairs to stelae may be prohibitive. Parts should be documented. (Photo: C

Betteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04146.jpg)

White marble obelisk to John Robert Peake (1886, Section D.17-19) (Photo: CBetteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04147.jpg)


99

Grave of Isaac Peake (1920, Section F.16-18), a square marble column with bookand shroud surmount in iron palisade enclosure, showing biological staining. Brokenmonument in foreground shows damaged mortice and tenon joint where stele fitted

into plinth. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04148.jpg)

Grave of Edward Birch (1894, Section E.24), a square marble column with drapedurn surmount, showing biological staining of marble. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15

February 2003, DCP04150)


100

Woodley grave (1915, Section D.60-61), a double plot with tall sandstone desk andmarble slab, showing broken grave floor probably due to subsidence and vandalism.


Pithers graves (1895, Section A.3-4) near western corner of Cemetery, with twosandstone stelae in a simple iron palisade fence enclosure. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15

February 2003, DCPo4152.jpg)


101

Grave of James Chard (1856, Section A.7), a sandstone stele with footstone, is oneof the earliest monuments in the Cemetery. Lettering has been inappropriately

highlighted with black paint.(Photo: c Betteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04153.jpg)

Grave of Irvine family (1942, Section A1.68-69), a double plot with desk and slab.The grave floor slab has failed, showing subsidence of soil below.



102

General view of cemetery from southern corner (Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February2003, DCP04155.jpg)

View from Church end of Cemetery (near northwest boundary) showing compressedearth / gravel pathways and damaged monuments (Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February

2003, DCP04156.jpg)


103

View to north corner of Cemetery showing unsympathetic metal panel fencing and20th century desk and slab monuments, some of which have tilted due to

subsidence. Grave floor coverings include concrete, marble chips, scoria and glazedtiles. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February 2003, DCP04157.jpg)

View of Cemetery from northern corner, showing mainly desk and slab typemonuments.



104

Grave decorative items including a fluted marble urn and a glazed earthenware vaseon a hexagonal paving block. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15 February 2003,

DCP04159.jpg)

Several sandstone monuments near Cemetery entrance, showing tilting due tosubsidence and severe exfoliation and biological staining. (Photo: C Betteridge, 15

February 2003, DCP04160.jpg)


105

Double plot near Cemetery entrance showing iron stand for immortelle or floraltribute. (Photo: C Betteridge, 12 February 2002, DCP03021)


106

Appendix H Moorefields Cemetery Monument Inventory Form


107

Moorefields CemeteryMonument Inventory

ITEM DETAILSName of ItemItem typeItem groupItem categoryArea, Group, orCollection NameStreet numberStreet nameSuburb/town PostcodeLGAPropertydescriptionOwnerCurrent useFormer UseStatement ofsignificance

Level ofSignificance State Local

DESCRIPTIONMonumentalMasonPhysicalDescription

ConditionConstructionyears

Start year Finish year Circa

Modificationsand dates


108

Furthercomments

HISTORYHistorical notes


109

THEMESNationalhistoricalthemesStatehistoricalthemes

APPLICATION OF CRITERIAHistoricalsignificanceSHR criteria (a)

HistoricalassociationsignificanceSHR criteria (b)

AestheticsignificanceSHR criteria (c)

SocialsignificanceSHR criteria (d)

Technical/ResearchsignificanceSHR criteria (e)

RaritySHR criteria (f)

RepresentativenessSHR criteria (g)

Integrity

HERITAGE LISTINGSHeritage listing/s


110

INFORMATION SOURCESInclude conservation and/or management plans and other heritage studies.

Type Author/Client Title Year Repository

RECOMMENDATIONSRecommendations

SOURCE OF THIS INFORMATIONName of report Year of

reportItem number inreportAuthor of reportInspected byNSW Heritage Manual guidelines used? Yes No This formcompleted by

Date


111

IMAGES - 1 per pageImage caption

Image year Image by Imagecopyrightholder

IMAGE

photograph, sketch, map

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