General News
10 November, 2026
Annual clean up of city graves
THE community is being encouraged to visit the resting places of loved ones ahead of council’s annual cemetery clean-ups and check that only approved memorial items remain.
A council statement said over time, a variety of items could accumulate at gravesites, many of which have been placed with care and good intentions.
“To help keep cemeteries safe, respectful and well maintained for all visitors, council asks that prohibited items be removed,” it said.
“These items can become dislodged during high winds, create hazards for maintenance staff, obstruct drainage and, in some cases, make their way into nearby waterways and impact the surrounding environment.”
Council staff will be carrying out clean-ups from Friday 13 November, with works expected to take around a month.
Staff will be removing prohibited items such as:
Plastic flowers that are damaged and not contained in an approved receptacle
Glass and breakable items including vases, ceramic pots and ornaments
Draped or flying flags
AdvertisementLights (including solar or battery powered)
Alcohol or alcohol containers (full or empty)
Clothing, jewellery and accessories
Balloons, photo frames, candles or naked flames, windchimes, toys, furniture, statues or other ornaments
Anything with sharp edges, spikes or hooks
Potted plants.
“Families are encouraged to collect any valuable or sentimental items before 13 November, as removed items will not be stored or returned,” the statement said.
“Council will not be removing white crosses that are in good condition and adequately secured.”
