In touch with life's cycle
Sandgate's Open Day is an exciting inaugural event.
One of the region's oldest and largest cemeteries is opening its gates wider than usual during an inaugural Open Day on Sunday, May 26.
Attractions include historical walks and talks, a hearse display, art and flower shows, harp playing, history of grave digging presentations, and performances by The Marching Koalas (11am -1pm). A Virtual Tour will also be launched.
Northern Cemeteries' Chief Executive Officer, Pauline Tritton, said the free event is designed to deepen the facility's unique connection and contribution to the region, which spans more than two centuries
"Sandgate Cemetery provides an important and caring service to a range of diverse communities across the Hunter, all with differing cultural and religious practices and requirements," Mrs Tritton said.
"We also strive to be an active member of our community - and that means letting people of all ages know we are here as much for the living as we are for those who are remembered."
Sandgate Cemetery opened in 1881 and was originally located a long distance from various villages which eventually combined to form the City of Newcastle. Older cemeteries dating from the early settlement of Newcastle after 1804 were relocated to Sandgate. In the early days, access to the cemetery was by river and road, but more commonly by train which continued until 1985.
Recent upgrades have significantly improved the site which houses 85,000 citizens of NSW, mostly from the Hunter.
The cemetery is a welcoming place for people and loved ones who tend graves, along with visitors and history enthusiasts wanting to discover and understand more about the people who helped shape and define our region's rich history.
Located on Crown land along Sandgate Road, the not-for-profit community cemetery was historically managed by a variety of religious trusts. The regional landmark is now administered by Northern Cemeteries.
"Sandgate's Open Day is an exciting inaugural event as it not only showcases the important role cemeteries play within their community, but also encourages us to be more familiar with all aspects of the life cycle," Mrs Tritton said.
"If you have ever driven past the site and wondered about what you may discover on the other side of our magnificent gates, we invite you to bring along the family and join us on the big day."
