Wamberal Cemetery Plan of Management - Gosford City Council

Gosford City Council
Wamberal Cemetery
The Entrance Road, Wamberal
Plan of Management
Job No: 07210
Date: 28 May 2008

[Plan of Management – Wamberal Cemetery, The Entrance Road Wamberal]
Issue Date Description Author Reviewed By
5/12/07 Draft Ian Grant
A 13/5/08 Draft Ian Grant Client
B 27/5/08 Final Fiona Morrison
PO Box 1476 Gosford NSW 2250
•
Level 3, 19-21 Watt St Gosford NSW 2250
T 02 4324 3633 • F 02 4324 3771 • E info@andrewsneil.com.au • W www.andrewsneil.com.au
Andrews Neil Pty Ltd as Trustee for The Andrews Neil Group Unit Trust • ABN 55 633 432 460 • Andrew Dickson Nominated Architect (Registration No. 7657)

Executive Summary
Wamberal Cemetery is the City of Gosford’s second major necropolis and is a heritage
item identified in the City’s Planning Scheme Ordinance. Under the Local Government
Act, it is classified as “Operational Land. An effective Plan of Management must reflect
comprehensive analysis of all constraints and opportunities and; for Council to
accommodate emerging trends and demands for the use of the land.
This Plan of Management is based on analysis of all available background data and on
a detailed Site Analysis and Landscape Masterplan prepared by Andrews Neil Urban
Design. The document identifies the principal natural and built features of the
Cemetery, as well as the key components of its phases of development. It integrates
both into a series of suggested actions which also take full account of the staging
requirements and staffing resources advised by Council.
The principal recommendations of the Landscape Masterplan and this Plan of
Management relate to:
Environmental Conservation:
• Avoid construction of new structures in any location which will compromise the
dramatic landform of and views from the Cemetery
• Harvest on-site stormwater to create attractive water feature on creek line.
Cemetery Capacity
• Identification of possible tree removal and additional ground areas to increase
the burial capacity of the Cemetery into the future.
Design and Function
• Re-design of internal driveways and pathways to better link all areas of the
Cemetery
• Addition of plantings to better design specific places
• Supplementation of sheltered contemplative spaces in advantageous lections
• Additional parking capacity located to avoid adverse virtual impact
• Addition of viewing contemplation platform and creek-line water features
Interpretation
• Creation of centralised, sheltered, information and interpretation space
• Improved external identification
Sustainability of Operation
• Onsite water harvesting, to ensure capacity for future servicing of gardens and
lawns
Preventative Management
• Installation of access controls at entry from The Entrance Road to prevent right
turn access
The document confirms that the site has the capacity to provide more Lawn Cemetery
grave sites and that Wamberal Cemetery can be improved to ensure its reliance and
sustainability into the future.
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Contents
1.0 Introduction – Management Issues in a Cemetery ....................................................... 1
2.0 Management Plan Sections........................................................................................... 1
2.1 Introduction........................................................................................................ 1
2.1.1 Location and Formal Description .................................................................. 1
2.1.2 Status of Land ............................................................................................... 1
2.1.3 Current Heritage Listings .............................................................................. 2
2.1.4 Cemetery Management and Current Operating Policies .............................. 2
2.1.5 Location and Title details .............................................................................. 2
2.2 Historical Development of the Cemetery........................................................... 3
2.2.1 Main or Notable Periods of Use .................................................................... 5
2.3 Survey of Condition of Elements ....................................................................... 5
2.3.1 Current Description of the Cemetery and its Plan ........................................ 5
2.3.2 Alterations and Adaptations to the Cemetery ............................................... 5
2.3.3 Grave Types and Condition .......................................................................... 6
2.3.4 Buildings, Structures & Signage ................................................................... 6
2.4 Survey of Landscape and Vegetation ............................................................... 6
2.4.1 Landscape Plan and Planting within the Cemetery ...................................... 6
2.4.2 Context and Setting....................................................................................... 6
2.4.3 Existing Landscape and Vegetation Management Systems......................... 6
2.5 Conservation ..................................................................................................... 6
2.5.1 Comprehensive Conservation Policies for the Cemetery as a Whole .......... 6
2.5.2 Recommendations for Special Areas............................................................ 6
2.5.3 Plan / Layout of the Cemetery ...................................................................... 7
2.5.4 Conservation Techniques for Historic Graves and Monuments, including
Headstones, Iron Work, Kerbing, Grave Tops and Ledgers ....................................... 7
2.5.5 New Monumentation / Memorialisation on Existing Graves and within
Historic Areas .............................................................................................................. 7
2.5.6 Building and Structures................................................................................. 7
2.6 Landscape Masterplan ...................................................................................... 7
2.7 Traffic and Circulation........................................................................................ 7
2.7.1 Internal Roads and Paving............................................................................ 7
2.7.2 Access, Vehicle and Pedestrian Circulation and Parking for Visitors........... 7
2.8 Maintenance ...................................................................................................... 7
2.8.1 General Maintenance.................................................................................... 7
2.8.2 Maintenance or Reinstatement of original ground levels.............................. 7
2.8.3 Landscape Maintenance and Mowing .......................................................... 7
2.8.4 Weed and Animal Pest Control..................................................................... 7
2.8.5 Control of floral and other tributes on Graves............................................... 8
2.8.6 Care of War Graves, responsibility and contacts.......................................... 8
2.9 General Management Issues ............................................................................ 8
2.9.1 Opportunities for expansion and types of Burials ......................................... 8
2.9.2 Security ......................................................................................................... 8
2.10 Continuing Use Policy ....................................................................................... 9
2.11 Interpretation and Community Involvement ...................................................... 9
2.11.1 Consultation and Communication with Stakeholders ................................... 9
2.11.2 Options for Interpretation .............................................................................. 9
2.11.3 Friends Groups / Volunteers – Management, Briefing and Supervision....... 9
2.11.4 Tourism Potential .......................................................................................... 9
2.11.5 Marketing and Cultural Development.......................................................... 10
2.11.6 Consultation and communication with all stakeholders .............................. 10
2.12 Distribution and Review of Cemetery Management Plan................................ 10
Appendix A Analysis, Opportunities and Constraints Plan ................................................... 11
Appendix B Landscape (and Development) Masterplan ...................................................... 12
iAndrews Neil Pty Ltd
Urban Design.Architecture.Planning.Landscape Architecture.Ecology.Heritage.Graphic Design
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1.0 Introduction – Management Issues in a Cemetery
Public Cemeteries are:
• Places for remembrance, reflection and contemplation
• A repository of historical / cultural information
• Potential resources for interpreting the cultural histories of villages, towns and cites.
The cemetery is partly Crown Land subject to the provisions of the Crown Lands Act 1989.
The Principles of Crown land management are:
• That environmental protection principles be observed in relation to the management and
administration of Crown land.
• That the natural resources of Crown land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic quality) be
conserved wherever possible.
• That public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land be encouraged.
• That, where appropriate, multiple use of Crown land be encouraged.
• That, where appropriate, Crown land should be used and managed in such a way that both the land
and its resources are sustained in perpetuity.
• That Crown land be occupied, used, sold, leased, licensed or otherwise dealt with in the best interest
of the State consistent with the above principles.
Management of such resources should have the following local objectives:
• To ensure the availability of sufficient culturally – appropriate burial opportunities for all community
groups into the future.
• To provide appropriate spaces for contemplation and reflection.
• To accommodate appropriate levels of on-site car parking as well as access for hearses.
• To provide toilet facilities for visitors.
• To provide adequate levels of on-site signage and interpretive information.
• To allow for pedestrian circulation without compromising existing and potential burial sites / areas.
• To be appropriately landscaped according to a pre-determined or already – established theme.
• To provide appropriate levels of overall security and protection for burial sites.
• To provide an appropriate level of maintenance and facilities upgrading to ensure that current levels of
visual appeal are at the very least, maintained.
2.0 Management Plan Sections
2.1 Introduction
2.1.1 Location and Formal Description
The Wamberal Cemetery is located on the eastern side of The Entrance Road, some 100m south of the
roundabout at Tumbi Road. The Cemetery extends east from The Entrance Road to Wamberal Lagoon.
2.1.2 Status of Land
Wamberal Cemetery is classified “Operational Land” under the Local Government Act 1993. It is one of only
two operating public cemeteries under the care of Gosford City Council.
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Wamberal Cemetery is functional to the extent that, while the old denominational sections of the Cemetery
are closed, burials can still be carried out in pre-reserved sites which retain the capacity for further burials or
placements of ashes. The Cemetery has remained operational since 1881.
Clearing of native vegetation is permitted only by the Exclusions listed in Section 25 of The Native Vegetation
Act 2003.
The full list of Crown lots on our records that comprise part of Wamberal Cemetery are:
LOT DP DEDICATION NOTIFIED OWNER
170 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
171 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
172 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
173 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
199 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
303 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
304 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
455 755234 D1014788 23 September 1881 Crown Land – GCC Trustee
2.1.3 Current Heritage Listings
Unlike Point Clare Cemetery, Wamberal Cemetery is listed in the Heritage Schedule to the Gosford Planning
Scheme Ordinance. The listing does not indicate the Cemetery’s level of heritage significance. The
assessment for the place was completed in 1997 and an Inventory Sheet was prepared at that time.
2.1.4 Cemetery Management and Current Operating Policies
Wamberal Cemetery is currently managed by way of a series of Procedures, Requirements and Permits,
administered by Council’s Cemetery Officer and implemented by a part-time Cemetery Officer, two full-time,
on site staff, one the Zone Supervisor of Cemeteries and one, a Labourer/Gardener.
The purpose of Council’s “Requirements for Works within Council Cemeteries” document is to describe
Council’s requirements in relation to the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and the Occupational
Health and Safety Legislation 2001 and associated legislation, for when activities are to be carried out by
external agents, their employees or subcontractors. Any work undertaken within the Cemetery must have
been authorised by Permit. Council’s Cemetery Officer’s day-to-day management responsibilities include:
issue of permits; managing Council’s Cemeteries with safety and consideration; maintaining a management
system capable of ensuring continuous maintenance of the requirements; and maintaining proof of
compliance, and reporting to Council.
The activities covered by the “Requirements” are: funeral services; maintenance and construction of
structures and monuments, excavation, landscaping and site restoration; lifting, transport and disposal of
surplus materials.
Mowing is to be undertaken by Council.
The principal management issues in relation to the Cemetery are: ensuring future grave site capacity and;
physical enhancement to increase usage and visitation. The resultant land management issues are: where to
locate future burial sites and; what implications that has for tree and vegetation management / clearing.
2.1.5 Location and Title details
All activities conducted in Council’s Cemeteries must comply with the requirements of the Occupational
Health and Safety Act 2000 and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 and associated
legislation.
Cemeteries in New South Wales, are governed by a range of legislation, including:
• The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
Most cemeteries are zoned “Special Uses (Cemetery)” under current environmental planning legislation. This
zoning affords the cemetery statutory protection against other uses or development on the site.
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Many cemeteries are identified as “items of heritage significance” in the relevant Council’s Local
Environmental Plan (LEP). The inclusion of a cemetery within the “heritage schedule” of a LEP (or a
subsidiary development Control Plan) identifies it as an area of heritage importance which is to be
conserved. This usually requires specific approval by the local Council for any work other than routine
maintenance, whether or not the Council is the actual controlling authority for the cemetery.
While the Heritage Inventory sheet (1997) for the place recommends appropriately that an Assessment of
heritage impact should be required for all future proposals for works which may have potential to adversely
impact on the significance of the Cemetery, the form lacks significant supporting commentary and requires
upgrading. This is a management issue. The Heritage Inventory Sheet does not include a detailed site
history, statement of significance, locality diagram, or assessment against the standard Evaluation Criteria. It
also omits mention of important areas and graves. To allow for future Statements of Heritage Impact to be
based on the significance of the place, it is considered important to upgrade the information available on the
Heritage Inventory form. For this to occur, it may be necessary for Council to prepare a detailed survey of all
grave sites.
2.2 Historical Development of the Cemetery
“Cemetery Survey 1991 by Carol Anne Jordan”
Australia’s population comes from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds, Many buried at Wamberal, come
from the United Kingdom.
• As at 1997, the number of unmarked burials was approximately 2,473 with 1,731 monuments and
2,206 marked burials. Most monuments are made of granite.
• Earliest burial 1888.
• Original Plan surveyed in September 1880, provided for the cemetery to be divided into following
sections: Church of England, Roman Catholic, Wesleyan, Presbyterian, Independents and General.
• Dedicated 23 September 1881.
• Present day cemetery does not contain Wesleyan, Presbyterian or independent sections. (The area
originally set aside for them was an unpaved carpark as at 1991). Parts of the Roman Catholic and
General Sections were never cleared of scrub.
• The area originally designated for Church of England burials was not fully used by 1967 when control
passed to Gosford Council. Area still available became General Lawn Cemetery in 1970.
• Burial records lost – possibly in 1926 fire – but this does not account for the absence of records from
that date onwards. Because of inaccuracies of the existing plan, old sections were being (1991)
closed to prevent unintentional exhumation of corpses.
• All plots have been standardised in size.
• Wamberal is one of only two operational cemeteries.
• Most common headstone is “slab and desk” made of concrete. In the newer Lawn Cemetery,
concrete slabs are replaced by lawn and the ‘desk’ is usually of pink or black granite, but the format
remains standard.
• One obelisk and one sarcophagus.
• Several graves of people over 100 years… Mary Aime Pratt 1887 – 1990.
• Reason for the location of the lone white cross identifying “Kayla Shedden” is a mystery. Not old.
• It is unclear whether the area of the cross was ever used for the interment of still –born babies.
• Dumbrell of Gosford and McMurtrie, are the principal stonemasons.
• Some very early monuments appear to have been brought in from Sydney – marble with lead lettering.
These are rare in this cemetery, and therefore distinctive. Would have been costly.
• Generally ornamented concrete prior to 1970 and then solid chunks of pink or black granite.
• There are a number of unusual monuments including that of Dudley Kippax.
• Earliest burial is reported to have been in 1888 - probably one of the graves in the general section – or
possibly one of the unmarked graves. Earliest fully – legible gravestone is Gladys Dorothy Swadling
12/01/1905, but the illegible gravestone may be earlier. The Swadling and Gleeson families are well
represented, both pioneering families.
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• Monument of special interest include:
- Original ANZAC Jack Christie – 18/10/1964
- To the families of Gleeson, Swadling, Christie, Smith, Ward, Brooks, Scott, Towell, Whitehead
and Nunn.
- Yim Cheung Wong 1986 – only Asian monument at 1991.
- Another is the only Greek inscription to a Scotsman, David Grace.
• The fact that Wamberal wasn’t opened until 1861 suggests little local organised settlement before
then. Borne out in inscriptions referring to ‘pioneers” during the period 1900-1930.
• Significant increases in burials each decade after 1930. There are mainly Anglo-Saxon and few
Roman Catholic burials.
• The majority of headstones are modest, reflecting socio-economic profile.
• Wamberal Cemetery is a valuable historical resource and should be maintained as a monument to the
people of the area.
• The largest number of burials are in the Lawn Cemetery section, opened in 1970.
• Most burials are Church of England and the war periods are reflected in increased male graves.
The following information is drawn principally from the publication “Six Brisbane Water Cemeteries. A
Heritage Tour: by Jillian Baxter and supplemented by the Cemetery Survey undertaken in 1991 by Anne
Jordan.
The Cemetery was drawn up on Survey September 1880. The Plan of Survey provided for the Cemetery to
be divided into the following sections: Church of England, Roman Catholic, Wesleyan, Presbyterian,
Independent and General.
The fact that the Cemetery was not dedicated and opened before 1881, suggests little local organised
settlement before then. This is borne out in inscriptions referring to the deceased having been local are
“pioneers” during the first few decades of the 20 th Century.
The trend obviously continued until as late as the end of the 1960’s, because the largest number of burials in
the Cemetery, are in the Lawn Cemetery section, operational only after 1970. However, compared with the
very early years, there were significant increases in burials each decade after 1930, mainly of Anglo-Saxons
(Protestants) and few Roman Catholics.
Most burials are of Church of England people and the war periods 1914-1918 and 1939- 1945 are reflected
in increased male graves during those periods. The majority of headstone were (and remain) modest,
accurately reflecting the socio-economic profile of the area.
The Cemetery was dedicated the following year, but the earliest burial occurred in 1888. The exact location
of the first grave is not known but it is probably one of the graves in the General section or possibly one of
the unmarked graves. Parts of the Roman Catholic and General Sections were never cleared of scrub and
the present day Cemetery does not contain Wesleyan, Presbyterian or Independent section. The area
originally set aside for them was an unpaved carpark in 1991 and is now (2007). However, many of the dead
were born in the United Kingdom.
Even by 1967 when control and responsibility for management of the cemetery passed to Gosford Council,
the area originally designated for Church of England burials, was not fully used. IN 1970 the remaining area
was converted to Lawn Cemetery use.
The earliest, fully legible gravestone is that of Gladys Dorothy Swadling 12 January 1905, but the illegible
gravestones may be of older dates. If is known that both the Swadling and Gleeson families were local
pioneers. Both families are well represented in the Cemetery. Other families of likely early social significance
are those of: Gleeson, Christie, Smith, Ward, Brooks, Scott, Towell, Whitehead and Nunn, as various of their
number have monuments erected to them.
There is only one obelisk and one sarcophagus in the Cemetery. The headstones are generally ornamented
concrete prior to 1970 and then (Lawn Cemetery mainly), they are generally chunks of pink or black granite.
However, there are a few unusual and interesting monuments. They include:
• The early ones which are of marble with lead lettering - rare in this Cemetery and appear to have been
brought in from Sydney. They are distinctive and would probably have been costly.
• That honouring an original ANZAC Jack Christie, who died on 18 October 1964.
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• That to a Scotsman David Grace, but continuing the only Greek inscription in the Cemetery.
• That to Yim Chung Wong 1986, the only monument to an Asian.
Dumbrell of Gosford and McMurtrie are the principle Stonemasons represented by the Cemetery’s
headstones.
There is a lone white cross identifying “Kayla Shedden”. The name indicates a recent death (1989) which is
now identified as the stillborn section, but the reason for the location of the cross in not known. The cross is
now located Section 1 Row 2 Grave1.
Several of the graves are of centenarians, Mary Ann Pratt being the earliest born of these (1887-1990).
One of the major reasons for the need for Plan of Management for Wamberal, is that earlier burial records
were lost in 1926, possibly in the 1926 fire. However, record-keeping since that date has been poor, with the
result that as at 2001, old sections of the Cemetery were closed to prevent unintentional exhumation of
corpses. Theis situation has now been overcome through concentrating burials in the Lawn cemetery area.
In 1997, there were:
• Approximately 2206 marked graves
• Approximately 2473 unmarked graves
• Approximately 1731 monuments. Most monuments are made of granite.
The other principal reason for the need for a Plan of Management for Wamberal Cemetery is that it, with
Point Clare, is one of only two operational cemeteries in the local government area and it is a valuable
resource of local area history and should be maintained appropriately as a monument to the families of the
area.
2.2.1 Main or Notable Periods of Use
1881 – 1930 Establishment phase “Pioneer” burial period.
Post 1930’s – 1970 Rapid expansion compared with earlier period. Traditional grave sites, generally in
easterly sector, closer to water.
Post 1970 – 2000
Post 2000
Establishment of Lawn Cemetery. Rapid expansion in local area populations.
Increased demand for Lawn Cemetery space and for design for sustainability into the
future.
2.3 Survey of Condition of Elements
2.3.1 Current Description of the Cemetery and its Plan
Current Description of the Cemetery and its Plan.
Graves:
Roads:
Grassed Areas:
Trees:
Toilet Block Signs
In general, the graves are in good condition. However, there are some damaged
slabs and some titled graves on the southern boundary. This damage is indicative of
either subsidence or soil movement, possible caused by wet clayey soil.
The surface of the internal driveways is generally poor – and patched. The road
edges are loosely gravelled.
Generally well maintained.
In good condition. Some recent removal in the upper central portion of the site.
In sound condition.
There are no gates at the entry from the Entrance Road.
2.3.2 Alterations and Adaptations to the Cemetery
Apart from the surfacing of the internal road, installation of timber car barriers and the construction of the
toilet block (c1980’s) there have been few changes to the cemetery. There is a new retaining wall being built
along the boundary on The Entrance Road.
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2.3.3 Grave Types and Condition
See Section 2.2 for grave types and Section 2.31 for condition of graves. There are a number of illegible
early headstones, but little evidence (if any) of vandalism.
2.3.4 Buildings, Structures & Signage
The only notable building is the toilet block. The only other structures are the Information Board and the
vehicle barriers. The Board and the Section Signs are very understated. The Toilet Block is too imposing and
badly located.
2.4 Survey of Landscape and Vegetation
2.4.1 Landscape Plan and Planting within the Cemetery
Refer to the Landscape (and Development) Management Plan in Appendix A of this document.
2.4.2 Context and Setting
The Wamberal Cemetery is beautifully sited on east-sloping ground providing views over the Lagoon. It is
accessed via a climbing internal driveway from The Entrance Road. The Cemetery is separated from the
edge of the Lagoon, by swamp vegetation. There is bushland immediately to the north and bush and a creek
along its southern boundary. Beyond the creekline is residential development. The Entrance Road is a busy
arterial road, currently being upgraded.
2.4.3 Existing Landscape and Vegetation Management Systems
As per service agreement.
2.5 Conservation
2.5.1 Comprehensive Conservation Policies for the Cemetery as a Whole
The range of policies required to provide for comprehensive conservation and management of Wamberal
Cemetery into the future, must respond to the following:
• Retention of the identified heritages values of the site.
• Retention and conservation of all component/s elements identified as contributing to the significance
of the significance of the Cemetery.
• Policy for the gradual removal of all components / elements identified as being “intrusive” ie
compromising the significance of the site.
• Policies for general maintenance, and reconstruction based on avoiding any unnecessary intervention
into the site.
• Policy to address changes of function / use of any space within the Cemetery.
• Policies for signage and interpretation, both internal and external to the site.
• Policies for special areas such as entrances, denominational areas, dedicated memorial sections and
still born baby sections.
2.5.2 Recommendations for Special Areas
The areas identified for special attention (refer to Masterplan) are:
• Boundary wall to the Entrance Road – special identification signage.
• New “Information/Interpretation space.
• Internal approach driveway and arrival point.
• New Amenities location and carpark.
• New seating and covered contemplative spaces.
• New Stillborn graves area detail.
• New observation deck / contemplative space.
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2.5.3 Plan / Layout of the Cemetery
The layout of the Cemetery is as described above and on the new Landscape (and Development)
Masterplan. The layout is generally as it has been since 1970, when the Lawn Cemetery section was added.
2.5.4 Conservation Techniques for Historic Graves and Monuments, including Headstones, Iron Work,
Kerbing, Grave Tops and Ledgers
Cemetery headstones are not owned by Council. Therefore, maintenance of headstones are not maintained
Council. Where headstones are damaged, Council will contact the family owners. If any headstone becomes
a listed heritage item, and where funds are available, local funding assistance can be provided.
2.5.5 New Monumentation / Memorialisation on Existing Graves and within Historic Areas
As per Council Guidelines.
2.5.6 Building and Structures
See previously and see recommendations for alterations, on Landscape (and Development) Masterplan.
Relocation of the Toilet Block is recommended along with the addition of a centralised Information /
Interpretation space. A covered contemplative space is also recommended as a component of the
proposed viewing platform.
2.6 Landscape Masterplan
Issues of lighting, electrical supply, water supply, stormwater control and drainage, storage sheds and
rubbish areas, amenities, signs and markers are included in the Landscape Masterplan (see Appendix A).
2.7 Traffic and Circulation
2.7.1 Internal Roads and Paving
Works currently being undertaken by external contractors, include resurfacing and extension as indicated on
the Masterplan.
2.7.2 Access, Vehicle and Pedestrian Circulation and Parking for Visitors
Refer to Masterplan for all proposed alterations and upgrades. The work will included installation of security
access gates at the entry fro the Entrance Road.
2.8 Maintenance
2.8.1 General Maintenance
• In order to maintain the cemetery safely, efficiently and within budget, maintenance standards and
priorities as detailed in the Service Agreement with the providers will be reviewed on an ongoing
basis.
• All service providers are required to adhere to Council's Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
• Council aims to optimise the use of water, fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides according to the
principles of environmentally sustainable development.
2.8.2 Maintenance or Reinstatement of original ground levels
As per Service Agreement – Refer Section 2.8.1 above.
2.8.3 Landscape Maintenance and Mowing
As per Service Agreement – Refer to Section 2.8.1 above.
2.8.4 Weed and Animal Pest Control
Retain all littoral and endemic vegetation where possible. Reduce loss of old habitat trees.
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Rehabilitate site edges meeting Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve through removal of weed species
(Lantana, Bitou Bush, Asparagus Fern, etc) and re-plant/landscape using only endemic species of the area.
(Wamberal Lagoon Conservation Society may be utilised to rehabilitate area around proposed viewing
deck).
Minimal use of fertilisers onsite to reduce risk of Lagoon contamination, minimal tree removal and
rehabilitation / revegetation of adjacent reserve drainage channel.
* Note regarding rabbits, foxes and dogs/cats being the main pests (fauna) onsite but there is little evidence.
2.8.5 Control of floral and other tributes on Graves
As per Council Standards.
2.8.6 Care of War Graves, responsibility and contacts
The Office of Australian War Graves (OAWG) is part of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. It has three
distinct roles:
• To maintain war cemeteries and individual war graves within Australia and the region, as agents of the
Commonwealth War Graves Commission;
• To officially commemorate eligible veterans who have died post-war and whose deaths are accepted
as being caused by war service;
• To provide and maintain national memorials overseas.
They can be contacted at the Office of Australian War Graves, PO Box 21, Woden, ACT, 2606 Phone 6289
6517.
2.9 General Management Issues
2.9.1 Opportunities for expansion and types of Burials
The main driver behind the preparation of the Wamberal Plan of Management was, also like for Point Clare
Cemetery, the need to ensure availability of grave sites into the future. However, this need is somewhat more
urgent at Wamberal Cemetery because the residual land area is not as great and poses somewhat greater
access and circulation management. Wamberal Cemetery is not as flat or open as Point Clare and the land
available for potential expansion, is not as easy to adapt.
Again, like Point Clare, Wamberal needs to provide shelter for visitors and needs better facilities, addition car
parking spaces and on-site interpretation.
The only area available for additional Lawn Cemetery plots is the western side adjacent to The Entrance
Road. When the Citywide comprehensive LEP is adopted next year the two lots Councill has acquired from
the Crown will be rezoned for burials.
Because of the great views of the water from the top of the site, locating any additional car parking spaces
within the view frame should be avoided. Hence it is desirable to contain any new areas of car parking to the
land BEHIND the viewer. That is, additional car parking spaces should be concealed within the area of
sparsely-planted trees, in the area of the middle of the site, against the road boundary.
The physical advantage of the entry access road at Wamberal Cemetery, is that it emerges into the open at
the top of the rise and at a point providing the best possible view over the Cemetery and on to the lake. It
also takes the visitor to the intersection of the two short branches of the internal roads. At this point, there is
currently ample space for an Interpretation and Signage board and for a shelter for contemplation.
Installation of these facilities at this point is recommended, along with centralised toilet facilities.
Because of the “stillness” and isolation of the site and the beautiful water view from the sloping site, spaces
for contemplation can be located in many spots. An opportunity which presents itself, is that of extending the
road down the slope, to a point where a viewing platform, possible covered, can be built, with seating
oriented towards the lake.
2.9.2 Security
It is recommended that security gates be installed at the entry from The Entrance Road and the opening and
Gosford City Council, Plan of Management Wamberal Cemetery Page 8
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closing of the gates and regular security patrols be included in Council’s security contract.
2.10 Continuing Use Policy
The principal purpose of the Wamberal Cemetery Plan of Management, is to provide the basis for
appropriate future managed development and therefore to ensure its relevance and continuing use into the
future.
Council intends to remove insignificant vegetation and to stage future development of additional grave site.
In addition, Council intends to make the site more interesting, attractive and educational to visitors, through
undertaking: a range of interpretive work, including reinstatement of front entry identifications; new,
consistently designed directional and site signage, and additional of sheltered and contemplative areas.
2.11 Interpretation and Community Involvement
2.11.1 Consultation and Communication with Stakeholders
No amount of physical upgrading and Interpretation of the Cemetery will be of value if no-one knows about
it. Further, worthwhile interpretation requires comprehensive background information and an understanding
of local community aspirations – especially of the aspirations of the principal interest groups.
It is appropriate for the local community to be advised of Council’s initiatives by way of invitations to all key
interest groups to review Council’s Draft Plan of Management. The Plan of Management sets the context for
and identifies all proposed interventions and proposed means of interpreting the place.
These should be reviewed and commented on by the community so that nothing important is missed and so
that the Cemetery retains its cultural significance and relevance for future generations. Both individual and
group inputs should be accepted and reviewed by Council, with all respondents being given an opportunity
to confirm the accuracy of the final document before its adoption by Council.
2.11.2 Options for Interpretation
Proposals to enhance internal Cemetery interpretation are as indicated on the Masterplan.
All unusual grave sites (previously identified) should be identified on the new Interpretation Board and should
be identified at the Section itself.
2.11.3 Friends Groups / Volunteers – Management, Briefing and Supervision
Wamberal Cemetery is currently managed by Council though the dedication of one part-time Cemetery
Officer and two full-time ground staff.
Opportunities for Friends Groups / Volunteers fall most readily into the areas of general maintenance and
fund raising. Possible volunteer general maintenance activities could include: community day rubbish; graffiti
removal; passive surveillance and reporting; gravestone general cleaning and hedge trimming and removal
of fallen branches. Management of the inputs of all volunteers should remain with Council’s nominated staff
who should have authority to order any volunteer to cease any potentially harmful intervention.
2.11.4 Tourism Potential
There are no Cemeteries identified in the Central Coast Tourism Strategy and this is to be expected.
Cemeteries are generally of interest only to: locals who know where they are; visitors who have an interest in
local history and; special interest group such as National Trust members.
Although the Cemetery has very limited tourism potential, well-conceived, appropriate interpretation and
upgrading of it, can be expected to result in greater visitation / use by locals and their guests. This in turn
can be expected to result in increased positive word-of-mouth comments about its value/ attractiveness.
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2.11.5 Marketing and Cultural Development
Improved interpretation of Cemeteries in-situ, along with Plans of Management which: incorporate
appropriate interpretation and; are available on Council’s website, will automatically improve the availability
of valuable cultural development data. The availability of improved information on the internet can only have
positive benefits, no matter how small the initial impact. With the availability of improved historical and
interpretive data, adding the information to local Tourism Plans / Strategies, would not be unreasonable. It
would also be appropriate for Council to provide and have available free for all visitors to Council offices and
libraries, small flyers on its Cemeteries. These could also be made available to other Central Coast and
Hunter libraries and to special interest groups such as the National Trust and Historic House Trust.
2.11.6 Consultation and communication with all stakeholders
The initiative for this action rests with Gosford City Council. Council could initiate discussion based on the
information compressed into the flyers. Educating the community about the historic and cultural content of
Point Clare and Wamberal cemeteries, should start with Primary School children. Local Primary Schools
could be encouraged to take on voluntary carer roles, with regular visits for maintenance of the grounds.
Children could be educated about specific important graves and be rewarded academically for appropriate
care of specific sites and for documenting their involvement and understanding.
In the bigger picture, the history of the Cemeteries could readily be incorporated into the Local History
syllabus of Primary or Secondary Schools.
2.12 Distribution and Review of Cemetery Management Plan
The Wamberal Cemetery Plan of Management should become an integral component of Gosford City
Council’s Business Plan to ensure that the budgetary and other recommendations are addressed in the
same way as all other Council infrastructure management responsibilities. Copies of the Plan of
Management should be distributed to:
• Council’s Director, Corporate Services
• The Cemetery Officer, and
• The Cemeteries Staff Supervisor.
In addition to the above, the document should be accessible on Council’s website, with its addition to the
website being advised in all local newspapers.
The Plan of Management should be reviewed every time Council reviews its Business Plan.
REFERENCES
“Cemetery Survey 1991 by Carol Anne Jordan”
Gosford City Council, Plan of Management Wamberal Cemetery Page 10
Andrews Neil Pty Ltd
FM/07210/051207RevB

Appendix A
Analysis, Opportunities
and Constraints Plan
Gosford City Council, Plan of Management Wamberal Cemetery
Andrews Neil Pty Ltd
FM/07210/051207RevB

LANDSCAPE ZONES
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
NORTHERN BOUNDARY
This boundary is defined by dense coastal vegetation adjacent to the
lawn burial area. No formal fenceline exists. There is an opportunity
to create a formal pathway that travels the length of this edge to
encourage circulation around the entire site as most pedestrian
movement occurs across the length of and through the graves.
EASTERN BOUNDARY
Thick coastal vegetation bounds the eastern portion of the site and marks
the lowest point within the cemetery. This dense vegetation covers the
land to the edge of Wamberal Lagoon. Selective clearing of some of this
vegetation presents opportunities to create stronger views of the Lagoon
from the elevated portions of the site. An opportunity also exists to create
a viewing platform that takes in views of Wamberal Lagoon.
SOUTHERN BOUNDARY
The southern edge of the site is defined by native and exotic vegetation.
The middle portion of this boundary directly adjoins the edge of an existing
lawn burial area whereas above and below this section open lawn and
a gravel drive provides distance between the boundary and the burial
areas. Informal paths move through the boundary and into the adjoining
public reserve. Opportunities exist to create stronger links between the
cemetery and the adjoining public reserve.
WESTERN PORTION
This area is defined by a gentle batter that slopes down towards The
Entrance Road and to the edge of current RTA roadworks. Bounded by a
new concrete wall and a bike path, this portion of the site is relatively open
with large stands of existing Eucalypts and an open understorey. Current
RTA site offices and stockpile areas are located in this area and their
affect on the site soil and vegetation will need to be mitigated through the
proposed landscape plan.
CEMETERY ENTRY
Due to a lack of signage and the current RTA works along The Entrance
Road the cemetery entry is easily overlooked. No defining signs or
directions guide visitors into the site and opportunities exist to formalise
the entry with plantings and signage in order to give the cemetery a
defining road presence and identity. Large stands of existing Eucalypts
instantly give the entry road a unique character and future plantings
should compliment and extend on this informal avenue feel.
SOUTHERN OPEN SPACE
This area is characterised by open lawn space interspersed with stands
of Eucalypts and a cluster of shrubs and grasses at the base of their
trunks. The elevation of this area provides strong panoramic views across
Wamberal Lagoon and in some locations the ocean can be seen. This
area presents opportunities for lawn burials that retain existing stands of
trees for shaded seating and reflective spaces.
NORTHERN OPEN SPACE
This area is mainly open lawn with its edge defined by stands of Eucalypts.
Opportunities exist in this area to extend the lower lawn burial areas whilst
maintaining the enclosing vegetation to create a large garden room. The
top of this area within the existing vegetation presents an ideal location
for a small reflective space with seating that takes in the views across the
cemetery.
OPPORTUNITY TO FORMALISE SITE ENTRY
THRESHOLD THROUGH SIGNAGE AND
PLANTING
EXISTING BIKE PATH
RTA INSTALLED RETAINING WALL
CURRENT AREA OF
RTA SITE OFFICES AND
INFORMAL CARPARKING.
AREA SUFFERING FROM
COMPACTION AND IS IDEAL
LOCATION FOR CEMETERY
CARPARK
POTENTIAL KEY SIGNAGE
AND GATHERING AREA
ONSITE DUE TO LOCATION
AND PROSPECT
POTENTIAL AREA FOR
COUNCIL STOCKPILING
AS BATTER DEEMS
IT UNSUITABLE FOR
BURIALS
THE ENTRANCE ROAD
4
5
THICK COASTAL
VEGETATION
CURRENT
RTA
STOCKPILE
OPPORTUNITY FOR
REFLECTIVE SPACE WITHIN
CANOPY OF EXISTING TREES
6
7
EXISTING
DIRECTION
BOARD
VIEWS TO
WAMBERAL
LAGOON AND
OCEAN
VIEWS TO
WAMBERAL
LAGOON AND
OCEAN
EXISTING LAWN
BURIALS
EXISTING LAWN
BURIALS
EXISTING PARKING
EXISTING TOILETS
VIEWS TO
WYRRABALONG
NATIONAL PARK
AND HEADLANDS
EXISTING LAWN
BURIALS
EXISTING LAWN
BURIALS
8
1
EXISTING LAWN
BURIALS
9
10
EXISTING LAWN BURIALS
FILTERED VIEWS
TO WAMBERAL
LAGOON
EXISTING LAWN
BURIALS
EXISTING LAWN
BURIALS
THICK COASTAL
VEGETATION
2
THICK COASTAL
VEGETATION
POTENTIAL TO
EXTEND EXISTING
MEMORIAL GARDENS
TO ENCOMPASS
LARGE EXISTING
TREES
POTENTIAL FOR
WALKWAY AND
VIEWING PLATFORM AT
EDGE OF LAGOON
CHILDRENS LAWN
BURIAL
8
NORTHERN GRAVE SITES
A mix of old and new graves, this area is predominantly turf with a few
scattered exotic shrub species. The lower older grave section is in need
of restoration with weeds and some grave subsidence. Opportunities
exist to restore older graves and include interpretation if any graves within
this area are significant.
APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF
EXISTING DRAINAGE LINE
3
EXISTING INFORMAL
ACCESS INTO
PUBLIC RESERVE
9
SOUTHERN GRAVE SITES
The upper and lower portions of this lawn burial area are
predominantly older graves with the lower portion containing some
of the oldest burials. The central portion contains relatively newer
burials and headstones all set within an open lawn. From the
southern grave sites there are clear panoramic views of Wamberal
Lagoon.
NEIGHBOURING RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES
11
TO WAMBERAL
LAGOON
10
11
ACCESS ROAD
The existing asphalt access road through the Cememtery is in poor
condition and in need of upgrading. Opportunities exist to use
different pavement types throughout the cemetery to differentiate
areas and to increase the aesthetics of the site. There is also the
opportunity to install a consistent edge to the road through guttering
or kerbs.
PUBLIC RESERVE
The land adjoining the southern site boundary is currently a densly
vegetated public reserve with a small and degraded drainage line
flowing into Wamberal Lagoon. Informal tracks and drainage line
crossings pass from the cemetery to the neighbouring properties.
An opportunity exists to utilise the reserve space for a small section
of path that allows pedestrian access around a section of graves
that currently adjoin the southern site boundary.
LOCATION MAP
LEGEND
POTENTIAL REFLECTIVE /
MEMORIAL SPACE
POINT OF PROSPECT WITH
GOOD VIEWS
CLEAR DISTANT VIEWS
FILTERED DISTANT VIEWS
EXISTING TURF
EXISTING TREES
EXISTING LOW POST AND
RAIL FENCE
DRAINAGE LINE
INFORMAL PATH
EDGE OF EXISTING THICK
COASTAL VEGETATION
RESERVE PATH OPPORTUNITY
Wamberal Cemetery
The Entrance Road, Wamberal
Analysis, Opportunities and Constraints Plan
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Appendix B
Landscape (and Development)
Masterplan
Gosford City Council, Plan of Management Wamberal Cemetery
Andrews Neil Pty Ltd
FM/07210/051207RevB

PROPOSED LANDSCAPE SPACES
LOCATION MAP
THE ENTRANCE ROAD
EXISTING BIKE PATH
EXISTING BIKE PATH
15
3
16
COUNCIL
STOCKPILE
2
A
8
1
5
4
APPROX 1190
LAWN PLOTS
APPROX 1180
LAWN PLOTS
12
6
EXISTING PUBLIC RESERVE
EXISTING PARKING
EXISTING BURIALS
EXISTING THICK COASTAL VEGETATION
EXISTING BURIALS
EXISTING GRAVEL DRIVE
EXISTING BURIALS
EXISTING GRAVEL DRIVE
LAWN AREA
PREPARED FOR
FUTURE BURIALS
13
EXISTING
BURIALS
11
7
14
9
B
EXISTING
THICK
COASTAL
VEGETATION
EXISTING
THICK
COASTAL
VEGETATION
10
VIEWS ACROSS
WAMBERAL
LAGOON
1
2
3
4
5
6
SITE ARRIVAL SIGNAGE AND
DIRECTION BOARD:
Curving sandstone walls guide motorists
into the carpark area and exhibit interactive
site information such as cemetery history,
grave locations and directions. The
area behind the walls becomes a quiet,
reflective seating space utilising the clear
views to Wamberal Lagoon and the ocean.
Opportunities exist to include a weather
shelter and bench seats within the wall
structure as well as lighting to highlight the
shelter structure and signage at night.
OVERFLOW CARPARK AND
AMENITIES BLOCK:
Additional carparking will be provided at
the current location of the RTA site office.
Existing trees will be retained and the
parking will work with the existing landform
and tree locations. The existing amenities
block is to be upgraded and relocated to a
more central position between the parking
and main signage area to open up stronger
views across the site towards the Lagoon.
SITE ENTRY FROM THE
ENTRANCE ROAD:
Sandstone walls mark the entry into
Wamberal Cemetery and low mass
plantings create an avenue feel within
the informality of the existing Eucalypts.
Resurfacing of all roads within the cemetery
will help to reinforce public roads and those
designated for hearse. Entry road will be
gated and opened and closed daily.
PROPOSED LAWN BURIAL
AREA 1 :
Dense plantings around the edge of the
burial lawn creates the sense of a large
scale garden room. A central avenue allows
hearse access and a looping path provides
pedestrian access. Approximately 2350
new lawn burial plots will be created across
both lawn burial areas.
PROPOSED LAWN BURIAL
AREA 2 :
Open lawn burial area with central hearse
access. Mass feature plantings and small
shade trees along the western edge creates
a backdrop for bench seating and creates
an informal reflective space taking in views
across the site and towards Wamberal
Lagoon. A gravel path provides access
around the lawn graves and links in with the
path circuiting the site.
CIRCUIT PATH:
A decomposed granite path circuits the
site allowing the cemetery to be used by
nearby residents for passive recreation
and to allow for a sequential and easily
accessed experience of spaces. Along
the southern edge the path diverts into the
edge of the neighbouring reserve in order
to pass existing graves hard against the
southern site boundary.
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
FORMALISED TURNING CIRCLE:
Terminating central drive with large feature
tree and plantings.
MEMORIAL GARDEN ROOM:
Overlooking new lawn burial area with
reflective feature pond and seating.
CREMAINS / MEMORIAL
GARDEN ROOM:
Winding through clearings in existing
coastal vegetation providing a private and
reflective space. Cremain plaques to be
positioned on randomly placed sandstone
slabs within native grasses.
VIEWING DECK:
A quiet, reflective space overlooking
Wamberal Lagoon and terminating the
central drive. Adjoins the loop track that
circles the cemetery. Opportunity to place
water tank beneath decking.
CHILDRENS MEMORIAL
GARDEN:
Sandstone boulders, seating, feature trees
and dense planting creates an enclosed and
reflective ‘room’ and provides an opportunity
for memorial plaque installation.
UPGRADE OF EXISTING
CREMAIN / MEMORIAL
GARDENS:
Extending on the existing gardens and
upgrading them to match in with the
natural, coastal aesthetics of the proposed
landscaping.
EXTENSION TO EXISTING
MEMORIAL GARDENS:
Utilising large existing trees to extend on
the current memorial gardens.
CREMAINS GARDEN BELOW
OLDER RESTORED BURIALS
WESTERN SITE BOUNDARY
FACING THE ENTRANCE ROAD:
The existing RTA wall to be retrofitted with
materials and signage that link into the
signage system proposed for within the
cemetery. Signage, materials and planting
along this western edge will provide the
cemetery with a greater roadside presence
and a stronger sense of identity.
COUNCIL STOCKPILE
Storage area for council soils and mulches
screened from cemetery and road by
existing vegetation.
B
LEGEND
A
EXISTING TREES
PROPOSED TIMBER SEAT
SANDSTONE SLABS
HARDWOOD SLATS
PROPOSED TREES
EXISTING VEGETATION
PROPOSED FEATURE
PLANTINGS
PROPOSED CEMETERY
DIRECTION AND HISTORY BOARD
PROPOSED FORMAL
PAVED AREA
PROPOSED ORNAMENTAL
GRASSES
PROPOSED GATE
PROPOSED COUNCIL SOIL
STOCKPILE
PROPOSED FEATURE
SIGNAGE WALLS
CREMAINS GARDEN CONCEPT:
Use of sandstone slabs to display cremation plaques
within a soft and natural landscape setting.
MEMORIAL POND
INFORMAL CREMAINS GARDEN
INDICATIVE CHARACTER OF AMENITY
BLOCK AND WEATHER SHELTER OVER
MAIN SIGNAGE AREA
PROPOSED SECTION SIGNAGE
PROPOSED SANDSTONE
PLAQUE SLABS
PROPOSED REFLECTION
POND
NOTE: All recommendations in this Masterplan are subject to relevant agencies approval.
ENTRY ROAD PERSPECTIVE LOOKING TOWARDS FEATURE SIGNAGE WALL:
Mass native planting amongst existing Eucalypts reinforces the entry experience and focal signage
wall guides traffic into the heart of the site.
Wamberal Cemetery
The Entrance Road, Wamberal
Cemetery Masterplan
07210 March 2008
TN
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