This is according to Shepparton cemetery historian Jeanette Doherty, who will soon highlight these stories in a historic cemetery walk next month.
Mrs Doherty has been an avid researcher of the Shepparton Public Cemetery’s history since she was on the cemetery trust years before.
Two years ago, she published a book, A History of the Shepparton Public Cemetery 1876 to 2021.
Even after leaving the cemetery trust, her passion for its history continued, and she currently runs the Shepparton Public Cemetery’s Facebook page, where she writes about the history of those buried there.
Mrs Doherty has hosted three historic cemetery walks and sees them as an opportunity to share her insights with others.
“There are some very interesting stories out there, and they are our early pioneers and colonialists,” she said.
“One can hardly imagine nowadays what Shepparton was like back in those very early days.
“They provided us with the thriving city we have today.”
Mrs Doherty said they would be walking along the paths as she discussed the cemetery’s history and past and present operations.
As they visit the graves of some of Shepparton’s early pioneers, she will share their stories.
“I think most people who come out to the tours are interested in the cemetery itself and the history of it and how it operates, and we’re very lucky to have this wonderful historic cemetery here in Shepparton that is so well kept,” Mrs Doherty said.
“It is history in the making out there.”
Mrs Doherty encourages participants to wear sturdy shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
The walk will take place on Sunday, April 14, at 11am.
Bookings are not required, and the group will meet outside the front of the Shepparton Public Cemetery office.
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