Issued 29 December 2021
VANDALISM AT NORTHERN MEMORIAL PARK
An act of vandalism occurred overnight on Friday 24 December in the Latrobe area of Northern Memorial Park in Glenroy, where a number of monuments were damaged.
The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust CEO Deb Ganderton said, “This criminal attack, particularly at this time, is devastating for the families affected and Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) staff, many of whom also have loved ones interred at GMCT cemeteries.”
As part of their ongoing investigation into these incidents Victoria Police responded quickly. They are reviewing footage from over 50 CCTV security cameras on the site. GMCT has already implemented all Victoria Police recommendations, and will continue to be guided by Victoria Police.
Anyone with information which can assist with the investigations is asked to make a report to Victoria Police on 131 444 or https://www.police.vic.gov.au/police-assistance-line-and-online-reporting,
or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime/.
While the police investigation continues GMCT is contacting every affected family to inform them of the damage and offer our support.
We will help families to understand the process to repair the damages. The cost of repair will be covered by a Victorian cemetery insurance scheme.
For all media enquires email media@gmct.com.au
About GMCT
Established in 2010, GMCT is a self-funding Class A Cemetery Trust regulated under the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act 2003 (Vic). We report to the Department of Health (DH) and are governed by a Trust appointed by the Minister for Health.
Our operations cover the north, west and east regions of metropolitan Melbourne, and we manage 19 cemeteries plus two greenfield sites.
We are a trusted partner supporting Victorian families through their experiences of life, death and grieving. We provide burial, cremation and memorialisation services to meet the needs of our diverse communities, and we encourage families to plan ahead.