New signs of life for lost figures

THE second oldest inland cemetery in Victoria launched a new trail and history walk dedicated to notable figures last Friday.

The new signage installed at Buninyong cemetery tells the story of 36 interesting locals who are buried on the grounds.

It includes notable historic figures Elizabeth Gullan, the first person to be buried on site in 1852, and the towns first doctor, principle and minister.

The grave of Thomas Hiscock, the first person to find gold in the Ballarat region, is also part of the trail.

Dr Barry Fitzgerald, the chairman of the cemetery trust, said the project was important so visitors can reflect on the region’s history.

“The wheel is turning, and there is so much change that people want to go back and put some roots down,” he said.

“People are beginning to reflect much more than I would have done as a kid when it comes to ancestry.”

Dr Fitzgerald said he hopes the trail can create a sense of pride for the community, with the project funded by the Buninyong Mount Helen Lions Club and the Community Bank.

Lions Club member David Page said supporting the project was an easy thing to do.

“The Lions Club is all about putting back into the community, and we are in a great position in Buninyong with an op shop and a book shop, which puts us in a position to raise funds,” he said.

“People will read these signs and get something out of them, because everyone wants to know the history of how Australia came to life.”

For those wanting to visit the cemetery, a free booklet with grave locations is available on site.