Learn about end-of-life options & explore grounds at Cemetery Open Day

Published on 21 March 2025

Whether you are interested in local history, want to explore your ancestry, or are considering your end-of-life wishes, Cessnock City Council’s Cemetery Open Day is not to be missed.

Gordon Williams Memorial Cemetery will be the setting for the day of discovery, reflection, and community between 11am and 2pm on Saturday, 5 April.

The event will include guided tours of the grounds and historical landmarks, information sessions on memorial options, and a sausage sizzle put on by Cessnock Lions Club.

Wollombi Sandstone will also demonstrate how inscriptions are put onto gravestones.

Cessnock City Mayor Dan Watton said the open day was a chance for the community to enjoy the beautiful grounds of one of the Cessnock local government area’s 10 council-managed cemeteries.

"As well as being places of reflection, remembrance, and celebration, Cessnock City Council’s cemeteries contain a wealth of historical information, dating back to the early days of European settlement in the Hunter Valley," said Clr Watton.

"This open day is an opportunity to not only learn more about our rich history, but also to take some time to consider your own end-of-life wishes.

"Planning ahead can give you peace-of-mind and allows loved ones to honour your life and respect your wishes in a meaningful way."

For more information about the open day or about Cessnock City Council’s cemeteries and interment options, contact Customer Relations on 4993 4100 and request to speak with Council’s Cemetery Officer, or email: cemetery@cessnock.nsw.gov.au.

Gordon Williams Memorial Cemetery is located at 134 Greta Street, Aberdare.