From late 2021 to early 2023, we undertook an extensive consultation process to inform the masterplan for Harkness Memorial Park.

Before beginning any major design work, we sought insights from Traditional Owners, the local community, cultural and religious groups, industry and government. Their feedback played a significant role in shaping the final masterplan.

A staged approach

Due to the size and scale of the site, development will take place in stage. Early stages will focus on establishing the site memorial park and meeting immediate community needs, while future stages will introduce new ways of experiencing and engagement with the park. Over time, the site will evolve into a place that offers more than a traditional cemetery - growing with the community and its changing needs.

The masterplan sets the big-picture vision. Some community members may not yet see their detailed feedback reflected, but as design progresses, the Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) remain committed to incorporating community input wherever possible.

What we did

What we heard

Several key themes emerged (masterplan renders shown, by McGregor Coxall):

  • Celebrating Wurundjeri Culture

    The community strongly supported the inclusion of Wurundjeri people and Culture through environmental and cultural education. Many emphasised the site's connection to land and waterways, calling for spaces that tell cultural stories and reflect the site's heritage.

  • Sustainable practices and restoring the ecology

    There was broad support for sustainable interment options and restoring the site's natural ecology. The community valued native planting, attracting local wildlife, and the inclusion of revitalised nature corridors such as Arnolds Creek.

  • Inclusive and accessible memorialisation

    People highlighted the importance of affordable, accessible funeral and interment options that reflect the needs of different cultures, faiths and communities.

  • A peaceful, respectful sanctuary

    Some stakeholders expressed concerns that certain future uses of the site might disrupt quiet reflection. Many valued calm, respectful spaces as essential for grief and remembrance and raised concerns about noise, visual disruption, and maintaining a sense of sanctuary.

  • A space for community to celebrate life

    There was a strong interest in creating spaces that support both reflection and community connection, including:

    • open green areas and walking and cycling trails
    • use of native planting and water features
    • Seating and picnic spots
    • Clear views and effective litter management

  • Safety, access, and movement through the site

    The community emphasised the importance of safety, accessibility and clear wayfinding - espectially for people who may be grieving. Issues raised included:

    • Pedestrian and car access and pathway/road conditions
    • The need for well-lit paths, signage, and security
    • Vandalism and dumping

  • Activating the site through alternative uses

    People were interested in how the site might be activated through interim or complementary uses over time. Suggestions included:

    • a community garden
    • café or small restaurant
    • florist or plant nursery
    • multipurpose community or event spaces
    • opportunities for education and learning

Masterplan News Archive