Tag: Waverley Cemetery

Writers’ Residency to Begin at Waverley Cemetery

Photo Credit: NSW Gov

Local authorities in Waverley are launching a writers’ residency program at the caretaker’s cottage in Waverley Cemetery, offering literary practitioners a dedicated space within a heritage-listed site.

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Historic Grounds Set for New Use

Waverley Cemetery, located in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, officially opened on 1 August 1877. Designed according to Victorian-era principles, it features geometric pathways and marble monuments. Public access increased in 1890 following the arrival of the steam tramway, further embedding the cemetery into Sydney’s cultural fabric. Key facilities added over time include the caretaker’s residence, now set to be repurposed.

writers residency
Photo Credit: Waverley Library

Caretaker’s Cottage to Accommodate Writers

The site’s caretaker’s cottage will soon be converted into a workspace and temporary residence for writers. The program will host three writers at a time, each staying for a five-month period. Accommodation will feature private rooms equipped for reading, research and drafting.

Applicants will be selected through an expression of interest process. Initially, eligibility will focus on individuals with a clear connection to the local area, with future rounds potentially open to international applicants.

Literary Concept Moves Forward

The proposal was submitted by a local literary figure familiar with the site’s environment. After formal consideration, local authorities approved the plan without opposition. The cottage will be renamed in recognition of Henry Lawson, one of the cemetery’s most well-known interred figures.

Waverley authorities
Photo Credit: Waverley Library

Creative Use of Community Assets

This initiative is part of a broader effort to activate heritage spaces for community and cultural use. It complements other creative precincts in the area and supports long-term strategies aimed at expanding arts infrastructure.

Separately, nearby Bronte House—another local heritage property—will be open to the public from next year, following strong community interest in increased accessibility.

Program Timeline and Implementation

Read: Plan for Crisis Housing in Waverley to Support Domestic Violence Survivors

The writers’ residency will commence following the completion of the application and preparation phases. The first group of writers is expected to take up residence in 2026.

Published 21-July-2025

Waverley Cemetery Waives Fee for Centenarian Who Outlives Burial Plot Contract

A 102-year-old Sydney woman has outlived her 25-year burial plot contract at Waverley Cemetery, sparking a review of cemetery policies for long-lived residents.

Read: Park’Npay Expands to Waverley

The incident occurred earlier this year when Dorothy Jackson, who purchased her plot at 77, was informed that her contract had expired. She was initially asked to pay $6,000 to extend the contract for another five years.

Unexpected Longevity Challenges Cemetery Policy

Ms Jackson’s daughter, Ann Cooper, expressed surprise at the situation. She stated that her mother had not expected to live beyond the contract’s term when she initially purchased the plot.

Waverley Cemetery, located in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, is home to over 100,000 burials, including those of notable Australians. The cemetery is facing space constraints, which has led to the implementation of renewable interment rights.

After being contacted about the issue, Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos announced that the council would waive the extension fee for Ms Jackson. Ms Masselos acknowledged that this case highlighted the need to review cemetery policies, especially considering the increasing number of people living to advanced ages.

Ms Masselos explained that these rights help ensure that burial sites are actively used and not forgotten. The cemetery has also introduced niche walls for urns, which already have a waiting list.

Waverley Cemetery
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Broader Cemetery Management Challenges

Ben Kelly, CEO of the Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association, noted that unused burial plots are a common issue in cemeteries across the country. He stated that many families are unaware they own plots, leading to inefficient use of cemetery land.

Read: Waverley War Memorial And The Generosity Of The Vickery Family

Kelly suggested that fixed-term contracts for burial plots are one way to manage limited cemetery space effectively. He advised plot owners to check their contract terms and contact the cemetery if a term is nearing expiration.

Published 26-Aug-2024