Metropolitan Cemeteries Board

This morning, we were proud to launch the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board’s Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan 2026-2027 (RAP) at the Aboriginal Keeping Place at Karrakatta Cemetery.

The Keeping Place is a nationally significant site, the first of its kind in Australia, providing a culturally appropriate resting place for ancestral remains awaiting repatriation to Country. It stands as a powerful symbol of dignity, respect, and cultural healing, making it a deeply fitting location to mark this important milestone.

We were honoured to begin the morning with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Noongar cultural practitioner Troy Collard, and to hear from Dianne Ryder, a decorated war veteran and proud Whadjuk Noongar woman. Their contributions grounded the event in culture, respect, and connection to Country.

Launching our second RAP during National Reconciliation Week is a significant step forward. It reinforces our commitment to strengthening relationships, deepening cultural understanding, and creating meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

At MCB, we recognise that the land on which our cemeteries stand are First Nations lands. Our role as custodians of places of deep cultural, historical, and spiritual significance carries with it an important responsibility, to ensure these spaces are inclusive, respectful, and culturally safe for all communities.

This RAP is more than a document, it is a commitment to action, accountability, and genuine partnership. It will guide how we:

✔ Build stronger, respectful relationships

✔ Increase cultural awareness and understanding

✔ Create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Thank you to our distinguished guests, community members, MCB staff, and all those who contributed to bringing this launch together.

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey and one that requires listening, learning, and walking together with humility and respect. We are proud to continue this journey and the positive impact it will have across the communities we serve.

You can read more in our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan 2026-2027 in the link below.

https://www.wa.gov.au/government/publications/reflect-reconciliation-action-plan-2026-2027-metropolitan-cemeteries-board

As part of the natural environment, snakes can be active in some of our cemeteries at certain times of the year. Recently, juvenile snakes have been spotted at Rockingham Regional Memorial Park, and visitors are asked to take care while moving through the grounds.

If you do happen to see a snake, there’s no need to be alarmed, but please do not approach it. Snakes will move on in their own time if left undisturbed.

We encourage everyone to stay aware of their surroundings, keep to pathways where possible, and enjoy their visit safely. If you have any concerns, please contact the administration office, who will be happy to assist.

Thank you for helping us look after both our community and local wildlife.

Today is International Women’s Day!

A day where we celebrate the achievements, stories, and lasting legacies of the incredible women who have shaped Western Australia.

Many extraordinary women rest within our grounds; trailblazers, innovators, caregivers, leaders, and community champions who helped build the WA we know today.

One way to discover these stories is through the Walking with WA Women historical trail at Karrakatta Cemetery. This self-guided walk introduces visitors to some remarkable Western Australian women whose contributions continue to resonate across generations. It’s a meaningful way to connect with our State’s history and reflect on the impact of women in shaping our communities.

This International Women’s Day, we encourage you to explore their stories, reflect on their achievements, and celebrate the continued strength and contributions of women in our communities today.

You can collect a map of the trail from the administration office at Karrakatta Cemetery or visit our website for more information https://bit.ly/4rXmNxk

Today, Australia marks a National Day of Mourning to honour the victims of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack and all those impacted by this tragic event.

At the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board, we pause to reflect on the profound loss felt across the country, including the deep grief within the Jewish community. We also acknowledge our long-standing and close relationship with the Chevra Kadisha (Perth Jewish Burial Society) and the Perth Jewish community, a relationship that has been part of our history for more than a century.

In moments like these, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, connection and care. Our thoughts are with the families, friends and communities who are mourning, and with all those who may be feeling the effects of this tragedy.

Community members who wish to share messages of sympathy can do so through the Bondi Beach online condolence book.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/premiers-department/about-us/bondi-beach-condolence-book