Community & Business
18 October, 2025
Marking graves focus of project
HUNDREDS of hours of dedicated research, multiple cemetery visits and cross-referencing an array of resources has identified the first list of 150 names of persons who are laid to rest in unmarked graves within the Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery.
Volunteer and co-ordinator of the project Michael Musumeci said the first list was a great step forward for honouring those who went before us.
“Our aim is to identify as many unmarked graves as possible, and to work closely with Mareeba Shire Council which has approved these graves to be provided with a temporary paver and lasered plaque,” he said.
“This will then be able to identify previously unmarked graves with names, dates of birth and dates of death, as well as plot numbers.”
The Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery Volunteer Project has also painted more than 1200 graves and is now proceeding to the next step of identification.
“Many families from all over the country and abroad have made contact in the hope that graves can be found,” Mr Musumeci said.
“We have found more successes than failures with many of these graves now being identified.
“What is lacking though, are the necessary funds to cover the costs of the pavers and the stainless-steel plaques to ensure the details remain.
“What we are hoping is that many people will make donations to achieve this so we can continue this vital work in identifying as many unmarked graves as possible.”
Donations will go towards stainless-steel sheeting for the plaques and the pavers, while volunteers will continue to not only paint, but now also install the pavers and plaques within the Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery.
Donations can be made to:
Westpac Bank, Pioneer Cemetery, M Musumeci, BSB 734-197, Account 632724
