Genesis Project
Remediation works | Genesis Lake and surrounds
As part of continuous monitoring and maintenance of our grounds, Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT) has noted areas at Bunurong Memorial Park that will require essential works to ensure we can continue to maintain a respectful and beautiful resting place for our families.
We understand the importance of honouring and celebrating the life of a loved one, and thank our families and communities for their patience and understanding during this time.
Please refer to this web page for the most up to date information on the progress of this project.
Should you have any further queries regarding these essential and temporary works, please contact the SMCT Customer Support Team on (03) 9788 9488 or via email at bmp.enquiries@smct.org.au.
Please note: The precise commencement of remediation works is dependent on weather and grounds conditions, however rest assured we will keep you informed of progress at every step of the way.
Lake edge remediation works: anticipated from August to December 2023
Update: early works completion - November 2023
All works to remediate the Genesis Lake area are now complete, with unrestricted access to the area for families. Thank you to all our families for your patience and understanding throughout these works.
Weather and other conditions have significantly affected the grounds around the Genesis Lake area at Bunurong Memorial Park. In some places, conditions have affected the lake edge and had the potential to damage memorials or other infrastructure.
To ensure we can continue to maintain a respectful and beautiful resting place for our families, SMCT undertook major essential works to remediate the Genesis Lake area.
Progress of works: November update
We are pleased to inform you that our team has concluded the restoration works at Genesis Lake ahead of our initial timeline. As you know, SMCT has been undertaking essential restoration works around Gensis Lake to improve the safety and sustainability of this space.
Families now have unrestricted access to the entire Genesis Lake area, including nearby memorials.
Any memorials temporarily relocated due to safety concerns during the works, have been thoughtfully and respectfully returned with the support of families.
Our foremost priority has always been to provide a safe and peaceful space for visitors to honour and celebrate the lives of their loved ones. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by our essential works and appreciate the understanding and patience you have shown during this time.
Progress of works: September update
Lowered temporary fencing has been installed to ensure a safe working environment for this next crucial phase of works.
Construction noise and traffic impacts will be minimised where possible, however some parking restrictions and traffic management will also be in place throughout the works period.
The lake will be drained to provide clear access to the lake edge for works. Invasive species will be removed as part of this process, and any native species safely relocated.
The temporary fencing follows the lake edge pathway, effectively closing the area bordering Genesis Lake. However, memorials inside the works area are still visible to families visiting the area.
We apologise for the impact this next phase of work may have on families, and encourage you to contact us prior to your next visit to understand any access restrictions and how we may be able to support you.
If you are a Holder of Right in this area and have changed your contact details, please call our SMCT Customer Support Team on (03) 9788 9488 or email bmp.enquiries@smct.org.au to let us know.
Thank you for your patience and understanding at this time as we work to remediate this beautiful area of our grounds.
Progress of works: August update
Works to date have included lowering the level of the lake and removing some trees and bushes in the vicinity.
A small number of memorial positions have been temporarily relocated as a precaution for safekeeping, and impacted families (Holders of Rights) have been contacted directly where possible.
Any mementos temporarily moved as part of the relocation of memorials are available for collection from Bunurong Memorial Park reception.
Broader works have commenced, with contractors on site to construct safety fencing.
Public notice of works
- Public notice: Genesis Lake Remediation (30 June).