150 years of Little Billabong Cemetery to be celebrated in February

The historic Little Billabong Cemetery, formerly known as Lunt's Vale, was dedicated in February 1873 and will be celebrating its 150th anniversary next month.

History buff Cheryl Crighton will compile a booklet covering the history of the cemetery as a tribute to those laid to rest in unmarked graves, after completing a similar project for the Cookardinia Cemetery in 2013.

"With the cemetery in the median strip, it does unfortunately hinder the availability for its maintenance and upkeep," she said.

"With the vast number of unmarked graves it is extremely difficult for descendants to pay their respects, but the well worn track on the median strip indicates that people do care and do make the journey.

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"Hopefully celebrating the 150th anniversary since dedication will bring more awareness to the cemetery."

The anniversary will be celebrated with a gathering at the cemetery and a 'meet and greet' at the Little Billabong Hall.

Ms Crighton said she was collaborating with the community, Greater Hume Council and Transport NSW to install signs at the cemetery.

"So often things are overlooked, and now, with modern technology and the availability of digitalised newspaper records, research can be undertaken to try and preserve our history," she said.

"Every one of the known burials should be remembered along with the contribution that they made to the district of Little Billabong.

"The cemetery is evidence of a by-gone era."

Anyone with knowledge of those thought to be buried at the cemetery can contact Ms Crighton by emailing cherylcrighton@bigpond.com.

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