Devonport City Council is seeking community input on management priorities of the historically significant Congregational Cemetery at Don.  

Considered to be one of the oldest congregational cemeteries in Tasmania, there are more than 700 known recorded burials and several unmarked sites, with the first recorded burial on 17 October 1865 of Elizabeth June and Jane Hodgkiss.  

Devonport Mayor, Councillor Annette Rockliff said community input will help guide the development of a 10-year master plan for the Tasmania Heritage listed site. 

Mayor Rockliff said many of the original pioneers of the City of Devonport and its surrounding district are buried at the cemetery. 

“The cemetery occupies one acre of land, granted by James Fenton in 1864 and contains many headstones and graves of local significance,” Mayor Rockliff said. 

“For example, members of the Henry family, including John Henry CMG, member of Parliament, member of the Australian Federal Convention which framed the Australian Constitution; Henry Carter, a prominent Devonport pioneer and landowner; Senator Alexander Lillico; and Stephen Priest, a prolific builder, in Devonport’s early history. 

“Council understands the importance of the cemetery as a place providing the community with a connection to our history, culture and society. 

“I encourage cemetery visitors and interested community members to complete our short three-minute survey to help Council plan for the best way to preserve the heritage values of the site while addressing the practical day-to-day needs of visitors.”    

The Congregational Cemetery survey closes at 9 a.m. on Monday, 1 March 2021 and can be completed online through Speak Up Devonport via Council’s website. 
A hard copy is also available at Council reception or by contacting Council at [email protected] or calling 03 6424 0511.