Community support needed to repair Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery Vandalism

August 9, 2024 we witnessed heartbreaking incident at the Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery, where 143 headstones and graves were vandalized. This sorry act not only damaged property but also disrupted the peace and respect that should be upheld in such a sacred place.

In response to this unfortunate event, the Headstone Healing Project has been formed to address the damage done and restore the affected headstones and graves. The project aims to raise funds amounting to AUD$500,000 to cover the costs of repairing and restoring the vandalised memorials. The importance of cemeteries as more than just resting places for the departed cannot be understated. They serve as repositories of history and heritage, preserving the memory of those who came before us. By engaging in the repair and restoration of these headstones, we not only honour the memories of those laid to rest but also uphold the significance of these cemeteries as integral parts of our community's identity. To achieve its goals, the Headstone Healing Project is reaching out to the community for support. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a difference in the restoration efforts. In addition to monetary support, the project also aims to increase community engagement and awareness about the importance of preserving and respecting our cemeteries. Collaborations with organizations such as RSL Toowoomba Sub-Branch, Family History Society of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, Cemetery Tours Toowoomba, and JH Wagner and Sons Stonemasons have been established to ensure the success of this project. Together, we can work towards healing the damage caused by this sorry act of vandalism and reaffirm our commitment to honouring the memories of those who have passed. Let us stand together as a community to support the Headstone Healing Project and preserve the history and heritage that lies within the Drayton and Toowoomba Cemetery. Your support is invaluable in ensuring that these sacred spaces remain places of reverence and remembrance for generations to come.