Carlyle Cemetery, one of Indigo Shire's most historic cemeteries is entering the digital age.
Families seeking to locate their loved ones within the cemetery can now do so through an interactive online map, recently launched by Council and accessible via its website.
The map mirrors the physical cemetery layout, enabling users to navigate through interments (blue), reservations (yellow), unidentified plots (grey), and vacant plots (green).
Acting CEO Sally Rice says as cemetery trustees, Council recognises the important role it plays in preserving the cemetery and its connections to past and future generations, and that the new mapping system will greatly enhance this.
"Carlyle Cemetery is the final resting place for many people who have called Rutherglen and Wahgunyah home, and through this software, we're able to ensure that our burial records, both historic and current, are captured accurately," Ms Rice says.
Similarly, Ms Rice says that the improved accessibility provided by the interactive map means that people seeking loved ones, or researching the history of the region, can do so conveniently from their mobile device, desktop computer or tablet.
"We know what an emotional journey searching for our ancestors can be, so through this mapping tool, we're aiming to make that process as easy as possible. We also know that we have a community that really values its heritage and wants to honour those buried at Carlyle appropriately and again through the Chronicle software, we can help make this happen." Ms Rice says.
Individuals can make submissions to add to the official stories of the cemetery. While a number of historical profiles have already been developed, and can be discovered via the map, through this feature Council can further honour the rich history of the region and ensure that future generations can connect with their heritage.
Families can also create meaningful online memorials for a small fee, by sharing photos and stories of their loved ones to forge ongoing connection to their lives and legacy. These "Life Chronicle" stories will be featured with other significant graves and highlighted in aqua on the map, while historical profiles feature a yellow symbol.
Ms Rice is encouraging families and historians to explore the map, to share their stories and contribute to the evolving story of Carlyle Cemetery.
To access Chronicle, click here: Carlyle Cemetery (chronicle.rip)
