During some extremes of weather in late January 2018, the Springthorpe Memorial
sustained some damage, due to fast and extreme temperature changes having an adverse
impact on the marble.
CURRENT CONSERVATION WORKS ON THE MEMORIAL
Commissioned by Boroondara Cemetery Trust, as part of a successful Heritage Victoria’s
Living Heritage Grant, conservation are being carried out to the Betram Mackennal statuary
group and the Auguste Fischer leadlight roof of Springthorpe Memorial (Victorian Heritage
Register # H0522).
The conservation works will include the cleaning, consolidation, re-attachment of fallen
elements and application of protective coating onto the Bertram Mackennal statuary group.
The leadlight cement will be repaired and replaced along with the repair of deformed calmes.
Broken and missing glass will be replaced and rust will be removed from metal frames. A
polycarbonate protective roof will be installed as well.
These works will serve to reverse the recent and ongoing deterioration of the statues and
provide greater protection to the roof and statuary below, providing a positive heritage
outcome for this highly significant place. In addition, the works will prevent ongoing
environmental damage that has contributed to the deterioration of the statuary and roof.
PUBLIC DONATIONS WELCOME
The Boroondara Cemetery Trust’s primary responsibility under the Act, which governs the
operations of cemeteries, is to see to the perpetual maintenance of the entire cemetery so it
is unable to expend its own funds on the repair or maintenance of substantial private
memorials such as the Springthorpe Memorial.
Although we have received a grant of $200,000 to commence the above mentioned works on
this memorial, it is estimated to cost up to $500,000 to complete the restoration works to the
statuary and surrounding garden area. Please contact our office on 9853 7025 or see the
attached link for further information on providing a donation to continue the conservation of
this significant heritage listed memorial.
