Yes and no. This is a fragile archaeological heritage site so we do not permit the burial of ashes. The scattering of ashes is a great way to continue family connections. A time for an intimate family ceremony can be booked by appointment. To do so please contact the National Trust on 9321 6088 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
As it is a consecrated Anglican Church all weddings and funerals must be performed by an Anglican priest and follow an Anglican order of service.
Please contact your local Anglican priest for further advice and assistance.
Then please contact the National Trust to discuss hire fees and availability on 9321 6088 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
St Bartholomew’s Church is readily accessible and there are two sealed paths that intersect the site. Overall the grounds are very sandy and not well suited to wheelchair access. There is a toilet suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
There are both historic and practical reasons for this. See the “Reading the Landscape” tab on this website for the historical context.
As for the practical reasons it comes down to cost and conservation. Covering an area over 4 hectares the Cemeteries are costly to mow as it's slow work mowing in between the graves. Line trimmers cannot be used as the line causes irreversible damage to the monuments.
The high salt content in weed-killing chemicals is highly damaging to the delicate grave furniture (and not the best for people either) so weeds are not sprayed. This approach also helps maintain the biodiversity within the Cemeteries which is rare in the city.
A dedicated team of volunteers is continually hand weeding to help ensure the grave markers will not be damaged by chemicals or mechanical means. More volunteers are always needed to help with the grounds maintenance so please contact the National Trust if you would like to join the team. You can help make a difference.