Celebrating Biodiversity at SMCT

September marks Biodiversity Month in Australia, a national initiative led by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the EnvironmentExternal site to raise awareness about the importance of protecting and enhancing biodiversity across our landscapes.

At Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT), we proudly support this mission. Across our memorial parks, including Springvale Botanical Cemetery and Bunurong Memorial Park,we steward thousands of native and exotic species, creating vibrant ecosystems that support both remembrance and regeneration.

What Is Biodiversity Month?

Biodiversity Month Australia is held every September to promote the conservation of Australia’s unique flora and fauna. It’s a time to reflect on how we can protect the ecosystems that sustain life—from native bushland to urban green spaces.

At SMCT, we believe cemeteries can be more than places of remembrance—they can be living landscapes that nurture biodiversity and connect communities to nature.

Native Trees and Their Role in Biodiversity

Our grounds are home to a wide variety of native Australian trees, including:

• Eucalyptus torquata (Coral Gum) – A flowering tree native to Western Australia, known for its nectar-rich blooms that support local bee populations.
• Ornamental plum and almond trees – Among the first to blossom after winter, symbolising renewal and seasonal change.
• Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Red River Gum) – Some of our trees are over 200 years old, providing nesting hollows for birds and shelter for lizards, spiders, and other native wildlife.

“Old trees and stumps are vital habitats,” says Chris, SMCT’s Head Arborist. “They support entire ecosystems and offer protection from predators.”

Supporting Wildlife and Pollinators

By planting indigenous species and preserving naturally occurring hollows, we create safe havens for native birds, insects, and small mammals. Our arborists actively manage tree health while encouraging biodiversity through habitat conservation.

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts often visit our memorial parks to observe the rich variety of species supported by our trees and gardens.

Sustainable Water Management

At Bunurong Memorial Park, sustainability is at the heart of our operations:

• Organic waste is recycled on-site and reused in garden beds.
• Rainwater tanks and catchment dams help us manage water responsibly.
• Our Water Quality Management Plan with Melbourne Water includes gross pollution traps, ensuring clean runoff into local waterways.
• All amenities and taps use potable water, supporting both environmental and public health standards.

Trees: Nature’s Guardians

Trees do more than beautify our landscapes—they actively protect the environment:

• They cool the air through evaporation.
• They absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen.
• They communicate with each other to defend against pests, using chemical signals like phenolics.

Sadly, over 7.5 million trees are cut down annually to produce disposable coffee cups. At SMCT, we advocate for tree conservation and encourage sustainable choices.

A Shared Commitment to Conservation

We thank our community for helping us maintain the natural beauty of our memorial parks. Every visit, every moment of reflection, contributes to a shared effort to protect and celebrate biodiversity.

Whether you're walking beneath the canopy of a 200-year-old gum or admiring the first blossoms of spring, you're part of a living legacy that honours both people and planet.