From memorial benches overlooking the ocean to plaques honouring local identities, Byron’s commemorative tributes could face regular review under a proposed Council policy.
The draft Memorials and Plaques in Open Spaces Policy, which is currently on public exhibition, sets out how future requests for memorials on Council-managed land would be assessed and maintained.
Among its provisions is a requirement that all memorials be reviewed after 15 years, with Council able to retain, relocate or remove them depending on their significance, condition and the future use of the site.
The policy says the review process is intended to balance the community’s desire to commemorate people and events with the need to ensure parks and other public spaces do not become cluttered over time.
‘It is recognised that with time a particular location may become saturated with plaques and memorials,’ the policy states, adding that in such cases ‘it would be appropriate to consider strict limitations or a moratorium of future installations at a particular location or area.’
The draft policy also proposes that no new memorials or plaques be approved for Main Beach parklands, including Apex Park, Dening Park and Clarkes Beach, until a broader foreshore Plan of Management and Master Plan has been adopted.
A significant connection to the Byron Shire
Anyone seeking to install a memorial would need to demonstrate the person, group or event has a significant connection to the Byron Shire and the proposed location, while also providing evidence of community support.
The policy retains several existing restrictions, including prohibiting memorials for domestic pets on public land, preventing plaques from being attached to living trees, and ruling out memorials with religious or political affiliations.
It also makes clear that memorials are not necessarily permanent, stating: ‘Byron Shire Council does not guarantee to retain a memorial after a period of 15 years.’ Instead, memorials may ultimately be ‘retained, relocated, and/or removed’ following a review of their significance and physical condition. Council says the policy is intended to provide a consistent and transparent framework for memorials while preserving the character and amenity of the Shire’s public open spaces.
The draft policy is on public exhibition, with submissions invited before it returns to Council for consideration.
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