Genealogy on Sydney’s northern beaches just got easier – thanks to Pittwater Council’s new online search tool for its cemetery at Mona Vale.
The search tool was launched about three months ago and is capable of scanning all 7803 graves at the cemetery, which is open to all faiths and denominations.
The online tool works on a keyword search facility, searchable by date of death, date of burial or the deceased’s name.
What makes the Pittwater search tool somewhat unique is the ability to get an image and map of the grave and its location, plus a link to any other family members buried in the grave.
The map marker is generated by the Council’s MapInfo system and linked to other information via its ECM database.
Pittwater Urban & Environmental Director Chris Hunt said the search tool was proving popular with sleuths in search of more information about their family history, but the Council had another reason for its introduction.
"In common with many other urban councils, our cemetery has very little space left for burials, with over 95 per cent of graves occupied.
This tool will allow the public to track their deceased family members and tell us whether they wish to be buried in the same grave." he said.
To access the Pittwater cemetery’s online search tool visit www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/cemetery_search.
