Media Release - Service Brings Closure for Families
Service Brings Closure for Families Following Cemetery Plaque Reinstatement
A commemoration service held at Quorn Cemetery on 10 September 2026 has marked the completion of the reinstatement of 101 plaques stolen from the Charlie Hill Gardens and wider Quorn Cemetery earlier this year.
The plaques were stolen in early March in what Flinders Ranges Council described as a “disgusting act of vandalism”, causing significant distress to families and the wider community.
Following the theft, Flinders Ranges Council staff worked diligently to identify the affected plaques, locate and contact next of kin, and establish the details required for their replacement.
Council liaised with the State Government who ultimately fully funded the replacement of all 101 stolen plaques, providing significant relief to Council and affected families by removing what could otherwise have been a substantial financial and emotional burden.
Flinders Ranges Council Mayor Ken Anderson said the completion of the project was an important moment for the families and the entire community. “This has been an incredibly difficult and upsetting experience for the families whose loved ones’ plaques were stolen, and for our wider community,” Mayor Anderson said.
“The theft of these plaques was a disgusting act of vandalism. These plaques represent people’s loved ones, their memories and their place within our community, and their loss caused genuine hurt and distress.”
Mayor Anderson said the commemoration service provided an opportunity to acknowledge the impact of the theft while marking the completion of the reinstatement project. “The reinstatement of the plaques is an important step towards closure. While we can never undo what happened, we can ensure these memorials are restored and that the families know their community stands with them,” he said.
“We are extremely grateful to the State Government for fully funding the replacement plaques. This decision has lessened both the financial and emotional burden on Council and, importantly, on the families involved.”
The service included prayers and blessings from representatives of all local church denominations, providing an opportunity for reflection, remembrance and healing.
Mayor Anderson also acknowledged the patience and understanding shown by affected families and the broader community throughout what has been a lengthy and complex process. “Council staff have worked incredibly hard over many months to identify every affected plaque, establish the necessary details and contact next of kin. This has been a significant undertaking, and I want to sincerely thank our staff for their dedication,” Mayor Anderson said.
“Most importantly, I want to thank the families and the community for their patience, understanding and support throughout this process. We know how important these memorials are, and we appreciate everyone’s understanding while Council worked to get this right.”
The commemoration service brought together families, community members, Council representatives and local church leaders to mark the completion of the reinstatement works and provide an opportunity for the community to come together. “The service was about remembering those who are commemorated at Quorn Cemetery, supporting their families and drawing a line under a very difficult chapter,” Mayor Anderson said.
“We hope the reinstatement of these plaques, together with the service and blessings, provides some comfort and a sense of closure for all those affected.”