In an area renowned for its history, this little-known location must stand out as being one of the more important places
It's not even known to many of the locals, but this spot is one of the original cemeteries in Port Fairy, and contains the graves of the original pioneers. About 200 people were interred here between 1849 and 1860, but there is little left of this very significant place due to the shifting sand dunes and overgrowing marram grass.
Dugcholi found out about this spot over 30 years ago from an old sea-dog, and we found it back in the early 90s after a long search. At least we know how Mahogany Ship searchers must have felt!
Nowadays there is a signboard atop the dunes that is visible from quite a distance, so it's not so difficult to find.
Getting there: Private property surrounds this area, so the best approach (that we know of) is via the beach. Park at S38 23.634 E142 12.904 and make your way along the beach. The signboard is at S38 23.599 E142 12.154, and the cache is nearby. Round trip will take a little over an hour to complete.
Have a look around while in the area and see how many graves you can find. Chances are you will be walking right over them, but they'll be far underfoot (further than 6' anyway) by now. We counted just three graves left in the area, and parts of the original stone fence that aren't quite under the sand yet.
This area is very overgrown, so be very cautious of lurking snakes in the warmer months.
*** NOTE: At certain times of the year, this area may be home to endangered hooded plovers - due to this (and the risk of snakebite), DON'T BRING THE DOG!
*** FTF honours go to: Kia1 ***