Hello all, I am new to this list, having joined only a couple days ago. I have been researching my family history for several years now, and in my never-ending search for information am a member of several lists. I am reading with interest letters sent by others to Ms Pike. Below is a copy of the email I sent her, for those of you who may be interested. Regards, Lesley Wilson. and my letter.... Ms Bronwyn Pike. re: Cemeteries Park Plan Melbourne Herald Sun, September 4, 2003 It upsets me greatly to think that this proposal has even been suggested. Cemeteries were described as "ageing and unused". Correct me if I am wrong, but they ARE being used! - by our ancestors. As an ordinary Australian tracing my family tree, I have spent, currently do spend, and will in the future spend many, many hours visiting and looking through old, (quote) "ageing and unused" (unquote) cemeteries. These places are sacred ground, and an invaluable, tangible link with our past. They MUST NOT be turned into parkland! Wading my way through files and records looking for my ancestor's name is no substitute for wading my way through overgrown grass looking for my ancestor's final resting place. Bronwyn, I do not expect you to understand the feeling and emotion of standing at an ancestors grave, but let me tell you, the years that separate my ancestor and myself vanish. Perhaps you have no interest or pride in Australia's history, but I and countless others do. So much of our heritage has already been destroyed and is now gone from us for good. It can never be replaced. Files and records do not replace it. Photographs - as valuable as they are - do not replace it. Reading something on a piece of paper cannot compare to seeing it, feeling it, BEING THERE. The blood and sweat of our ancestors deserves our respect. If THEY had not gone ahead of us, WE would not be here to follow. Do you know your Australian history Bronwyn? Have you any idea how rough our pioneers had it? What strong, resilient, brave people they were. Keep the Cemeteries. Do not turn them into parklands. Cemeteries all across Victoria, (and Australia) SHOULD be kept. MUST be kept. For they are priceless. Most sincerely, Lesley Wilson. _________________________________________________________________ Chat via SMS. Simply send 'CHAT' to 1889918. More info at http://ninemsn.com.au/mobilemania/MoChat.asp?blipid=6800