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More than 100 copper plaques have been stolen from Tweed Heads Lawn and General Cemetery at Kirkwood Street.
The plaques, with an estimated replacement value of between $30,000 to $40,000, were discovered missing from the northern end of the cemetery by a groundsman early yesterday morning (Tuesday 20 August).
Council is working with police who will review nearby CCTV footage in their investigations.
It is believed the plaques may have been stolen to resell as scrap metal, with all local metal recyclers notified of the incident and placed on alert. At a weight of approximately 1.5 kg each, the combined plaques are estimated to be worth a maximum of $1,500 on the scrap metal market.
Council’s Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Naomi Searle said staff were devastated at the discovery and were working to identify which plaques had been stolen.
“We are appalled at the theft of these plaques and will be working closely with police on the matter,” Ms Searle said.
“My heart goes out to the families of those who’s resting places have been affected. Every effort is being made to identify which plaques have been stolen.”
A list of the missing burial plaques will be available on Council’s website as soon as possible.
A similar incident occurred in July 2021 when 48 plaques were stolen from headstones at Murwillumbah Lawn Cemetery at Tree Street and then a further nine were discovered missing from Tweed Valley Cemetery at Eviron Road.
Council is urging anyone with information to come forward and contact local police.
Anyone who is concerned about a loved one’s plaque can contact Council on 02 6670 2400 or email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au
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