It鈥檚 time for the St. Andrew鈥檚 Cemetery spring cleaning project.

At this time of year, the community rallies to combat the encroachment of nature at their pioneer cemetery. St. Andrew鈥檚 provides a tranquil final resting place for early settlers and military personnel, boasting woodland meadows and cherished Gary oaks. Preserving this natural ambiance necessitates the ongoing battle against weeds and invasive species, ensuring the graves remain visible and respected.

Community members, particularly descendants of pioneers and military personnel, are encouraged to join the annual spring cleanup at St. Andrew鈥檚 Cemetery on Saturday, March 23, from 9 a.m. until noon. This year鈥檚 focus will be on cleaning headstones, so attendees should come equipped with buckets, gloves, and plastic bristle brushes.

Those interested in ongoing maintenance and preservation can explore the 鈥淎dopt a Plot Program,鈥� allowing individuals or groups to commit to caring for a specific area within the cemetery. For more details, contact St. John the Divine Church at 250-334-4331, email admin@sjtdcourtenay.ca, or visit sjtdcourtenay.ca.

Located behind St. Andrew鈥檚 Anglican Church at the intersection of N. Island Hwy and Dingwall Road, the cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of the community鈥檚 history and heritage.