Wait, dressing the what?
“Dressing the Graves” might sound a bit strange and like something out of a horror film, but don’t let the name fool you. It’s actually one of the most heartfelt and meaningful ceremonies of the Kernewek Lowender, the Copper Coast’s beloved Cornish Festival, happening next year from May 12 to 18.
Every two years, the Copper Coast—encompassing Moonta, Kadina, and Wallaroo—celebrates its Cornish heritage. At its core, the festival shines a light on the people who helped shape the community. “Dressing the Graves” offers a unique chance to honour ancestors who lived, worked, and contributed to these towns.
How does it work?
Family members, history buffs or locals can nominate an ancestor buried in one of the four cemeteries—Greens Plains, Kadina, Moonta, or Wallaroo. During the ceremony, a brief biography of their life is shared, highlighting their contributions to the community. Then, flowers prepared by local school kids, are placed on the grave by a relative or descendant. It’s a touching way to look back on the personal stories that make up the history of the Copper Coast
Celebrating the unsung heroes
It’s not just about the well-known figures in the community either, but also the everyday people—farmers, miners, shopkeepers, and service members. Everyone has a story, and together, these stories form the fabric of today’s Copper Coast.
Nominations now open
This year, the festival is seeking nominations to help honour more of these stories. Whether your ancestor lived through significant events like the typhoid outbreak, or simply played a meaningful role in town life, every contribution is worth remembering. With the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII next year, organisers are hoping to highlight the stories of local service people too.
If you’d like to jump on board, nominations are open until mid-November. You can submit your stories directly to [email protected], or reach out to Sue who will happily assist you with the process. And as a tribute, the stories of those honoured will also be published in a book, preserving their legacy for future generations.
For more information about Kernewek Lowender and Dressing the Graves, click here.
‘Townships are built of bricks, mortar, parks and roads. Communities are built from the people who have lived there’
