Angel Close

Forster's historic Angel Close Cemetery is an important (but little known) historic burial site.

Thought to be the first cemetery in Forster, historic records cannot determine exactly when Angel Close Cemetery was first established, but the oldest headstone found is that of Joseph Tolhurst who died in 1880. The burial ground was gazetted in 1893 for the 'preservation of graves' and was closed for use. At some stage, a few of the headstones were transferred to the current Forster General Cemetery site and the Angel Close Cemetery was then rather neglected over the years.

The actual number of burials in the Angel Close Heritage Cemetery is unknown, however there is evidence that there were at least seven burials, that of the Miles infant sisters Annie & Mary, Joseph and Ada Tolhurst, Captain John Penenton, Alfred Basham and Jane Middlemiss. These burials date from 1880 through to 1892. Captain John Penenton was Forster's first harbour master and his grave is listed as of exceptional heritage value in the 'Conservation Management Plan' held by Council.

Great Lakes Council has recently undertaken conservation work in the cemetery to acknowledge and preserve its cultural significance regarding burials of the early settlers of Forster and Tuncurry.

Other Sites If you have any knowledge of any other, little or generally unknown historic cemteries that may be located anywhere throughout the Great Lakes region, either on public or private property, please contact us - we always want to know more! Council staff members are currently researching the historic Willow Point Cemetery at Failford, and the Carrington Cemetery for inclusion on this website.