Douglas Shire Council has come under fire after claims that it removed solar lights installed by family members of loved ones buried at Mossman Cemetery.

The relatives who supplied and placed the lights near grave sites told us that Council employees removed the lights “without consultation”, and that they were told the lights were a trip hazard – but Mayor Michael Kerr has disputed this.

In a handwritten note on a public notice board in the Daintree area, a complainant said, “Mayor, Michael Kerr in his infinite bloody wisdom has banned ALL solar lights in our cemetery even if they are not in the way of mowers.”

NP: Why have the solar lights been removed?

MK: “Council’s main concern with solar lights is that they impeded mowing operations as they are mostly spiked into the lawn beam. They also contain glass which poses safety risks to our operators and cemetery visitors. Complaints were also received by other community members who felt it disrespectful to their family member.”

NP: Were members of the community who'd placed the solar lights consulted?

MK: “Council staff have gone above and beyond to contact many family members directly regarding the removal of unsuitable tributes. The personal contact between our staff and the families was well received.”

NP: Did Council receive complaints from the public about the lights? If so, how many and of what nature?

MK: “We’ve had numerous complaints from other community members who do not want the lights on their loved one’s grave.”

NP: One Newsport reader said the lights were not in the way of mowers. Do you have any comment on this?

MK: “This is incorrect in total there were 425 solar lights.”

NP: Would you agree that removing the lights is insensitive to the feelings and wishes of relatives and loved ones of those buried at Mossman Cemetery?

MK: “This is a sensitive issue and that is why staff have contacted family members about the decision to remove unsuitable tributes.

“Council wants the cemetery to be a place where everyone can pay respect to their loved one in a peaceful and safe environment. To achieve this environment there are rules in place.

“Council’s ‘Adornment of Graves General Policy’ states:

“The placement of glass vases or receptacles, ornaments, flags, photo frames, candles, toys, wind chimes or other items of memorabilia in standard burial or memorial areas is not permitted and any such items will be removed, at Council’s discretion. These items can be a safety hazard for visitors and cemetery staff and present difficulties in efficiently maintaining the cemeteries.”

NP: Readers say they have paid for the grave sites but are being 'dictated to' by the Mayor about how they should (or shouldn't) honour their loved ones, who they sorely miss. What comment does the Mayor have about this?

“Council understands grave sites are special place for families to remember and reflect on family members that have passed. However there is a responsibility for Council to provide a safe environment both visitors and for the staff who maintain the site.”