The KEMH Memorial Rose Garden, located on the corner of Barker and Railway Roads in Subiaco, is a unique venue, founded in 1989 in recognition of the impact of pregnancy and infant loss. It now provides a repository for the ashes of more than 40,000 babies plus a place of recognition and acknowledgement for women and their families who have experienced what has been historically, a very unrecognised and diminished grief.
A monthly service at the Garden is open and accessible to parents from any part of the State; it transcends all cultures, religious and spiritual beliefs and is offered to all who request it. The Garden is regularly visited by people on specific anniversary dates and other times important to them, such as Christmas, Easter, Mother’s or Father’s Day. Over a period of more than 30 years, it has become a sacred site for many thousands of bereaved women, their partners and families. Refer to https://www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/Our-services/Service-directory/Pastoral-Care-Services
The Garden was upgraded in 2009 through the generosity of Lotterywest and Rotary Matilda Bay, whose members continue an active involvement in its upkeep. It is clear that the lack of seating, shelter and basic amenities can detract from its ambience. At present it is neither private, quiet or totally comforting and there is an urgent need for a sympathetic refurbishment and expansion. The Garden requires an upgrade to reflect its significance for those that are grieving and mourning, and to become a significant and permanent place for reflection, reconnection, memory and healing.
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