Meet the groundskeeper breathing life into a regional war cemetery
Rob Thorne is the dedicated groundskeeper of the Adelaide River War Cemetery, where he honors the memories of the 435 individuals buried there. He takes pride in maintaining the cemetery's gardens, including successfully growing perpetual roses despite the challenging climate. Thorne's work is particularly meaningful as he connects with the stories of those who served and the impact of historical events in the region.
- ▪Rob Thorne is the groundskeeper of the Adelaide River War Cemetery, which has 435 graves.
- ▪The cemetery is located in a town with a population of just over 300 people.
- ▪Thorne faced challenges in maintaining the cemetery after floodwaters caused significant damage last month.
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The groundskeeper of the Adelaide River War Cemetery keeping the memories of the fallen alive and wellBy Lillian WatkinsTopic:Funerals and Memorial ServicesSun 24 May 2026 at 8:51amSun 24 May 2026 at 8:51amSun 24 May 2026 at 8:51amRob Thorne is the dedicated groundskeeper who keeps the Adelaide River War Cemetery alive. (ABC News: Lillian Watkins)abc.net.au/news/nt-groundskeeper-keeping-alive-adelaide-river-war-cemetery/106712076Link copiedShareShare articleStobo, Daisy, Molly and Archibald are just four of the 435 names who keep groundskeeper Rob Thorne company during his workday in the town of Adelaide River, about an hour south-east of Darwin."You know them — well, I'm around long enough that they probably know me better than I know them," Mr Thorne said."But you do connect with them ……
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