The monument was made possible by members of the Victorian Chinese Foundation, who have placed memorials at a number of other cemeteries around the state in recognition of their ancestors.

The Stawell memorial features a Chinese inscription on its front and an English translation on the back, which reads:

``This memorial was erected to the memory of our early Chinese ancestors. It is to commemorate their energy, their travels, their courage and their sacrifices in paving the way for future generations of Australian Chinese. It is to be hoped that these future generations will remember them fondly with pride and respect.''

Last year, the chief executive officer of the Chinese Foundation, Sonny Duong, contacted Stawell Funeral Directors' Geoff Sanderson about the placement of a memorial at the Stawell Cemetery.

Mr Duong visited Stawell early this year with other members of the foundation in order to select the memorial site.

The foundation members used feng shui relating to the area's environment and local features when choosing the site.

They decided the memorial should face the Black Ranges.

The memorial will be officially opened and blessed on Sunday, May 30.

A large contingent from the Chinese Foundation of Melbourne will attend, along with several monks and the Chinese Consul.

Members of the community are invited to attend the official open and blessing ceremony.