Events at South Brisbane Cemetery
Discover what's happening at South Brisbane Cemetery in Brisbane.
Upcoming Events at South Brisbane Cemetery
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Gruesome Graveyards
Join us for Gruesome Graveyards - a torchlit evening tour that explores the strange, unsettling, and sometimes downright bizarre customs and stories surrounding death, burial, and what lies beneath.Set against the atmospheric backdrop of South Brisbane Cemetery, this night-time walk offers a mix of fascinating graveyard lore drawn from historical records and broader burial traditions. While some tales are local, many stretch beyond Queensland, giving you a deeper look at how different times and places have dealt with life's one certainty.You'll encounter:the unsettling truth behind reused coffinsbody decomposition: nature's final and fascinating processBrisbane's brief but deadly brush with the bubonic plaguethe grim reality of grave-robbing in the 19th centurywhen justice once came with a drop and a rope.Guided by passionate storytellers - including award-winning cemetery historian Tracey Olivieri - this tour is a safe and engaging way to experience the cemetery after dark while learning about death through a historical and cultural lens.Bring a torch. Open your mind. And walk through the weird and wonderful world of Gruesome Graveyards.All of our tours are not-for-profit, with all money raised going to our cemetery history and maintenance projects.
Murder and Mayhem!
Join us for a chilling night-time journey through true tales of crime, tragedy, and twisted fate in the original Murder and Mayhem cemetery tour.Beneath the quiet headstones of South Brisbane Cemetery lie stories that once shocked a city. On this gripping after-dark walk, we delve into the real-life dramas of those caught up in scandal, violence, and heartbreaking loss - all based on thoroughly researched historical records.This tour will take you deep into the shadows of Queensland's criminal past, where nothing is quite as it seems.Prepare to hear about:a betrayal that shattered a family from withina suspicious death... and a husband under the microscopethe gallows execution that went terribly wronga decades-old case that embarrassed the Queensland Policea mother and baby child's final, frozen night.Led by engaging storytellers, including award-winning cemetery historian Tracey Olivieri, this unforgettable experience is a safe and atmospheric way to explore one of Brisbane's most historic burial grounds under the cover of darkness - dare to walk among the departed, discovering the real stories behind the stone.All of our tours are not-for-profit, with all money raised going to our cemetery history and maintenance projects.
'Guardian Angels' Grave Cleaning Day
Every month, something quietly wonderful happens at South Brisbane Cemetery. Neighbours, families, history lovers, and curious newcomers roll up their sleeves and come together as part of our Guardian Angels program. A cheerful, hands-on initiative where we clean and care for the graves of those long gone, but never forgotten.Launched in 2018 (with roots reaching back to 2005), this volunteer program invites people of all ages and backgrounds to help preserve the beauty and dignity of one of Brisbane's most historic cemeteries. Whether you're gently washing a headstone, trimming overgrown grass, or simply uncovering a long-hidden inscription, every small act reveals a story and restores a little light to the lives buried here.These relaxed, feel-good days have become one of our most loved community events, with many participants returning month after month, some even bringing along the whole family. Children often find joy in the 'treasure hunt' aspect of the work, while adults appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and chance to connect with both history and new friends.We're working section by section, grave by grave, with care and respect. It's not just about tidying up, it's about honouring lives lived and reconnecting our community with its past. Some of the graves we clean haven't been visited in decades, and for many of our volunteers, the work becomes deeply meaningful.Over the years, we've also come together for big clean-ups after the 2011 floods and participated in Clean Up Australia Day events. The energy and warmth of these group efforts continue to inspire us.If you've ever been curious about grave care, love local history, or simply want to spend a Saturday morning doing something truly rewarding, we'd love to welcome you. No experience is needed, just bring your enthusiasm, a hat, and maybe a friend or two. We'll provide the tools, guidance, and good company.Come along and be part of something special because every grave has a story, and every helping hand makes a difference.