Events at South Brisbane Cemetery
Discover what's happening at South Brisbane Cemetery in Brisbane.
Upcoming Events at South Brisbane Cemetery
Showing 1-4 of 4 events
The Women of South Brisbane Cemetery
This special after-dark tour shines a light on the lives and legacies of women whose histories echo through Queensland's past.Carefully drawn from original sources and historical records, these true stories reveal moments of resilience, heartbreak, and triumph. As you walk by lamplight through one of Brisbane's most iconic cemeteries, you'll uncover the fascinating experiences of women who defied expectations, faced extraordinary challenges, and left a mark on the world around them.Expect to meet:a Brisbane journalist, with an extraordinary global journeya woman buried with not one, not two, but three husbandbrave nurses that made the ultimate sacrificea 19th century single mother and her success storywartime warriors and voices of the suffrage movement.This thoughtful and eye-opening tour is a unique way to explore the cemetery at night, while gaining deeper insight into the untold stories of Queensland's women.Step into their world. Hear their stories. And walk the paths where history lives on.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.
South Brisbane Cemetery Moonlight Tour
Where it all began - a cemetery, a torchlight, and a thousand untold stories.Step back into the roots of Brisbane's most beloved cemetery experiences on a Moonlight Tour, the original night-time walk that started it all. First held back circa 2009, this was the tour that lit the path - quite literally - for every Friends of South Brisbane Cemetery tour that's followed.Unlike other tours with fixed scripts and set stops, the Moonlight Tour is delightfully unpredictable. It flows with the mood of the night and the curiosity of the group. No two nights are the same, because no two walks through history should ever be!As you meander beneath the stars and the towering trees of South Brisbane Cemetery, your guides - Tracey Olivieri and Liam Baker - will share the real stories that have shaped this extraordinary place. They've spent years delving into the archives, decades amongst the headstones, and countless evenings sharing their passion for the cemetery with others.You might hear about:The floods that swallowed the pastThe evolution of headstone art and forgotten funerary symbolsThe graves of the executed, tucked quietly into a shaded cornerHow faith divided the dead in life, and in burialThe controversial "beautification" that reshaped an historical landscapeA whispered ghost story (or two)...for those who like their history with a little chillAnd whatever questions you bring - because on this tour, you help steer the story!This is history as it should be: lived, shared, and responsive to the wonder of the moment.Whether you're returning to where it all began or joining us for the very first time, the Moonlight Tour offers a rare and immersive way to explore South Brisbane Cemetery - not just as a resting place, but as a living archive of lives once lived.Bring your torch. Bring your curiosity. The story is still unfolding.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.