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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Secrets of the South Brisbane Cemetery
Join us for Secrets of the South Brisbane Cemetery — a torchlit night-time experience that lifts the lid on some of the most curious, overlooked, and downright bizarre truths hidden among the graves of this iconic Victorian-era cemetery. This isn’t a ghost tour — it’s something even more unusual. On this walk through the shadows, you’ll uncover the real stories that don’t make the history books, but are buried deep in cemetery records, faded headstones, and old council maps. It’s a night of strange discoveries, urban oddities, and the forgotten dead. Expect to uncover: The murderers buried beneath the roadA single grave holding 96 souls — and why?The mystery of South Brisbane Cemetery’s “lost residents”Vanishing headstones and the tales they once toldBodies that didn’t start here — and how they arrivedGuided by your passionate guides, this tour is a safe, insightful way to explore the cemetery under the stars, and to hear the little-known tales that have slowly faded from public memory.History has its secrets. Come find the ones that were never meant to stay buried. All of our tours are not-for-profit, with all money raised going to our cemetery history and maintenance projects.
Deathly Tales of South Brisbane Cemetery
Join us for an after-dark experience as we step into the Deathly Tales of South Brisbane Cemetery’s most tragic and chilling true incidents. On this special night-time tour, we unravel the shocking and sorrowful histories of those who met gruesome, untimely, and sometimes downright bizarre ends. Drawn straight from historical records, these real-life accounts will take you deep into the past, where fate, folly, and misfortune played their cruel hand. Expect to hear about: The gunshot that claimed a life…more than a year laterA family’s devastating infernoThe ‘Lionheart’ cursed with unlucky legsWest End’s shocking powder keg disasterA lethal dose of carbolic acidGuided by passionate storytellers including award-winning cemetery historian Tracey Olivieri, this immersive experience offers a safe yet spine-tingling way to explore the cemetery under the cover of darkness.Step into the past. Hear the stories. And see South Brisbane Cemetery like never before. 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. We will be at the cemetery between 9am–3pm on these days. You are welcome to come when you want and stay for as long as you want. Meet at the office in the centre of the cemetery. Parking is available inside the cemetery. More information available via the South Brisbane Cemetery website.
The Haunts of Brisbane Presents: Sorry Sagas of South Brisbane Cemetery
Step into the stillness of night and join The Haunts of Brisbane for one of its rarest events: Sorry Sagas of South Brisbane Cemetery - a twilight wander through tales that are tragic, curious, and occasionally just plain strange. Held only twice a year, this torchlit experience winds through the grand headstones and crumbling monuments of one of Brisbane’s most atmospheric cemeteries. As the curlews cry in the dark and watchful possums peer down from the fig trees, you’ll uncover real-life stories that lie somewhere between misadventure and misfortune - all carefully unearthed and retold by Liam Baker, founder of The Haunts of Brisbane and one of Queensland’s most dedicated paranormal historians. Expect a selection of Brisbane’s lesser-known, head-scratching, and sometimes head-shaking tales, including: the vanished body scandal from Wolston Parka 19th-century ‘electro-bath’ with very 21st-century consequencesthe devastating 1947 Camp Mountain train crasha funeral hijacked - complete with last-minute family dramaSouth Brisbane Cemetery’s notorious morgue, and the flood legends that won’t stay buried.Whether you’re a history buff, a curious mind, or just here for the frogs and folklore, this is an unforgettable way to explore the cemetery’s darker corners and forgotten chapters. All stories are sourced from historical records - no tall tales, just Brisbane’s strange-but-true past. Join us after dark. Hear the stories that still echo. And see South Brisbane Cemetery like few ever do. All of our tours are not-for-profit, with all money raised going to our cemetery history and maintenance projects.