South Brisbane Cemetery Brisbane
A historic cemetery offering a peaceful escape and a journey through Brisbane's diverse past, from early immigrants to soldiers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful reflection time
South Brisbane Cemetery Brisbane
Best Time
Peaceful reflection time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cemetery offering a peaceful escape and a journey through Brisbane's diverse past, from early immigrants to soldiers.
"Peaceful old cemetery under the trees, a nice place for a ponder and a sandwich."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be rocky and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
It's a peaceful place for a ponder and a sandwich. Limited facilities available. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Immigrant Graves
Various sections
Discover the final resting places of early Eastern European and British immigrants, offering a glimpse into Brisbane's diverse past.
World War II Soldier Memorials
War graves section
Pay tribute to soldiers who died during World War II, a poignant reminder of their sacrifice.
Russian Orthodox Tombstones
Russian Orthodox section
Observe unique Russian Orthodox tombstones with distinctive crossbow designs, symbolizing the path to the afterlife.
Haunted Bus Stop
Near cemetery entrance
Experience the eerie atmosphere of Brisbane's 'most haunted bus stop,' rumored to be visited by a spectral lady.
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Community Involvement
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be rocky and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
It's a peaceful place for a ponder and a sandwich. Limited facilities available. :sandwich:
Respect the Quiet
This is a place of rest. Please observe quietly and show respect for the deceased. :pray:
Join Grave Cleaning
Volunteer with 'Friends of South Brisbane Cemetery' for monthly grave cleaning sessions. :handwithfingers_splayed:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be rocky and uneven. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
It's a peaceful place for a ponder and a sandwich. Limited facilities available. :sandwich:
Respect the Quiet
This is a place of rest. Please observe quietly and show respect for the deceased. :pray:
Join Grave Cleaning
Volunteer with 'Friends of South Brisbane Cemetery' for monthly grave cleaning sessions. :handwithfingers_splayed:
Check Event Dates
Follow 'Friends of South Brisbane Cemetery' on Facebook for upcoming grave cleaning event dates. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
South Brisbane Cemetery is a peaceful, historical site offering a unique glimpse into Brisbane's past, with notable graves of early immigrants and soldiers. While appreciated for its contemplative atmosphere and historical significance, some areas suffer from neglect, with rocky paths impacting accessibility. Visitors often enjoy the quietude and the opportunity to connect with history, though the dilapidated state of some sections is a common observation.
"Peaceful old cemetery under the trees. Includes graves of early eastern European and British immigrants.
Paths are quite rocky and damaged in places; limited accessibility.
Nice place for a ponder and a sandwich."
Sharon Smith
"It's a cemetery, sit quietly and contemplate your life. Those laid to rest helped make Australia what it is today, show some respect. Family moves on, vandals should be made to maintain the markers and headstones. No security or police patrol the area from what I saw, and the stones can do nothing but mark the passing of time. You may have to squint a little to read them, but it's possible. The first grave there is from 1877. It's worth a look just for the history side of it."
Ruth Mavroleon
"A huge, old cemetery where burials stretch from the 18 hundreds to the 21st century.
You can usually spot the more recent graves as some of them are adorned with fresh flowers.
Some of the antient ones look worst for wear with sinking graves, leaning or broken headstones and writing obliterated through the various weathers they’ve had to endure.
Registered as a historical site, some of the burials include different nationalities, soldiers who died during world war 11 and notorious prisoners of the Bogo Jail which used to be located nearby.
The cemetery is very hilly but being located on a major road it is easy to reach by public transport.
Although there seems to be plenty of land, apparently no new burials are taking place except in existing family graves.
For the live comers, there is a toilet block, seats here and there, and plenty of trees if you’re looking for shade."
Vlady Peters
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Brisbane Cemetery is easily accessible by public transport, being located on a major road. Many bus routes service the area, making it convenient to reach. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
While the cemetery is registered as a historical site, some paths can be rocky and damaged, limiting accessibility in certain areas. Visitors with mobility concerns should be aware of this.
South Brisbane Cemetery is situated in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It's a large, old cemetery with burials spanning from the 1800s to the 21st century.
Yes, the cemetery can serve as a handy shortcut, for example, to the Eleanor Schonell (Green) Bridge. It offers a peaceful, albeit sometimes rocky, passage.
As a cemetery, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening and closing times are not typically advertised, but it's a place for quiet contemplation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit South Brisbane Cemetery. It is a public space for reflection and historical exploration.
Tickets are not required to visit South Brisbane Cemetery. It's an open historical site that visitors can explore freely.
Visitors are asked to show respect for the deceased and the historical nature of the site. Avoid loud noises and be mindful of the surroundings.
While the cemetery is a place of eerie tales, especially around the 'haunted bus stop,' it's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and respect.
The 'Guardian Angels' program is a volunteer group organized by 'Friends of South Brisbane Cemetery' that conducts monthly grave cleaning sessions to help preserve the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cemetery holds a rich history, with burials dating back to 1877. It includes graves of early immigrants, World War II soldiers, and even notorious prisoners from the former Bogo Jail.
Yes, there is a toilet block and seats available throughout the cemetery, offering some amenities for visitors.
The 'haunted bus stop' is a local legend associated with the cemetery, where visitors and bus drivers have reported eerie experiences, including cold breezes and sightings of a spectral woman.
Photography is generally permitted, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the location. Focus on the historical aspects and avoid intrusive shots.
The cemetery features burials from various nationalities, reflecting Brisbane's early multicultural population, including Eastern European and British immigrants.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants located within South Brisbane Cemetery itself. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks.
As South Brisbane Cemetery is located in a populated area of Brisbane, you can find various dining options in the surrounding suburbs. It's recommended to explore nearby commercial areas for cafes and restaurants.
Yes, it's a nice place for a ponder and a sandwich, suggesting that picnics are permissible. Just ensure you clean up after yourself and maintain the peaceful atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The cemetery offers many photogenic opportunities, from the historic headstones and unique Russian Orthodox tombstones to the natural beauty of the trees. The older, weathered graves can be particularly evocative.
While generally permitted, it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of recent graves or during any services. Focus on the historical and architectural elements.
Many visitors are drawn to capturing the historical gravestones, the atmospheric trees, and the unique architectural details of the tombstones, like the Russian Orthodox crosses.
Tripod usage is generally acceptable for personal photography, but it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots, highlighting the textures of the gravestones and the surrounding nature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to look for different types of gravestones, like the unique Russian Orthodox ones, or to imagine the lives of the people buried there. It's a quiet place, so setting expectations for respectful behavior is key. Bringing a picnic to enjoy in a designated area can also make the visit more enjoyable for younger visitors.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Ponderers
Solo explorers can take their time to read inscriptions, appreciate the natural surroundings, and connect with the past. The cemetery's accessibility by public transport makes it an easy solo excursion. Remember to be mindful of the solemnity of the place and to tread respectfully.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay special attention to the graves of World War II soldiers and the unique Russian Orthodox tombstones, which offer specific historical and cultural insights. The cemetery's registration as a historical site highlights its importance, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Australian history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of South Brisbane Cemetery
Despite its historical value, much of the cemetery is undeniably dilapidated. Sinking graves, leaning or broken headstones, and weather-obliterated inscriptions are common sights. However, this very state of disrepair contributes to its unique, melancholic beauty. Recent burials are rare, typically only occurring in existing family plots, meaning the cemetery primarily functions as a historical archive rather than an active burial ground. This preservation status, coupled with the ongoing efforts of community groups, ensures that the stories held within its grounds continue to be accessible.
The cemetery's landscape is characterized by its hilly terrain and a multitude of trees, providing shade and a serene atmosphere. While it may appear to have ample land, the focus has shifted towards preservation and remembrance. The presence of historical memorial gardens, though in need of considerable care, adds to the contemplative environment. It's a place where visitors can stroll, reflect, and connect with the lives of those who shaped the region.
Community Preservation Efforts: The 'Guardian Angels'
These volunteer days are well-organized and welcoming. Participants are provided with necessary tools and cleaning supplies, or can donate items like toothbrushes, scrubbers, spray bottles, dustpans, brooms, shovels, rakes, and buckets. The sessions typically run from 9 am to 4 pm, but volunteers are welcome to join for shorter periods, such as the morning hours. The group actively promotes these events on Facebook, where interested individuals can find dates and RSVP.
+1The success of these community efforts is evident, with past events seeing a significant turnout of volunteers. This collective action not only helps to combat the natural decay of the gravestones but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility and connection to local history. It's a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with the cemetery on a deeper level, contributing to its legacy while learning about its past.
+1Local Legends and Eerie Encounters
Beyond the haunted bus stop, the cemetery's age and the stories of those buried within contribute to its eerie reputation. The sheer number of graves, some dating back to the late 19th century, and the visible signs of decay on many headstones can evoke a sense of the past lingering in the present. The cemetery's historical context, including the burials of soldiers and prisoners, further fuels these spectral narratives.
While the cemetery is a place for respectful contemplation, these local legends are part of its unique character. They draw attention to the site and offer a different perspective on its history, blending historical fact with the enduring power of ghost stories and local folklore.
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