Did you know that Hemmant Cemetery is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year? Established in March 1874, this historic site has served as a final resting place for generations of Brisbane residents. Here’s a look back at the cemetery’s rich history.
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A Victorian Legacy
The first burial at Hemmant Cemetery took place in 1875, in a section that reflected the aesthetic of the Victorian era. During this time, cemeteries were carefully designed with elaborate monuments that carried deep symbolism—broken columns signifying a life cut short, upside-down torches representing extinguished life, and wreaths symbolising eternal remembrance. Grieving women carved into stone watched over the deceased, adding to the mournful beauty of the site.
Spanning approximately 14.5 hectares, Hemmant Cemetery was thoughtfully laid out with 10 individual sections, each carefully kerbed and grassed. Roadways were flanked by lush green trees and selected shrubs, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors. The preservation of indigenous tree avenues between burial sections further enhanced the sense of solitude and reflection. A shrine of remembrance was later constructed, along with modern facilities to accommodate the needs of mourners.
A Place of History and Reflection
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the heritage-listed Hemmant Cemetery holds historical significance as one of the few surviving remnants of the area’s development in the late 19th century. It remains a highly visible landmark at Tingalpa Road, demonstrating the transition of cemetery designs from traditional burial grounds to the Victorian ‘mortuary park’ style. This particular cemetery design, developed throughout the Western world in the early 19th century, sought to create tranquil environments for remembrance and reflection.
For the first 55 years of its operation, respected members of the Brisbane community served as trustees, overseeing daily operations and future planning. The cemetery’s development took a new turn in 1930 when Council took ownership of all cemeteries within the city, including Hemmant.
By 1949, major changes were introduced, including two new sections designed to accommodate 3,000 graves. The ‘Garden of Rest’ was introduced in 1952-3, offering a peaceful, sylvan setting for burials.
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The Hemmant Cemetery office, constructed in 1951, remains in use today, having undergone internal refurbishment in 2021. Despite modernisations, the cemetery continues to honour its historical roots while providing a dignified resting place for the people of Brisbane.
As Hemmant Cemetery marks its 150th year, it stands as a remarkable heritage site—bridging the past with the present, offering a place of solace, and preserving the legacy of those who came before us.
Published 7-March-2025