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Balmoral Cemetery, sometimes called Bulimba or Morningside Cemetery, was opened around 1874 and its existence at the junction of Wynnum and Bennetts Roads in Morningside can be attributed to Frederick Wecker, who became one of the early Cemetery Trustees. Wecker loved the area and his impressive grave is situated at the highest point of the cemetery. The first burial took place in 1874. Sadly, it was that of George Wilson Pointon, a 6 year old boy who had drowned in Norman Creek on 26 June 1874. His brother William was disinterred from the Brisbane Cemetery (Lang Park) and reinterred with him. Their graves are located very close to the cemetery gates, off Bennetts Road.
The stone wall, which runs the perimeter of the site, was said to have been built during the depression years as part of a work labour program. The well known trade unionist Alex McDonald was supposed to have been part of the gang who built the wall.
The Brisbane City Council has records of approximately 14,900 interments but it is likely there are more since it is not known how many of the very early graves are occupied. The Brisbane City Council holds some original burial registers dating from 1888 to 1949, and Hemmant Cemetery office holds the original portion books dating from 1875. FOBC Inc maintains a full list of monumental inscriptions.
The cemetery closed in the early 1960’s but burials still take place for those who own family plots. A further 28 plots have been sold in recent years.
Graves predominantly face east, in accordance with Christian tradition, however some of the early graves face in the other direction.
A Lieutenant Governor, several Mayors, numerous Members of Parliament, pioneers, inventors, explorers and early settlers have their final resting-place at Balmoral Cemetery.
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Daylight hours, 365 days a year.
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Welcome by prior arrangement. Gold coin donation appreciated.
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Map Reference - Friends of Balmoral Cemetery
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