DUTTON PARK WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Torchlit Walk Through River Cemetery: A 2‑Hour Crime Tour of South Brisbane
A 2-hour walking tour of South Brisbane (Dutton Park) Cemetery that traces graves of executed bushrangers, poisoned warders and victims of historic crimes — this guide explains what to bring, who should attend, and the route's key stops.
Torchlit Walk Through River Cemetery: A 2‑Hour Crime Tour of South Brisbane.
Explore the haunting history of South Brisbane Cemetery on a 2‑hour walking tour that leads you among the final resting places of notorious criminals, executed bushrangers and victims of crime. The tour combines stark true‑crime storytelling with the atmosphere of River Cemetery in Dutton Park, offering a compact, evocative window into Brisbane’s darker past.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Graves of bushrangers and executed prisoners
Visit the marked graves of Australia’s last bushranger and those connected to executions at nearby Boggo Road Gaol, anchored by first‑hand storytelling that ties individual plots to high‑profile crimes.
True‑crime storytelling in an atmospheric setting
Guides recount tales of poisoned warders, cold‑blooded criminals and victims whose stories remain on headstones — the tour’s focus is on the real crimes linked to the cemetery’s occupants.
River Cemetery ambience and period grave markers
The cemetery’s landscaping and monuments frame the narrative, lending a somber backdrop to stories of crime, punishment and remembrance told along the route.
What the day feels like
What the tour feels like
This is a compact, guide‑led walking experience through South Brisbane Cemetery that unfolds over roughly two hours, moving from plot to plot as stories of criminals and victims are revealed. Expect close‑up views of graves and an emphasis on storytelling rather than a broad historical lecture.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should choose otherwise.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours.
Bring your own torch (phone torch apps are acceptable), a filled water bottle, and wear flat enclosed shoes; bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.
No toilet facilities are available at the cemetery; tours will still run in the rain and will only be cancelled if conditions become dangerous.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need to bring a torch?
Yes. Each guest must bring a torch; phone torch apps are suitable.
Are there toilet facilities at the site?
No. There are no toilet facilities at this site; please use facilities elsewhere before joining the tour.
What are the age restrictions?
Tours are not suitable for children under 10. Those under 18 must be accompanied/supervised by an adult.
What shoes should I wear?
All guests must wear flat enclosed shoes; other shoes will not be accepted.
Will the tour run in the rain?
Yes. Tours will still run in the rain; bring an umbrella or raincoat. Tours will only be cancelled if conditions become dangerous.
Can I drink alcohol or smoke before or during the tour?
No. Consumption of alcohol or use of illegal substances before or during the tour is not permitted; smoking and vaping are also prohibited at any time during tours.