You’ll walk through Brisbane’s Toowong Cemetery after dark, guided by haunted historian Jack Sim as he shares chilling ghost stories and true crime tales. Expect steep hills, eerie statues, and unexpected moments—plus you’ll take home his book as a memento. It’s not just spooky; it lingers with you in ways you won’t see coming.
I’ll admit, I laughed when my friend dared me to bring my own torch to the Toowong Cemetery ghost tour. But standing at the gates in Brisbane, with the air oddly still and my phone flashlight already flickering, it hit me—this place is nothing like your usual city stroll. Our guide (Jack, who literally wrote the book on this stuff) had this way of pausing just long enough before each story that you’d catch yourself glancing over your shoulder. The first stop was near a statue people say moves at night—honestly, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to look away or stare it down.
The group was a mix of locals and out-of-towners; one woman whispered she used to walk her dog here in daylight but “never after sunset.” There’s something about hearing stories of murderers and black widows while your shoes crunch over old gravel that makes you feel like you’re trespassing on someone else’s memory. At one point, Jack pointed out a grave up on the hill—steep climb (wear decent shoes!), but the view back toward the city lights was strange and beautiful. He told us about a boxer buried there, and for a second I could almost picture him shadowboxing between the headstones. Didn’t expect that part.
I kept thinking about how much history just sits here, mostly ignored until someone shines a light—literally—on it. The air smelled faintly of eucalyptus and wet stone (it rained earlier), and every so often someone’s torch would catch an old inscription or wilted flower. The stories got under my skin more than I expected; by the time we circled back past the “Black Prince” grave, my friend wasn’t laughing anymore either. We left with Jack’s book tucked under our arms—a weird comfort for later—and honestly, I still think about that quiet moment at the top of the hill.
Parking information isn’t specified; public transport options are nearby.
The guided historic ghost tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
You must bring your own torch; smartphone torch apps are acceptable.
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old; all children up to 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Flat-soled enclosed shoes are required; sandals or high heels are not permitted.
No meals are included in this experience.
The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.
Yes, all travelers must show proof of full vaccination unless exempt or under age 16.
Your evening includes a guided 1.5-hour walk through Toowong Cemetery with haunted historian Jack Sim, a copy of his book “Ghosts of Toowong Cemetery,” GST coverage, and a donation to Ghost Tours’ Haunted Heritage Fund—all you need is your own torch and sturdy shoes.
Do you need help planning your next activity?