Tours of Sandgate Cemetery

Sandgate Cemetery in 2020 and 2021

COVID-19 caused our planned tours of Sandgate in 2020 to be cancelled according to restrictions place by the Federal and NSW Governments, Northern Cemeteries and NFHS organisers. We were very hopeful for running our tours in 2021 but unfortunately, after discussions amongst the Planning Group and consultation with the Sandgate Cemetery manager, we had to confirm that our usual wonderful day of tours of part of the cemetery weren't able to go ahead in May 2021. Between the very strict COVID-19 conditions placed on the cemetery and the Society’s concern for the well-being of our members and volunteers, plus the members of the public who are always so keen to participate in our days, it’s just not possible to go ahead as we had hoped. The small silver lining is that our research and booklet will be ready whenever we are able to hold such an event again. Fortunately, the booklet hadn’t been printed so we can just change the date. We hope to be back in 2022. ​

26 May 2019 - Congregational Section

We began our tours of Sandgate and in 2019 the event involved much more from the wider community. Our tour was not the only thing happening at Sandgate that day. ​There was a virtual tour at the information tent; a flower display near the office; an art display in the chapel with music by a therapeutic harpist; a photo display in the office; a history of grave digging at the Lawn Cemetery and a hearse, coffin and casket display near the Greek section of the cemetery. Food was also available with a coffee van near the office; food stalls near the Garden of the Innocents and a sausage sizzle at the Mortuary Station where the Marching Koalas performed. ABC Newcastle Radio was in attendance.

May 2018 - Presbyterian Section

May 2017 - Catholic 2 and Church of England 2 cemeteries

Sandgate Cemetery opened the Chapel.

May 2016 - Catholic 1 and Church of England 1 and some others

We began our tours of Sandgate in 2016. Our first tour was the initiative of our former member Heather. The tour covered some of the oldest graves in Sandgate.