Sydney, September 2026: Rookwood Catholic Cemetery will open its historic grounds for Rookwood Heritage Day on Sunday 13 September, inviting the community to discover more than 150 years of history, stories and traditions.
Celebrating the 2026 NSW History Week theme, ‘Keeping Stories’, the free, all-ages event will feature behind-the-scenes experiences, tours, exhibition stalls, displays, demonstrations and activities showcasing Rookwood’s rich cultural, religious and social heritage.
The event is proudly hosted by Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria (CC+C) in partnership with Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP).
EVENT DETAILS
What: Rookwood Heritage Day
When: Sunday 13 September 2026, 9.00am–2.00pm
Where: Rookwood Necropolis, including Rookwood General Cemetery & Crematorium and Rookwood Catholic Cemetery & Crematorium
Cost: Free
Who: All ages are welcome
Registration: Tickets from: Rookwood Heritage Day Humanitix website
Events: Program at: Rookwood Heritage Day Event on CC+C website
”Rookwood Heritage Day creates an important connection between the cemetery’s history and its continuing role in community life.
Lauren HardgroveCC+C CEO
Rookwood Catholic Cemetery is a living record of the faith, cultures and stories of the communities we have been privileged to serve for generations. Heritage Day allows us to share that legacy while showing that remembrance is not confined to the past - it continues through the care we provide, the traditions we uphold, and the connections families carry forward.
Visitors to the Catholic Cemetery precinct will have a range of activities and experiences to choose from, including:
- CC+C exhibitor stall – meet our team, learn about our history and services, and take part in the special Tree of Remembrance activity.
- Community and industry stalls & displays – meet representatives from the Maronite community, funeral directors and organisations supporting people through grief and loss.
- St Michael the Archangel Chapel tour – take a guided walk through the historic chapel and discover its history and significance.
- Stations of the Cross – join a guided experience or explore the pathway at your own pace.
- Catholic Crematorium tour – go behind the scenes to better understand the cremation process and the care, dignity and respect involved.
- Monuments display – explore how memorial traditions, religious expression and craftsmanship have evolved across generations.
- Grave digging demonstration – see the technology, expertise and respectful care involved in preparing a grave for interment.
- Memory Minder demonstration – discover our digital memorialisation service and how it can help preserve and share memories.
- ‘Continuing our Bonds’ talk & craft activity – hear from our Grief Care team about how connections with those who have died can continue through memory, ritual and meaning.
A free trackless train and buses will transport visitors across the grounds; there will be vintage and modern hearse and police vehicle displays, talks, screenings, workshops, and craft activities, with plenty of food and coffee trucks, and live music and entertainment to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day for everyone who attends.
Media Contact: Mark Hamilton, Cemetery Manager – Rookwood Catholic Cemetery, 0488 696 988, markh@catholiccemeteries.com.au
