Centenary Memorial Gardens (CMG) in Sumner is seeking approval for a major expansion, including new facilities and burial zones, as part of its long-term development plan. The proposal, currently in the pre-lodgement consultation phase, has raised both community support and concerns, particularly regarding potential flood risks.
CMG, one of Brisbane’s largest privately owned cemeteries, has been serving the community for over 22 years. In response to increasing demand for burial and cremation spaces, CMG has submitted a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) application (MID-0924-0875) to the Department of State Development.
The proposal outlines plans for a new chapel, café, a catering area, and a dedicated Asian lotus garden incorporating feng shui principles. Additionally, an open-air pavilion with a 200-person capacity is planned to provide enhanced spaces for services and memorial gatherings.
Flood Risk and Environmental Considerations
One of the most debated aspects of the expansion is CMG’s request to extend burial sites into lower-lying areas of its 16.5-hectare property on Wacol Station Road. The existing burial zone sits at 8.8 metres above sea level, above the flood-prone Wolston Creek. The Planning and Environment Court had previously set this limit in 2000 to prevent potential environmental risks, including leaching of contaminants and coffin buoyancy during severe flooding.
However, CMG’s commissioned studies suggest that burials could be safely conducted at 5.16 metres, with reports from Core Consultants indicating no contamination risks from current burial grounds. The proposal also accounts for triple burials, where caskets are stacked, and compensatory earthworks to manage site elevation.
BCC’s Position and Approval Process
The BCC has expressed concerns over CMG’s attempt to bypass standard town planning approvals by seeking state-level designation. BCC wants conditions placed on aspects such as noise levels, lighting, traffic impact, and biodiversity protection. CMG has responded by noting that only 17 native trees, including 11 classified as koala habitat, would be removed under the proposed changes.
Currently, CMG is in the pre-lodgement consultation phase of the MID process, where stakeholders, including city officials and local community members, can provide feedback before the official proposal is lodged. The public consultation period for this proposal began on 19 December 2024 and will conclude on 26 February 2025.
Community Response: Mixed Reactions
Local residents have voiced both support and opposition to the expansion. Many families who have loved ones buried at CMG welcome the improved facilities and additional burial options. However, others have raised concerns about potential disturbances from events hosted at the cemetery, such as Christmas fireworks and memorial services featuring amplified music.
CMG director James McKay has assured the community that fireworks occur only once a year as part of a Christmas memorial service, aimed at providing solace to grieving families. He emphasised that the expansion focuses on enhancing existing facilities rather than increasing large-scale celebrations.
Next Steps in the Approval Process
Following the pre-lodgement consultation phase, CMG will submit its proposal for ministerial assessment. Adjustments based on public feedback may also be required before the project receives full approval.
As Brisbane’s population grows and cemetery space becomes increasingly limited, the outcome of CMG’s expansion request will have long-term implications for burial and cremation services in the region.
Published 13-Feb-2025