Tallowood Cemetery Masterplan

The Tallowood Cemetery Masterplan presents a transformative 100-year framework for Moreton Bay’s largest cemetery, reimagining how contemporary burial grounds can serve communities while respecting their sacred purpose. Positioned adjacent to Freshwater National Park, this forward-thinking project addresses the complex environmental, economic, cultural, and social challenges facing modern cemeteries through innovative design and community engagement.

Guided by the principle of “one structure and many futures,” the masterplan establishes fixed structural elements while introducing flexible zones for diverse interment typologies. This approach ensures the cemetery can adapt as burial practices evolve, providing the resilience necessary to serve the region for more than a century. The design strategically departs from traditional lawn burial models, establishing a continuous feedback loop between Council, community, and stakeholders through a consolidated customer service facility.

The masterplan’s integrated approach is exemplified by its central waterbody, which serves as both a contemplative focal point and critical infrastructure element. Part of a comprehensive water management system, it increases stormwater detention capacity, reduces infrastructure costs and embodied carbon, provides irrigation storage, supports biodiversity, and contributes passive cooling benefits. This multifunctional design philosophy recognises that contemporary cemeteries must serve as community assets contributing to urban greenspace, cultural connection, and environmental sustainability.

Cultural recognition and healing Country principles are woven throughout the design, with extensive consultation with Kabi Kabi Traditional Owners informing implementation strategies and creating opportunities for ongoing involvement in land management and stewardship. By establishing flexible frameworks rather than rigid solutions, the Tallowwood Cemetery Masterplan creates a resilient foundation that honours the past while building toward a sustainable future, serving as a national model for innovative cemetery design.