Historic cemeteries enter next chapter
With Mooloolah and Mapleton Cemeteries approaching capacity, existing burial reservations and rights will continue to be honoured, ash interments will remain available, and both cemeteries will stay open to visitors as valued places of remembrance and reflection.
The gate in front of Mooloolah cemetery.
Two of the Sunshine Coast's historic cemeteries are entering a new chapter, with reservations for new burial sites limited within the Mooloolah and Mapleton cemeteries, as the sites approach capacity.
Existing burial reservations and rights will continue to be honoured, ash interments will remain available, and both cemeteries will stay open to visitors as valued places of remembrance and reflection.
Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said the transition to perpetual care reflects careful long-term planning to preserve both cemeteries for generations to come.
"Mooloolah and Mapleton cemeteries hold deep significance for many local families and communities, and are important links to our region's history," Cr Law said.
"For generations, people have gathered at these cemeteries to remember loved ones, reflect on the past and honour those who helped shape their communities.
"While both cemeteries are approaching capacity for new burials, it is important for residents to understand that neither cemetery is closing and existing burial rights and reservations will not be affected.
"Families who already hold burial reservations will continue to be able to use those sites, and those with rights to reopen existing family graves for additional interments will retain those arrangements.
"Council will continue to care for both cemeteries, preserve their heritage and support families through our Cemetery Services team."
Ash interments will remain available, and both cemeteries will remain open to visitors as valued places of remembrance and reflection.
Residents seeking future burial options can access services at Beerwah, Gheerulla, Kulangoor, Witta and Yandina cemeteries. Beerwah Cemetery is the closest alternative for Mooloolah residents and Kulangoor Cemetery the closest to Mapleton Cemetery.
Sunshine Coast Council manages 18 cemeteries and offers a range of interment services to the community. Visit Cemeteries | Sunshine Coast Council for more information.
The Sunshine Coast Cemetery Plan 2019–2028, adopted by Council in September 2019, guides the long-term management of Council's cemetery network and the continued delivery of cemetery services across the region.
Mapleton Cemetery
Established in 1891, Mapleton Cemetery has served the hinterland community for more than a century and has facilitated more than 120 burials. In 1918, community members gathered at Mapleton Hall to form a committee to oversee the cemetery's future. Residents took responsibility for managing and maintaining the cemetery through volunteer trustees.
Like many small regional cemeteries, its care depended on the commitment of local people. By 1960, responsibility for the cemetery had transferred to Maroochy Shire Council, ensuring its ongoing preservation and care.
Based on current services, it is expected that Mapleton Cemetery will reach capacity for new burials by mid-2027.
Mooloolah Cemetery
Mooloolah Cemetery was established in 1876 and has facilitated more than 1,500 burials. Burials had taken place on the site from the 1870s before residents successfully petitioned for the establishment of a formal cemetery reserve in 1890.
Trustees worked to improve and maintain the grounds, creating a lasting place of remembrance for generations of families. Over time, responsibility for the cemetery passed to local government, continuing a tradition of stewardship that remains today.
Based on current services it is expected to reach capacity for new burials in late 2026.
