Pioneer Migrants of Historic St Patrick's Cemetery

A rare chance to explore and learn about the changing lives of pioneer migrants buried in Australia's oldest Catholic Cemetery

Renowned, local historian Judith Dunn OAM will inform and entertain you on this unique tour during which you'll discover the major changes in the lives of pioneer migrants from surprisingly diverse countries. To be expected in a Catholic cemetery, many headstones show Irish origin by carved shamrocks. Researching other stories reveals people from Germany, Italy, France, Scotland, Switzerland and China who made their homes in Australia. Explore their stories to find out why they came, and how changing countries and culture affected their lives. Some struggled, but some grasped opportunities and made successful new lives in the colony.

Friends of St Patrick's Cemetery is thrilled once again to be part of the National Trust's 2025 Australian Heritage Festival This year's festival theme is Change.

Tour runs for one hour. Please wear comfortable closed toe shoes and a hat!

Children under 5 are FREE, but please register so we can manage tour numbers.

After the tour, please join us for a cup of tea (complimentary for National Trust members).

St Patricks Cemetery, 1 Pennant Hills Road, North Parramatta, 2151, View Map