Ancestry Stories
The legacies within our locations may not always be known by name, yet their impact continues to shape the communities we live in today.
Ancestry Stories uncovers the lives of notable residents laid to rest across our locations, brought to light through collaboration with descendants and local historians. More than a record of names and dates, these stories reflect our role as a gateway to the past — connecting our communities with the history and heritage that surrounds them every day.
Many of these legacies may be unfamiliar by name, yet their influence continues to shape the communities we live in now. Each story shared here offers just a glimpse into the remarkable lives remembered within our grounds, with many more still waiting to be uncovered and told.
Major Richard Gibbs
Colac Cemetery
Fanny & William Brownbill
Geelong Western Cemetery
William Brownbill built a political career serving Geelong. After his death, his wife Fanny stepped forward to continue his legacy and made history in her own right.
Henrietta Dugdale
Queenscliff Cemetery
From a Queenscliff dairy farm to the forefront of Australia’s women’s movement, Henrietta Dugdale helped establish Australia’s first women’s suffrage society.
Mary De Garis
Geelong Eastern Cemetery
Mary De Garis broke barriers as a pioneering doctor, serving on the battlefield and transforming maternity care in Geelong.
James Harrison
Geelong Eastern Cemetery
From printing newspapers to pioneering refrigeration, James Harrison’s invention went from a small shed on the Barwon River to the world.
Charles Brownlow
Geelong Eastern Cemetery
From a Geelong footballer playing under a false name to the man behind Australian football’s most famous medal, Charles Brownlow’s story is anything but ordinary.
Discover your own family history
Interested in exploring your own family history, discovering the stories of your ancestors and connecting with the rich history of our regions? Search our free online tool dating back to 1839.
We make visiting easy. A pinpoint location on an interactive map and accompanying details of the final resting place will help you find your way there. If you need the details for later, simply email or text them to a phone, or print them off to take with you.
