Historic Frazer mausoleum with a domed roof and cross, surrounded by trees under a blue sky

Reviving history: the Frazer Mausoleum restoration project

Metropolitan Memorial Parks

9 May 2025

Standing more than 10 metres tall, the Frazer Mausoleum has been a defining landmark within Rookwood General Cemetery’s historic landscape for over 130 years. Designed by British architect Maurice B. Adams and completed in 1894, the mausoleum is a rare example of High Victorian Byzantine Gothic architecture—featuring a domed roof, bronze entry doors, intricate stained-glass windows, Pyrmont sandstone and extraordinary alabaster sarcophagi.

Originally commissioned by Irish-born merchant John Frazer, the structure served as the final resting place for seven members of the Frazer family. However, after being vacated in 1974, the mausoleum suffered decades of weather damage and neglect.

Preserving heritage for future generations

Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP), in close partnership with the Friends of Rookwood, and supported by the NSW Government, undertook a significant heritage conservation project to restore the mausoleum to its former grandeur.

stained glass window with sun streaming through creating a reflection on the wall

Restoration and conservation works

MMP's talented heritage stonemason team carried out extensive structural and cosmetic works, including:

Lime mortar stone repairs and stone conservation.

Window restoration, protection and weatherproofing.
Restoration of the three alabaster sarcophagi and inscription plaques.

This project was guided by a Conservation Management Plan and implemented using professional heritage methodology—ensuring authenticity, historical integrity and long-term preservation. A 15-month period of work on the mausoleum spanned from July 2023 through October 2024.

Frazer Mausoleum restoration timeline

2023-2024 restoration timeline of Frazer Mausoleum.

The official reopening—a moment of pride and celebration for all involved —was held in October 2024.

Our heritage team was building toward this project for 14 years. It was amazing to be able to bring this remarkable structure back to life, to conserve and restore it as a landmark in Rookwood. It is a special place, and has now been preserved for everyone, as part of our shared history.

- Sach Killam, Heritage Specialist

Shortlisted for the 2025 National Trust (NSW) of Australia Heritage Awards

The project has received well-deserved recognition by being shortlisted for the 2025 National Trust of Australia (NSW) Heritage Awards (Built Conservation), a prestigious program that celebrates excellence in heritage conservation across the state.

This shortlist nomination acknowledges not only the architectural significance of the Frazer Mausoleum, but also the careful and respectful conservation work that has brought new life to one of Australia’s most important Victorian-era heritage sites.