The Great Achievers – Westpark Jewish Cemetery

Cemeteries are fascinating repositories of history and the Jewish section of Westpark is packed with notable personalities. On this unique tour, we’ll be paying our respects at the graves of some of Johannesburg’s finest - men and women who left an indelible mark on the city, country and beyond. 

Led by the inimitable Flo Bird, the tour includes the final resting places of Helen Suzman - life-long fighter against Apartheid; Johnny Clegg - who bridged the racial divide through music; Philip Tobias, who drew world-wide attention to the Cradle of Humankind at the Sterkfontein Caves; Taubie Kushlick the first lady of the theatre; famous author Sarah Gertrude Millin, and many others. 

Along the way, we’ll also learn a bit about Jewish burial customs, such as the placing of stones on a grave and why every Jew is buried in a simple pine box - no matter what your achievements in life.

The tour doesn’t cover a great distance as most of the graves are clustered in two sections. Please bring water and wear a hat if the sun’s out. Gentlemen are requested to wear a hat (or wear a yarmulke) as a sign of respect. Secure parking is available within the cemetery grounds. Meet at the Ohel building, directly in front as you enter the gates.