Finding a Picton Ghost

Finding a Picton Ghost can be easy. It all depends on your belief system. The town has been referred to as Australia’s Most Haunted Town by more than one media outlet.

The late historian Liz Vincent believed the town was haunted and even created the Picton Ghost Hunt. Sadly when Liz died the tours fizzled. Not because of bureaucracy as some would have you believe – it’s just that nobody so far has the pizzazz that Liz had.

Many of these places do not mention the history of their buildings on their websites. From my years knowing this area I have found there is more interest from outside of Picton than inside. I think the locals just brush it off. But the area is often spoken about and is well known on the ghost circuit. Many of these locations have been told to the Psychic Reporter first hand. And I have personally visited all of them.

Picton Anglican Cemetery

There have been many reports of child ghosts in this cemetery. It is a calm place especially at night. Some of the graves date back to the mid 19th century.  In 2005 a young Josh Webster shared the story about a short film they were shooting.  He said their main actor (another schoolboy) took off screaming in one scene – it was not in the script. When they caught up to him he was surprised to find his mates had not seen the black dog chasing him. They checked the film but no black dog was to be seen. Wiped the film – thought he was an idiot – and continued shooting. Some time later they learned of the ghost of the black dog that frequents the cemetery.

Wollondilly Shire Hall (Picton Town Hall)

The date on the front of the Hall shows 1915. But earlier parts of the building date back to the mid 1800’s. “Ted” is believed to haunt the hall and makes himself known to the local theatre group.  Liz Vincent’s funeral service was held in this hall.  Here is a recording of Liz talking about the Shire Hall.

 

Finding a Picton Ghost @ the Old Post Office

The old Post Office was built in 1892 and operated as a post office until 1994.  Ghosts? There are many stories of the front door opening and closing at all times – people swearing the door was locked but only to be found open again and again. The toilet door has a history of opening and closing on its own accord as well. The old building has the usual creaks and groans. It is a believed a man died in a bedroom on the top floor and his body was not discovered for few days afterwards. There is no mention of a ghost from him but it certainly puts the willies up the Council employees who now work in that office.

Antill Park Golf Club

Situated just out of Picton the main building of the Antill Park Golf Club is reputed to be haunted. In 2009 I spoke to some staff who talk of noises and footsteps at night. Some staff will not stay alone in the building and also refuse to go down to the old cellar.  Psychics hold events here from time to time.

 George IV Inn

This quaint old inn dates back to 1839 and is one of the oldest in Australia. There are many stories of ghosts at the George IV and a few of the rooms are believed to be haunted. I would image they are happy ghosts – the musicians keep the place lively.

Redbank Range Tunnel

This is also called the Picton Tunnel and Mushroom Range Tunnel. The tunnel has been out of use for near a century and has been the major focus of many ghost tours.  There are limited hours to visit the tunnel now and signs prohibit anyone walking through.

Redbank Church (formerly Wesleyan Chapel)

Built in 1857 the Redbank Church is now a private residence. There have been stories of a presence in the old Church. The adjoining graveyard is separated by a fence.  Are Ghosts Real is an interesting interview about this building.

A Ghost in Picton – Emily Bollard

Emily is Picton’s most famous ghost. Emily Bollard was killed in 1916 when struck by a train as she was walking through the Redbank Range Tunnel.  Here is a full story on Emily Bollard.

Deaths on the Road

Picton is located in the Wollondilly shire and sadly many deaths have occurred on the local roads.  You won’t drive far without seeing a Cross on the side of the road.

Picton Ghost Tours

The original tours with Liz Vincent closed. And from time to time psychics will visit the area and bring their entourage. Psychic readings are also held in various locations including the Antill Park Golf Course.  The Macarthur area is noted for ghosts but very few promote this.

If you’ve had success finding a Picton ghost I’d appreciate your contribution.