Our Story.

The Cygnet Garden Markets is a much-loved community event held twice a year – every Spring and Autumn – in the heart of Cygnet, Tasmania. What began as a simple idea over a cup of tea has blossomed into a thriving celebration of gardens, plants, local produce, and community spirit.

In early 2020, as the world braced for the impact of COVID-19, three friends – Sally Port, Kate Flint, and Jo Thalmann – sat together, sharing their love of gardening and a vision for something uplifting. From that conversation, the first Cygnet Garden Market was born. Despite the uncertain times, the market quickly became a beacon of connection and joy for locals and visitors alike.

Having just celebrated its tenth market, the event is entirely volunteer-run and continues to grow in heart and purpose.

With every market, funds are raised to support local charities, and the town comes alive with colour, conversation, and community. Much needed money has been raised for multiple deserving charity groups including; Huon Refugee Support Group Inc, Cygnet Cares and Welcome Gardeners.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener, a curious beginner, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of plants and the joy of gathering with community, the Cygnet Garden Markets is a place to connect, discover, and grow – together.

Our Team.

The Cygnet Garden Markets is entirely run by volunteers! We have an amazing team who help on market day, and a core group who make up the Committee and make the Garden Markets happen.

Sally Port
President Committee / Event Organiser

I live in Cygnet. I’m married with three adult children. Since retiring from Steiner early childhood teaching I’ve become involved with a number of voluntary initiatives. I’m one of the founding members of the Cygnet Garden Market which had its inaugural market in 2020 at the back of the Old Bank. We are about to have our 10th market in Autumn 2025. It’s been so rewarding to see the market grow into the joyous community event that it has become. The fact that it is totally run by volunteers and, most importantly, is a community fundraiser seems to have developed a culture of kindness which I just love. I also love having the market right in the centre of the town so that it benefits the local businesses and really makes it feel that it is very much part of the community.

Ruth Geale

Treasurer Committee / Event Organiser

Ruth lives on 5 acres in the picturesque village of Woodbridge where she manages and extensive perennial garden, veggies, berries, orchard, chooks and all the things that make life beautiful and rewarding.

Her extensive background in environmental and agricultural land management means she has a passion for holistic management and a definite practical leaning. She is the committee member you'll see lugging bollards, directing traffic and co-ordinating FOGO bins!

However, she also has a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural environment and a perfect start to the day would not be complete without watching the sunrise over a cuppa in the garden.

Heather Bertoli

Secretary Committee / Event Organiser

I moved to cygnet in 2021 and have never looked back! I am a mum of two beautiful young children and have many years of experience managing music and arts events.

It feels great to put my event management, marketing and tech-skills to use is a way that can benefit the beautiful Cygnet community.

Julie Sanders

Public Officer Commitee / Event Organiser

Long time Cygnet area resident.

Previous nursery owner and market organiser.

Currently running a plant stall fortnightly at the Cygnet Market.

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Erika Willie

General Member Committee / Event Organiser

I am a keen gardener, living in the Huon Valley, and use Permaculture principles as my guide. I love working in my local community to promote community sustainability, healthy living, harmony and happiness.

Discover
Cygnet, Tasmania.

Tucked away in the lush Huon Valley, Cygnet is a vibrant and picturesque town about an hour’s drive south of Hobart. Surrounded by rolling hills, orchards, and the serene waters of Port Cygnet Bay, it’s a place where creativity thrives and community runs deep.

Cygnet is well-known for its rich soil, cool climate, and strong artistic heart. Over the years, it has become a beloved destination for artists, musicians, growers, and nature-lovers. The town’s streets are lined with heritage buildings, cosy cafés, eclectic boutiques, and galleries – all adding to its colourful, welcoming character.

The region is steeped in history, with strong Indigenous, maritime, and agricultural roots. Today, Cygnet continues to honour that legacy while nurturing a forward-thinking, environmentally-conscious community. Local food and sustainability are at the heart of life here, with an abundance of organic farms, handmade goods, and seasonal produce on offer.

Visitors come to Cygnet not just for the beauty of the landscape, but for the warmth of the people. Whether you’re sipping locally roasted coffee, exploring a weekend market, tasting fresh apples straight from the tree, or walking along the bay, Cygnet offers a peaceful, grounding experience – a true escape from the bustle of modern life.

From slow travel to spirited festivals, Cygnet is a town that celebrates connection – to land, to creativity, and to each other.

Things to do around the market.

When you’ve enjoyed the Cygnet Garden Market, here are some great ways to spend the rest of the day.

Stroll Through Burtons Reserve & Port Cygnet.

Scenic waterfront walks ideal for birdwatching, viewing moored yachts, and spotting black swans. For deeper exploration, visit the 103 ha Port Cygnet Conservation Area, a protected wetland habitat.

Enjoy our local food and produce.

Cygnet Old Bank Conservatory Garden Cafe
- A heritage bank turned café, serving fresh local fare amid a glasshouse garden.
Red Velvet Lounge
- Stylish café/bistro with European-influenced fare. Wood-fired bread and pizzas, brunch specials, indoor/outdoor seating, and Friday evening pizzas
Jacky’s Café
- Classic diner-style eats. With pies, breakfast plates, and strong coffee in a cosy corner near the main street .
The Port Hole Café
- A local favourite for all-day brunch, poke bowls, halloumi dishes, baked goods, and excellent lattes. Outdoor tables and friendly service.
Port Cygnet Pizza
- Tasty loaded stone baked Australian style pizzas and delicious house made desserts.
Ashcraig Farm Restaurant & Café
- Farm-based Thai-inspired meals using local, chemical-free produce. A hidden gem with consistently excellent reviews.
Cygnet Japanese Diner
- Delightful Japanese eats—sushi, teriyaki chicken with fries, and modern twists—highly rated by locals for flavour and authenticity.
IGA Everyday Farah’s
- Supermarket at 28 Mary Street.
Cygnet Takeaway
- Classic fish & chips, burgers, and informal lunch—ideal for a quick bite to take into the market .
Cygnet Hotel (Top Pub)
- Traditional pub meals in a warm, local atmosphere—great for a casual dinner or mid-day drink.

Cygnet Garden Larder:
- Specialty organic grocer for organic goods and bulk foods located in Mary Street.
Port Cygnet Grocer:
- Located at 6 Mary Street, offering all your grocery needs.
Heartfelt Wholefoods
- Ethical, fresh, organic, Australian grown products.
M&D Butchery Port Cygnet
- local independent butcher providing exceptional customer service and quality products and delicious hot pies and gluten free eats.
Cygnet Butchery
- discover some of the best butchery products available in Tasmania.

Explore local art and history.

Cygnet Living History Museum
- Housed in an old church, with exhibits on the convict era, timber history, and pioneer families.
Cygnet / Lovett Gallery (HAEG)
- Operated by the Huon Art Exhibitions Group, this vibrant gallery hosts rotating exhibitions and the annual Huon Art Awards. Open daily 10 am–4 pm at 9A Mary Street.
Huon Art -
- The largest gallery in the Huon Valley, featuring over 100 works—landscapes, birds, florals, quirky pieces—in various mediums. Located at 41 Mary Street; weekend & limited weekday hours.
Stanley’s Studio & Gallery (The Art of Richard Stanley)
- A gallery and studio by award‑winning Tasmania-based artist Richard Stanley. Set in Cygnet’s original 1905 general store on Channel Highway. Open Mon–Fri 10 am–5 pm, Sun 1–5 pm, Sat by appointment.
The Artisans Hand (Balfour House)
- Beautiful working gallery with a variety of artisans at work and selling their creations.

Shop at some of our unique stores.

Three Twigs
- Shop & café in the historic Old Bank building.
- Focus on natural-fibre fashion (linen, cotton, wool), homewares, gifts, jewellery.
Near and Far
- Fair Trade artisan gifts, clothing, homewares, toys.
- Eco‑friendly, handcrafted textiles, rugs, jewellery.
CUCKoO etc:
- Located in the old bank building, offers handcrafted homewares, soaps, woollens, craft supplies.
Sacred Space:
- Beautiful hand crafted treasures, natural clothing, ceremonial tools and plenty more.

Trove Antiques:
- Antiques and collectables.
Econiche Cygnet:
- Ethically focused business in the heart of Cygnet, Tasmania. Passionate about helping make sustainable living commonplace.
Lanique Designs
- Jewellery designed for you.
Connectmore
- Eclectic creations.
ReFind Cygnet
- Clothes, Books & Special Things.
Southern Swan
- Homeopathic medicines, creams & lotions prepared according to Anthroposophical principles. Home of an eclectic range of old and new books

Visit a vineyard or cider House.

Hartzview Vineyard
- Sample cool‑climate wines, fruit liqueurs, and stroll through heritage pickers’ huts.
Pagan Cider
- Craft ciders made from local apples, pears, and cherries; popular with tourists.

Undertake a walk or hike.

Coastal walk to Port Cygnet – Meander along the estuary, visible from Burton’s Reserve.
Hartz Mountains – From the 5‑min Waratah Lookout to the full 3.5‑hour summit walk.
Pelverata Falls – A Grade 3 hike in Snug Tiers, stunning in winter thanks to waterfalls.
Tahune AirWalk (Geeveston) – A canopy walkway adventure through ancient rainforest.

Drive and explore the scenic Huon Valley.

Take the Cygnet Coast Road, passing Berry farms, apple orchards, and riverside vistas.
Short drives to Ranelagh and Franklin for local shows, wineries, and South Bruny National Park trails.

Our Story.

Our Team.