“For decades the Cygnet Cannery was the bustling centre of the Cygnet community and the local economy.”
Our
story.
The Port Cygnet Cannery is no longer operating.
THEN.
Our building was once a thriving Apple Cannery and remains a significantly important part of the history of the Huon Valley region. Back in 1938, frustrated apple farmers wanted to make a better and more sustainable living. The prices being being offered by private processing companies were well below the cost of production. The apple farmers took action in their own hands and called a public meeting at Cygnet Town Hall. The local government offered them to help finance an independent processing company if 100 farmers each put in 10 pounds. Within 3 days 100 farmers had signed up and the Cygnet Co-operative Canning Society was born.
In season up to 100 people worked there, packing and processing fruit (namely apple and pears) for export from the Port Cygnet wharves to the United Kingdom and Europe. These farmers successfully operated a thriving business on the site, while paying farmers double what they’d been previously paid. It transformed the cannery into the bustling heart of the local community and economy for over 80 years.
NOW.
In 2009 the property was purchased by Paul & Michelle Gilding. For years the cannery and surrounding property was developed and restored. Finally in 2019, the restaurant opened its doors to the public with a focus on sustainability and community. A stunning restoration of the original buildings resulted in creating a beautiful site which pays homage to the history of the Apple Cannery.
‘Nurturing the rich history of the Cannery and the community is core as we build our story. Every moment of the restoration process was undertaken with a deep respect to the history of this special place. We up-cycled machinery to build fireplaces, crates to make furniture and kegs to craft tables.’- Paul Gilding
The Port Cygnet Cannery is now a stunning restaurant and wedding & events space, serving great food sourced from their own Gardners Bay Farm and other local farmers.
FUTURE.
After 8 years, it’s time for new owners with new passion to continue the journey. Whoever they are and whatever their vision is, the impact of the physical transformation of this important site, with its rich cultural history and community significance, will be felt for decades to come.
The Huon Valley.
The Huon Valley is only 40 minutes drive from Tasmania’s capital city of Hobart in Southern Tasmania. Well known for its long history of apple growing, craft cider makers, boutique winemakers and homegrown produce.
The Valley’s incredible natural beauty includes the pristine Huon River and Far South coastline, mountain ranges, World Heritage-listed national parks, tall forests, caves and iconic bush walks.
Stay for a while and explore the many things to do. Visit - huonvalleytas.com
Cygnet.
Cygnet is a unique small country town situated in the beautiful Huon Valley. It is well known as a quaint, creative community in the picturesque Port Cygnet Bay. The town houses an abundance of craft shops, art studios, galleries, cafes, a museum and nooks and crannies you will love to explore. Situated an easy 15 minute drive from Huonville or 50 minutes from Hobart, you will enjoy the scenic drive in this picturesque area.
A drive meandering around the Cygnet Coast Road will offer you a unique perspective overlooking the Huon River, Egg Islands across to Franklin. You will have the chance to explore an abundance of wineries, berry farms and more of the Huon Valley’s artistic and creative talent.
