The Flower Room blooms with local pride

For more than 80-years, a cooperative of local cooks, gardeners and handcraft workers have been utilising The Flower Room in Mathers Lane to sell their goods.

Founded in 1942 by two sisters, Hally and Emma Bayly, The Flower Room is the oldest cooperative in Tasmania.

Flower Room member Ingrid Chapman said the organisation provided an outlet for community members to share what they had made or grown with others. 

“The appeal of our shop is knowing that everything is made with loving hands,” she said.

“Our members provide for the community, whether they are growing flowers, baking cakes or creating some handcrafted pieces, they are all committed to providing something unique for others.

“By supporting The Flower Room, customers are also supporting local producers and can have the satisfaction of knowing what they are purchasing is handmade or homegrown.”

Over the past eight decades The Flower Room has changed location four times but its goal has remained the same as it continues to promote the home industries of its members, who otherwise would not have a market for their produce.

Member Lillian Haines said although The Flower Room was almost at capacity with its membership, there was still a need for more volunteer help.

“We have space for more volunteers to come on board and help us sell some local produce, sprout their knowledge and contribute to a historic, meaningful and community-minded organisation,” she said.

The Flower Room is located in Mathers Lane Hobart, opposite Mathers House.

For more information, search and follow The Flower Room on Facebook.