Creative Harvest 2026: A Fresh New Format, Six Inspiring Workshops & an Afternoon Tea to Remember

Next year, we’re embracing a new rhythm. Instead of our traditional open edible-garden weekend, Creative Harvest 2026 will feature a beautifully curated Creative Harvest Afternoon Tea Party on Sunday 25 January, paired with six hands-on workshops across the same weekend.

👉Take me to tickets!

This new format allows us to keep the heart of Creative Harvest beating strong while making the event more sustainable for our volunteers, our gardens, and our community. You can read more about the reasons behind the change in our latest update, but what matters most is this: the Creative Harvest spirit is thriving, and we can’t wait to share this next chapter with you.

🌿 Sustainably Styled. Locally Sourced. Community Made.

Our Afternoon Tea Party at Yarragon Public Hall will showcase the best of Gippsland’s makers, growers, and food traditions. Expect handmade cordials, relishes, jams, Gippsland Jersey cream and milk, savoury bites by Gippsland Food & Wine, sweet treats from regional artisans, and scones and slices baked with love by the CWA Drouin Night Hawks.

True to our ethos of reuse and resourcefulness, the hall will be styled using mismatched crockery, op-shop treasures, repurposed vessels, and preloved tableware—a warm and welcoming expression of sustainability in action.

🌱 Sustainable Conversations: Our Afternoon Tea Panel

A highlight of the Afternoon Tea will be Sustainable Conversations, a panel hosted by the Baw Baw Sustainability Network. Together, our speakers will explore how everyday sustainability, home gardening, seasonal food traditions, and community wisdom shape the way we live, create, and connect.

This is a conversation designed to spark ideas and inspire simple, meaningful change at home. Expect personal stories, practical insights, and a reminder of why local knowledge, creativity, and sustainable choices matter more than ever.

Meet our panellists:

• Helen Timbury: Gippsland printmaker creating vibrant, nature-inspired linocuts that encourage connection to the environment.

• Caroline Parker: Herbalist, forager, and author passionate about helping people grow, cook with, and heal using everyday medicinal plants.

• Paul Winfield: Permaculture educator and environmental manager dedicated to practical, community-driven approaches to sustainable growing and land care.

  
  

🥑 Six Creative Harvest Workshops: Learn, Make, Grow

Across the weekend, we’re proud to present six hands-on workshops, each offering an opportunity to learn new skills, connect with local creatives, and deepen your relationship with homegrown living. Here’s what’s on offer for 2026:

Seed Saving and Sowing: Level Up Your Skills

Perfect for gardeners wanting to take seed stewardship further—learn how to save, store, and sow seeds successfully for thriving harvests across the seasons.

All Things Avocado: Growing Avocados in Our Climate Zone

Discover what it takes to cultivate avocados in Gippsland conditions, including variety selection, grafting techniques, and care tips.

Using a Kenzan to Create Unique & Sustainable Floral Arrangements

A beautiful introduction to the Japanese floral art of kenzan arranging—grounded in seasonality, sustainability, and mindful design.

Fabulous Fermentation: The Magic of Sourdough

An uplifting workshop that explores the world of wild fermentation and teaches you how to bake your own sourdough from scratch.

From Garden to Glow: Herbs for Your Bathroom Cabinet

Learn to transform garden botanicals into natural, homemade bathroom staples such as herbal infusions, creams, deodorants, and more.

The Little Press: An Introduction to Drypoint Etching

Explore drypoint etching in a creative, hands-on printmaking workshop that celebrates texture, linework, and sustainable artistry.

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🎩 Dress for the Occasion

Guests at the Afternoon Tea Party are invited to dress in their finest afternoon-tea attire, with prizes awarded for:

• Best Headwear

• Best Recycled/Upcycled Outfit

• Best Dressed Duo

• Best Overall Look

  
  

We can’t wait to see the creativity that blossoms!

🌱 Join Us for Creative Harvest 2026

Creative Harvest 2026 is proudly supported by Baw Baw Shire Council, the Baw Baw Sustainability Network, Gippsland Jersey, Gippsland Food & Wine, and returning major sponsor Merry People.

This year’s event is smaller, more intimate, and deeply community-focused—a celebration of what makes Gippsland’s creative and growing culture so special. We’d love you to be part of it.

👉Limited tickets. Grab yours now!

Why Attend Creative Harvest?

Attending Creative Harvest is not just about enjoying delicious food and engaging workshops. It’s about connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for sustainable living and creativity. You’ll leave feeling inspired and equipped with new skills to enhance your own garden or creative projects.

The Importance of Community

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget the power of community. Events like Creative Harvest remind us of the importance of coming together, sharing knowledge, and supporting local artisans. Let’s celebrate our unique culture and the beauty of our surroundings.

Final Thoughts

As we prepare for Creative Harvest 2026, I encourage you to embrace this opportunity. Join us for a weekend filled with learning, laughter, and connection. Together, we can cultivate a more sustainable future while enjoying the rich tapestry of Gippsland’s creative landscape.

So, mark your calendars for Sunday 25 January and get ready for an unforgettable experience!