30/07/2026
Did You Know?
Last week we explored Cornelian Bay's beginnings as Farm Bay. This week, we're uncovering another fascinating chapter in the bay's history—through the remarkable people whose stories live on at Cornelian Bay Cemetery.
Established in 1873, Cornelian Bay Cemetery now occupies part of the land where the original Government Farm once stood. Beyond its peaceful grounds lie the stories of people whose lives helped shape Tasmania's history.
Sir Henry Jones (1862–1926)
Known as the "Knight of the Jam Tin", Sir Henry Jones began his career at just 12 years old, pasting labels onto jam tins at George Peacock's factory on Hobart's waterfront. He later purchased the business, created the iconic IXL brand—based on his motto, "I excel in everything I do"—and built it into one of Australia's most successful food companies.
John Blundstone (c. 1831–1895)
John Blundstone arrived in Hobart from England and founded John Blundstone & Son in 1870. His small boot-making business became one of Tasmania's most recognised brands, with Blundstone boots now worn in more than 70 countries around the world.
Joe Darling (1870–1946)
One of Australia's greatest early cricketers, Joe Darling captained Australia on three Ashes tours of England and became the first left-handed Australian to score a Test century. After his sporting career, he settled in Tasmania and later served in the Tasmanian Parliament.
Martin Cash (c. 1808–1877)
Perhaps Tasmania's most famous bushranger, Martin Cash became known for his daring escapes from Port Arthur. Unlike many bushrangers, he was eventually pardoned, settled in Glenorchy as a farmer and wrote one of Australia's earliest convict memoirs.
Mary Maria Hayes (1779–1843)
Mary Maria Hayes arrived in Tasmania as a convict after being sentenced for receiving stolen goods in London's underbelly. Refusing to let her past define her, she went on to establish the Derwent Hotel before later owning and operating the Hope and Anchor Tavern, becoming one of Hobart's earliest businesswomen.
It's incredible to think that behind the beautiful grounds of Cornelian Bay lie the stories of entrepreneurs, sporting legends, pioneers and remarkable people whose lives helped shape Tasmania's history.
Whose story would you like us to explore next?
