A dream property in a pristine environment

High Falls Farm

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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The creek provides for natural air-conditioning during the hot months and attracts amazing butterflies and bird life. Image: supplied

A very special property will go under the hammer on June 18. An idyllic home and business you don’t see very often.

Located in a beautiful valley, High Falls Farm is bordered by a wide clear creek and pristine environment.

Originally a tropical fruit farm with rare exotic and endemic flora, over the years High Falls Farm has evolved into a beautiful open air restaurant, with modern commercial kitchen facilities.

The farm was named after the waterfall in the adjacent soaring mountain range, visible on the scenic drive into the valley. And according to the current owners, Lynn and Andrew LeCarpentier, the waterfall is spectacular during the wet season.

Mrs LeCarpentier said that the farm was started back in the early 1980’s by councillor and farmer Ron Berry. “His idea was originally to showcase all the newly available exotic tropical fruits arriving in the Far North of Australia.

“The display orchard still boasts this amazing array of tropical fruits. The two acres of gardens complement the beauty of the Whyanbeel area, a pleasant 35 minute drive from Port Douglas into the valley, with swaying cane fields and mountain backdrop.”

 Successful restaurant

High Falls Farm rapidly developed into a thriving business with fruit tours and tastings.

“Next came the development of the restaurant, wife Ronda Berry saw the potential for fine dining with music and she spared no expense when it came to the building of the restaurant using local timbers, the 100-seat timber deck area with its grand piano stage and the kitchen was no exception,” Mrs LeCarpentier said.

“The restaurant is open air, maximising the absolute riverfront position. Dining here is a fabulous rainforest experience, immersed in the sounds and ambiance of the river and the tropical surroundings. The licensed restaurant seats 100 and features polished hardwood flooring, and several outdoor seating options. The restaurant has been operating successfully for the past 38 years.”

Kurt Freitas, sales agent for the Property Shop Port Douglas, said that coming from a hospitality background he loves the massive potential this property holds. “It is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild; think microbrewery, events, weddings, tour groups, adventure playground.”

First time up for sale in 18 years

Mr and Mrs LeCarpentier have owned the farm for 18 years and have enjoyed every minute of it.

“Our story began in 2003 when we were dining at High Falls with friends knowing the business had been put up for sale. We chatted and laughed over dinner about different ideas for the property. My idea was to turn it into a home.

“The very next day we made an offer and that dream became reality, our adventure had begun. Luckily my husband Andrew is a master of all trades, transforming a part of the dining area alongside the river into a very comfortable 2-bedroom home for ourselves and our daughter. Then came extensions and more sheds and gardens till finally our projects were finished.

“In the 18 years we have lived on the property we have had some special moments from our daughter’s wedding set in the garden and many more weddings and events with lighting in the orchard at night this place is turned into a magical wonderland.

“In conclusion we have had the most wonderful relaxed way of life living beside the ever-flowing Whyanbeel river. But there comes a time when you know. It’s time to hand
over the reins to a new owner for them to make their dreams come true and start their own
story at High Falls. The potential is there and all the hard work has been done to let your imagination run wild.”

The property is going to Auction on Sat 18 June, 10am at Property Shop Four Mile. For more information about the property see here.

High Falls Farm includes a beautiful open air restaurant with views over the pristine Whyanbeel creek. Image: supplied
High Falls Farm rapidly developed into a thriving business with fruit tours and tastings. Image: supplied

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