About us

Community is at the heart of everything we do.

OUR STORY

Potager A Kitchen Garden

A Story Rooted in Passion, Place and Legacy

We’re often asked – how did Potager come to be, in the quiet hills of Carool?

It began back in June 2006, when Gareth and Pete were visiting Gareth’s family farm in Northern Ireland. Looking out over the green fields, inspired and dreaming, they both imagined what it would be like to own a place in the country. When they returned home to Australia, they hit the real estate trail – and soon found themselves drawn to Northern NSW.

While Carool didn’t make much sense as a weekender for two Sydney-based professionals, it made perfect sense as a place to build a life. It was close to Pete’s family on the Gold Coast, and the sub-tropical climate was infinitely more appealing than heading south.

By 2009, they made the bold decision to leave Sydney behind and relocate permanently. When they told their friends, the reactions ranged from shock and disbelief to support and a solid dose of “good on you!” – and now, many of those friends have since followed and moved to the region too.

The dream to create something special on the property was always there. Potager – A Kitchen Garden became the beautiful manifestation of that dream. Gareth brought with him years of cooking experience from Australia and abroad; Pete brought his expertise in marketing – and his love for dining and creating memorable experiences. Together, they built something remarkable.

In October 2019, Gareth sadly passed away after a brief battle with cancer, aged just 47. His spirit remains deeply woven into the walls and gardens of Potager. Every dish served and every guest welcomed is part of the legacy he helped create – and that legacy continues.

From June 2025, Potager begins a new chapter as part of The Hinterland Collection – a group of exceptional venues committed to curating meaningful experiences framed by nature, food, and connection. We are honoured to carry Gareth and Pete’s vision forward with care, respect and love.

Thank you for being part of the Potager story. We can’t wait to welcome you.

— Donna & John Spedding

The Hinterland Collection

Supporting locals

Potager has become an integral part of the community since opening in 2016. We actively support local Northern Rivers businesses as we showcase this beautiful region we live in.

You will dine on tables made by local craftspeople and mostly on plates made by local potters. You’ll eat vegetables, fruit and herbs from our garden & from other local businesses and producers. You’ll eat mushrooms from just down the road in Urliup. Seafood from Northern Rivers Seafood or from Australian Bay Lobster in Chinderah. Meat from Byronshire. Or Fair Game Wild Caught Venison.

AWARDS

The Northern Rivers Most Awarded Dining Destination.

We’re extremely proud of the fact that we’ve won more awards than any other restaurant in the Northern Rivers. This would not have been possible without the support of our wonderful customers.

Chefs Hats

Readers Choice, Modern Australian, Northern Rivers

Tourism Awards

Trip Advisor

“Best of the Best” places us in the top 1% of restaurants worldwide based on customer feedback

NSW Business Chamber Awards

Australian Enterprise Awards

Potager News

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