Bundaberg Brew Drinks
Business Description
Queensland’s Iconic Craft Soft Drinks
Bundaberg Brewed Drinks is a beloved Australian family-owned company renowned for its premium, craft-brewed non-alcoholic beverages. Best known for its signature Ginger Beer, the brand has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of generations with its commitment to quality, real ingredients, and traditional brewing methods. Based in Bundaberg, Queensland — the same region famous for its sugar cane and rum — Bundaberg Brewed Drinks turns local produce into refreshing, full-flavoured soft drinks enjoyed across Australia and exported to over 60 countries worldwide.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Success
The company traces its roots to 1960 when it started as a small bottling and fermenting business in Bundaberg. In 1968, the Fleming family (Cliff and Lee Fleming along with Cliff’s parents) acquired it, then known as Electra Breweries. They ran it as a true family operation, with mother, father, son, and daughter all involved.
In 1995, the business rebranded to Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and introduced its iconic “Brewed to Be Better” philosophy. This emphasis on genuine brewing — rather than simply mixing concentrates — set it apart. Under the leadership of John McLean (Cliff and Lee’s son-in-law) as Managing Director, the company has grown significantly while staying true to its Bundaberg home. Key milestones include a major partnership with PepsiCo for U.S. distribution (2018), the opening of a state-of-the-art Master Brewery in 2023, and inductions into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame. Founder Cliff Fleming was also awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2024.
The Brewing Difference: Real Ingredients, Traditional Methods
What makes Bundaberg Brewed Drinks special is the meticulous brewing process. For their flagship Ginger Beer (and variants like Diet and Spiced), they use locally grown ginger and cane sugar, brewing it over three days for a bold, authentic flavour. The full range includes classics like Sarsaparilla, Lemon Lime & Bitters, Burgundee Creaming Soda, and more modern offerings such as Tropical Mango, Passionfruit, and the lighter “Refreshingly Light” series with reduced sugar.
Limited releases, seasonal spiced ginger beer, and collaborations (e.g., with Whittaker’s chocolate or Kettle chips) keep the brand fresh and exciting. All products emphasise real fruit, minimal artificial additives, and that signature brewed taste that sets them apart from standard soft drinks.
The Bundaberg Barrel: A Refreshing Visitor Experience
No visit to Bundaberg is complete without stopping at **The Bundaberg Barrel**, the brand’s dedicated visitor centre located at 147 Bargara Road, Bundaberg East. This iconic attraction (one of Queensland’s “Big Things”) offers an immersive, family-friendly dive into the world of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks.
The Barrel combines education, interactivity, and plenty of tasting opportunities. Visitors can explore a self-guided gallery tour featuring engaging displays on the brewing process, the company’s history, and the secrets behind each flavour. Hands-on elements include sensory activities, such as a “smellography” wall where you guess flavours by scent, and interactive exhibits that bring the brewing story to life.
The highlight for most is the guided tasting session, where you sample a wide selection of the range. Tickets (around $20 for adults) typically include the gallery experience and a take-home 6-pack of your favourite flavours chosen after tasting — perfect for sharing the Bundaberg experience back home. Kids’ options are available at a lower price (excluding the take-home pack).
Visitor Information:
– Hours: Monday–Saturday 9am–4:30pm;
– Sunday and most public holidays 10am–3pm: (closed on major holidays like Christmas Day).
– Location: Right near the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, making it easy to combine both iconic visits in one day.
Bookings are recommended, especially during peak times. Book via the official Barrel website for guided tastings and self-guided options. Click & Collect for products is also available.
The Bundaberg Barrel has earned consistent praise, including Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, for its welcoming staff, great value, and engaging format that appeals to all ages — from families to soft drink enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Ginger Beer or discovering the range for the first time, The Bundaberg Barrel delivers a fun, informative, and thirst-quenching experience that celebrates Queensland’s brewing heritage. Pop in, learn the story, taste the difference, and leave with a 6-pack (or more) of your new favourites.
