Bundaberg

Bundaberg, officially known as Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, is a globally renowned Australian soft drink brand celebrated for its distinctive brewed soft drinks. Unlike conventional sodas made with artificial flavorings, Bundaberg uses a natural fermentation process that delivers deep, rich, and refreshing flavors with remarkable complexity.

The Beginning of Bundaberg

The story of Bundaberg began in 1968, when the Fleming familyNeville Fleming and his wife, along with their son Cliff and daughter-in-law Leepurchased a small local beverage business called Electra Breweries (Bundaberg) Pty Ltd. They transformed it into Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, focusing on crafting naturally brewed beverages.

The company is based in Bundaberg, a riverside town along the Burnett River in Queensland, Australia. Founded in 1867, the towns name combines Bunda, after the Indigenous people of the region, with berg, a Saxon word meaning town. Bundaberg has long been an important port and agricultural hub, particularly for the sugar industry, which played a key role in supporting the growth of the local beverage trade.

From a Small Brewery to a National Favorite

In its early years, the company primarily focused on producing Ginger Beer. Cliff and Lee personally traveled around the region, selling their drinks, building relationships, and learning from customers. This grassroots approach proved successful, helping Bundaberg gain recognition not only locally but also across wider regions.

The Secret to Bundabergs Signature Flavor

Bundabergs success lies in its commitment to natural ingredients sourced from local farmers, such as fresh ginger and cane sugar. Each drink is brewed using a traditional fermentation process that takes up to seven days, allowing flavors to develop naturally. This brewing philosophy is captured in the brands motto: Brewed to Be Better.

Passing the Torch and Expanding Horizons

A major turning point came in 1985, when Neville and his wife retired, passing full leadership to Cliff and Lee. Under the second generation, the company flourished and began expanding its product range to include flavors such as Root Beer, Lemon Lime & Bitters, Pink Grapefruit, Creaming Soda, and various fruit-based drinks. Still, Ginger Beer remained Bundabergs flagship product.

Growing Beyond Australia

By the early 2000s, Bundaberg began exporting internationally, and by 2006, its products were sold in more than 30 countries, including New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Singapore.

In 2018, Bundaberg entered into a partnership with PepsiCo, expanding its distribution across the United Statesan important milestone in reaching global markets.

The Bundaberg Barrel A Destination for Fans

In 2005, the company opened The Bundaberg Barrel, a visitor attraction located next to the brewery. The site offers interactive tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the brands traditional brewing process firsthand. It later received the Travellers Choice Award from Tripadvisor.

Awards and Global Recognition

In 2022, Bundaberg was named Queensland Exporter of the Year at the Premier of Queenslands Export Awards, recognizing its contribution to international trade and its vital role in Queenslands economy.

The following year, 2023, marked another major milestone. Bundaberg opened its new Master Brewery in its hometown to expand production capacity and meet growing global demand. In the same year, the company was also inducted into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame, honoring its long-standing impact on the states industry.

In 2024, both Cliff Fleming and Bundabergs Master Brewer were appointed as Members of the Order of Australia (AM)one of the nations highest honorsfor their outstanding contributions to business and the Bundaberg community.

Innovation for the Future

In 2025, Bundaberg began a new chapter by launching the Refreshingly Light product linelow-sugar beverages designed to meet the needs of health-conscious consumers. The first flavors in this range include Raspberry & Pomegranate, Apple & Lychee, and Lemon & Watermelon. This expansion demonstrates the brands ongoing commitment to innovation and adapting to evolving consumer preferences.

You can find Bundaberg products at Rimping Supermarket.