BUNDABERG HERITAGE TRAIL

Discover the Bundaberg Heritage Trail

Step into Bundaberg’s story, where history isn’t just remembered – it’s celebrated, lived and intertwined with the region’s dynamic present. The Bundaberg Heritage Trail is a self-guided journey that invites you to uncover the pioneering spirit, resilience and innovation of a region shaped by its people and their deep connection to the land.

Starting at the iconic Hinkler Hall of Aviation and concluding at the world-renowned Bundaberg Rum Distillery – although you can choose where to start and end the experience yourself – this trail connects you to the landmarks, stories and experiences that define Bundaberg. From the ingenuity of aviation pioneer Bert Hinkler to the craft of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, each stop reveals how the past and present come together to create a dynamic and adventurous community.

Perfect for culture enthusiasts, history buffs and families alike, the Bundaberg Heritage Trail offers a mix of interactive activities, guided tours and leisurely explorations. Follow a trail where every stop brings you closer to the heart of Bundaberg, experiencing a spirit that inspires and connects, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for this remarkable region.

Hinkler Hall of Aviation – Soaring through History

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, the Hinkler Hall of Aviation stands as a tribute to one of Bundaberg’s most celebrated figures: Bert Hinkler, the daring aviator who became the first to fly solo from England to Australia.

As you approach, the building’s striking architecture – an ingenious blend of glass and steel designed to evoke the shape of an aircraft wing – heralds the wonders waiting within. As you enter, you’re warmly welcomed by staff at the visitor information desk and gift shop. Whether you choose to explore independently or join a guided tour, be ready to experience the thrill of aviation’s golden era.

Your adventure begins in the J.A. (Lex) Rowland Gallery, home to the original white-winged Avro Baby aircraft. This remarkable plane, in which Hinkler set his 1921 record-breaking flight from Sydney to Bundaberg, captures the imagination and sets the stage for the incredible story ahead. Descriptive exhibits transport you back to the early 1900s, painting a vivid picture of the man behind the legend.

From there, move on to the Main Exhibition Hall, where history comes to life. Suspended replica aircraft soar above, while interactive exhibits, films and static displays explore Hinkler’s extraordinary achievements. Feel the thrill of flight through hands-on simulators – one that lets you glide like Bert over Mon Repos Beach, reliving the daring exploit that launched his career in a glider he made at the tender age of 19; and others that lets you fly like Bert in simulations of his flights under the Burnett traffic bridge, or over Bundaberg, Darwin or Southampton.

For a taste of the celebrity status Bert earned after his 1928 solo flight from England to Australia, admire the elegant 1926 Armstrong Siddeley touring vehicle in which Hinkler celebrated his triumphant homecoming parade through Brisbane.

The experience doesn’t end inside the main hall. Adjacent, set behind clipped lawns and shrubs, stands Hinkler House, Hinkler’s English home which he named Mon Repos, which was lovingly shipped brick by brick to Bundaberg and reconstructed. This two-storey curiosity exudes early 20th-century English charm, with its textured stucco walls, classic bay windows, a verandah that overlooks the Botanic Gardens and conservatory downstairs. Wander through the rooms with many of the original fixtures and furnishings, or enjoy a video retelling the house’s story if accessibility is a concern.

Hinkler Hall of Aviation is an inspiring journey back to the dawn of aviation history, offering visitors a chance to step into Bert Hinkler’s shoes and embrace the adventurous spirit that continues to define Bundaberg.

Getting There

Hinkler Hall of Aviation is located within the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens. From Bundaberg Central visitors may take bus number 607 or 621 to the Mount Perry Rd at Botanic Gardens stop. From there, it’s a 100m walk to Hinkler Hall of Aviation. We recommend using Translink’s Journey Planner to assist your travel plans. Alternatively Bundaberg Shuttle Buses and local taxis are also available.

Taribelang Bunda Cultural Tours: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow

The Taribelang Bunda Cultural Tour is a must for anyone keen to see Bundaberg through the eyes of its First Nations custodians. This unique and powerful journey hosted by Taribelang Elders, is where the ancient wisdom of the First Nations people meets the living heritage of the Bundaberg region. Your experience begins with a heartfelt “Yee’Gee”, a greeting in the Taribelang language, as you step into the Taribelang Bunda Designs & Tour office. Surrounded by traditional handmade artefacts and tools, you’re immersed in the cultural richness of the Taribelang people, or bunda, before the tour even begins.

This half-day, intimate exploration introduces you to the stories, traditions and truths of the Taribelang people, who have cared for this land for over 60,000 years. Guided by knowledgeable and welcoming hosts, you’ll travel in a comfortable minibus through sites of significance, learning the traditional names, histories and cultural importance of each stop.

One of the first stops, Baldwin Swamp, immerses you in the earthy aroma of tea tree and the shrieks of rainbow lorikeets. You’ll hear how this place once served as a vital resource for shelter, food and medicine for Taribelang Elders. The narrative unfolds further as you pass through Bundaberg landmarks like the East Water Tower, Millaquin Mill and the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, each layered with stories of innovation and resilience. But the tour does not ignore the darker chapters of colonial history, including blackbirding and its lasting impacts.

Reaching The Hummock, one of Bundaberg’s rare hills, you’ll take in sweeping views of the patchwork farmlands. While here, discover the craft behind traditional boomerangs, made from the wattle tree’s taproot, and enjoy a morning tea of native bush tucker – homemade damper paired with lilly pilly jam and bush tomato relish – a simple yet profound culinary experience connecting past and present.

As the tour weaves through Mon Repos and Kirby’s Wall, the natural beauty of the region intertwines with cultural stories of totems, environmental stewardship and traditional practices. At Kirby’s Wall, the gentle rustle of fig trees and the river breeze create a poignant atmosphere as you hear the painful history of Paddy’s Island, which offers a moment of reflection that underscores the importance of truth-telling.

Throughout the tour, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the connection between the Taribelang Bunda and their Country, learning how they lived in harmony with the land and its cycles. Every site visited and every story shared fosters understanding, respect and connection to the region’s long, rich and deep cultural history.

Offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, book your journey online or by phone, and prepare to connect with Country like never before, gaining an insight into the Bundaberg region that is honest, moving and transformative.

Getting There

Taribelang Bunda Cultural Tours begins from the Taribelang Bunda Designs & Tour office located at 67 Perry Street, Bundaberg. The nearest bus stop is Queen St near Perry St hail ’n’ ride (Stop ID 730190). This stop is serviced by routes 607, 621, 671 and 675 and is approximately 300m from the tour office. Please note that taking public transport involves crossing a busy road with limited pedestrian pathways.

Bundy Belle: Discover Bundaberg’s History from the Burnett River

Step aboard the Bundy Belle for a river journey that blends Bundaberg’s rich history with the serene beauty of the Burnett River. As the gentle breeze carries the scent of saltwater and the river laps softly at the hull, you’ll be transported to a world where past and present meet.

The regular 2.5-hour commentary tour begins in the roomy, enclosed cabin with wide windows that frame the river’s sparkling waters. Here, your knowledgeable skipper weaves captivating tales of Bundaberg’s colourful history, from its sugar-producing roots to its maritime legacy.

Cruising downstream, marvel at landmarks like the towering chimneys of the Millaquin Mill, the birthplace of Bundaberg Rum, and the industrial hum of the Bulk Sugar Terminal. As you approach the marina, you’ll see an array of fishing trawlers, ocean-going yachts and rugged vessels, all symbols of Bundaberg’s enduring connection to the sea.

Step onto the upper viewing deck for a breath of fresh air and unobstructed views of lush sugarcane fields and the tranquil bushland that line the riverbanks. Capture stunning photos from the lower front deck or simply submit to the gentle rhythm of the river as you sip complimentary tea or coffee. For those in the mood, the on-board licensed bar offers an array of beverages to enjoy as you revel in the scenery. Passengers are welcome to bring their own snacks.

Accessible to all, the Bundy Belle features a wheelchair-friendly vessel and a comfortable environment for every guest. The commentary cruise is both informative and relaxing, with the option to conclude your adventure with a meal at nearby Grunskes Seafood Restaurant. Alternatively, book the three-hour Bundy Belle Fish & Chips Cruise, boarding at Riverside Parklands Pontoon, whose price includes a fish and chips meal as well as live music on the return journey.

Let the Burnett River guide you through Bundaberg’s heart, where every ripple tells a story, and the skipper knows them all! Book your experience with Bundy Belle online or via phone, and get ready to see the region from an entirely new perspective.

Getting There

Unfortunately, there are no public transport stops within 500 metres of the Bundy Belle’s departure points at Grunskes by the River Seafood Market and Restaurant or Riverside Parklands Pontoon. Taxi or rideshare are recommended for those who are not self-driving.

Bundaberg Rum Distillery: The Spirit of Cane Country

Arriving at the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, you may hear the distant rumble of a cane train delivering freshly cut sugarcane, and, as you enter, the air becomes thick with the sweet aroma of molasses. This is the birthplace of an Australian icon, situated in the heart of Bundaberg’s cane fields and resonant with the energy of over 135 years of history and craftsmanship.

Your journey begins in the Bundaberg Rum Museum, where towering oak barrels stand as sentinels of the past, telling the story of master blenders, innovation and the evolution of Bundaberg Rum. Interactive scent displays and video exhibits bring these stories to life, allowing you to experience the raw and refined stages of rum production.

Step deeper into the heart of the distillery on a guided tour and learn about the process that transforms Bundaberg’s freshest molasses into world-class rum. Your expert guide will reveal the fascinating details of clarification, fermentation, distillation and maturation in the lengthy process of creating one the world’s favourite rums.

For those eager to take their experience to the next level, the Blend Your Own Rum Experience offers the chance to become a rum master yourself. With exclusive access to rums aged in port, sherry and bourbon barrels, you’ll create a custom blend to bottle and take home as a unique souvenir of your visit, with your recipe kept on file so you can reorder your custom creation anytime. This exclusive experience includes both the museum and distillery tours, along with two complimentary tastings from the bar, making it the ultimate celebration of rum craftsmanship.

Whether you’re a rum aficionado or a curious explorer, the distillery’s tasting room offers something for every palate. From Banana Toffee Liqueur to Salted Caramel and the iconic Spiced Rum, each flavour showcases the creativity and passion behind Bundaberg Rum.

Proudly rooted in Bundaberg, the distillery is not just a hub of craftsmanship but a long-standing cornerstone of the local community, promoting sustainable practices and supporting local agriculture. As you sip, swirl and learn, you’ll understand why Bundaberg is lovingly known as “Rum City”. A visit to the Bundaberg Rum Distillery is a sensory-rich experience where history, flavour and innovation blend seamlessly, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for this legendary Australian spirit.

Getting There

The closest bus stop is on Princess St at Cross St, serviced by routes 608 and 609, with a kilometre walk to the distillery and limited pathway access and pedestrian crossings. Taxi or rideshare services are therefore recommended for those not self-driving.

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Barrel Tour: A Refreshing Finale to Your Journey

The Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Barrel Tour is a sparkling celebration of flavour, craftsmanship and tradition. From the moment you arrive, the sight of the iconic barrel-shaped building sets the tone for an experience that’s as bubbly as the brews it celebrates. The curved wooden panels of the structure blend tradition with modern flair, echoing the care and innovation that goes into every drink.

Step through the sleek glass doors into a space where smooth timber finishes and an arched ceiling create a warm, inviting atmosphere. At the heart of The Barrel lies a curved counter, where friendly staff are ready to guide you into a world of brewing mastery. Begin your adventure with a self-guided tour, an interactive exploration of the brewing process behind Bundaberg’s 13 distinctive drinks.

The tour engages all the senses, with a lit-up floor featuring displays of the fruits used in Bundaberg brews guiding guests towards the “smellography” station, where visitors press buttons and try to guess the aromas of the various fruits that give Bundaberg drinks their signature flavours. Before tasting them for yourself. Immerse yourself in the art of brewing with a captivating 360-degree video that reveals the secrets behind Bundaberg’s award-winning creations.

The highlight of your visit awaits at the tasting bar, where the entire range of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks is ready for you to sip and savour. From the sharp, tangy kick of ginger beer to the sweet, creamy delight of Burgundee Creaming Soda and the refreshing zest of traditional lemonade, every flavour offers a new delight. You are also invited to create your own six-pack of favourites to take home and keep the experience alive.

Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, the Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Barrel Tour is a fitting finale to your Bundaberg adventure – a place where tradition, innovation and a passion for flavour come together in every sip.

Getting There

Take bus 608 or 609 to the Bargara Road at Bundaberg Brewed Drinks stop (Stop ID 730124), which is located directly in front of The Barrel.

Accessibility 

The Bundaberg Heritage Trail strives to provide an inclusive experience for all visitors, but accessibility varies across the Trail’s different locations. All stops are partially wheelchair accessible – with facilities and pathways varying by location – but accessible bathrooms are available somewhere at each stop. Service dogs are, of course, welcome. For tailored assistance or to confirm accessibility requirements, we encourage guests to contact individual locations in advance: your comfort and enjoyment are our priority!

Hinkler Hall of Aviation

There are two wheelchair-accessible parking bays and a convenient drop-off zone near the main entrance for easy and practical access for visitors with access needs. Within the Hall, smooth flooring and plenty of clutter-free space between exhibits and displays make for easy manoeuvrability for visitors using mobility aids, as well as those who are blind or have low vision.

There’s a wheelchair-accessible toilet in the main hall and another next to the nearby Café 1928. 

For those unable to physically visit the two-level Hinkler House, a virtual tour brings the historical venue to life, making it accessible to everyone.

Visitors with sensory sensitivities will appreciate the low, mood lighting within the Hall itself, while the surrounding gardens offer peace and solitude. 

Taribelang Bunda Cultural Tours

There’s no designated accessible parking, but arrangements can be made by contacting the tour team. Accessible bathrooms with right-hand transfer toilets are available at the Baldwin Swamp stop and Heathwood Park. 

Parts of the tour cross soft sand and rocky terrain, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility. Their minibus is not wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair users and guests with limited mobility should contact the team to discuss potential accommodations.

Bundy Belle

Accessible parking is available in the main car park near the Grunskes by the River entrance on Petersen Street. Boarding at Grunskes pontoon requires guests to negotiate some stairs. Staff are happy to offer assistance, but guests with limited mobility are encouraged to call the office to determine which pontoon is most suitable for their needs. Wheelchair users can board only at the Riverside Parklands Pontoon and should contact the office when booking .Riverside Parklands pontoon has accessible parking spots close to the River Cruz Cafe, which is located at the top of the ramp heading down to the Bundy Belle pontoon.

Accessible bathrooms are available at Grunskes by the River, as well as on board the vessel.

Bundaberg Rum Distillery

Accessible parking bays are conveniently located near all main buildings, with smooth concrete pathways ensuring easy access. Inside the facility, an accessible bathroom is available at the rear of the Retail Building. Tours are accessible with modifications available to meet individual needs since this is a multilevel facility with no lift access. Ramps with tactile indicators and other accessible features ensure that all guests can participate fully in the experience without missing any of the highlights. Service dogs are welcome, with a designated grassy area in the public carpark for their toileting needs. 

Anyone who is accompanying a guest with government-issued Companion Cards is eligible for complimentary admission. Additionally, staff have received specialised accessibility training to provide support and assistance throughout your visit.

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Barrel Tour

The entire tour is wheelchair accessible, with all activities taking place on a single level. There are accessible parking bays located at the rear of the Barrel, offering easy access to the main entrance and check-in area. An accessible bathroom is located towards the back of the retail area, on the right after passing through the glass doors. 

Service dogs are welcomed at the Barrel, although there are no nearby grassy areas for toileting. The facility also features tactile indicators on EFTPOS machines to assist guests who are blind or living with low vision.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, a quieter area is available near the rear of the building, close to the bathrooms. 

Staff have received accessibility training and are ready to assist visitors with specific needs.