Did you know that The Bundaberg Barrel is the only place in Australia where you can sample every available Bundaberg Brew?
Home of the iconic Bundaberg Ginger Beer, The Barrel has been delighting the guests from around the globe for two whole decades – and this week, the beloved tourism centre is raising a stubby and saying cheers to 20 years!
How it all began
The Barrel opened in 2005 when Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Founder and Master Brewer, Cliff Fleming, wanted to give consumers more than his famous craft brews, he wanted to give them an experience. From humble beginnings in 1968, Cliff and his family grew Bundaberg Brewed Drinks from a small regional operation into a household name – that is now found in over 60+ countries worldwide.
Beside the original Bargara Road Brewery where those brews came to life, The Barrel was purpose-built attraction celebrating Bundaberg’s craft, family heritage and community spirit. In 2018, the tourism centre received a fresh new look – creating the welcoming, interactive space guests know and love today. Every visit into the space is a chance to discover unique brewing rituals, learn about real ingredient inclusions, and see how the Bundaberg Brewed Drinks business has stayed true to its roots.
Opening day
The Bundaberg Barrel officially opened on November 18, 2005, led by Master Brewer, Cliff Fleming, and Deputy Prime Minister Mark Vaile MP. Doors opened to the public the following day.
20 years of milestones
Since opening, The Barrel has welcomed nearly 2 million guests – including Prime Ministers, Premiers, Governors, sporting legends, media personalities and celebrity chefs. The tourism centre has also featured in national broadcasts and prominent local events such as the Bundaberg Taste Festival.
Awards and achievements include:
- Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards (2022–2025)
- Best of Queensland Experience Awards (2020–2025)
Supporting the community
Over its two decades, The Barrel has boosted local tourism and supported the regional economy. Bundaberg Brewed Drinks proudly sources local ingredients including ginger, sugarcane, lemons and blood oranges to create the flavours that Australians know and love and uses Australian-made packaging from partners including Visy.
Proceeds from The Bundaberg Barrel’s glass stubby recycling program are donated to the Endeavour Foundation, helping to fund local facilities and community initiatives.
The people behind the brews
The Barrel’s story is shaped by the people who built, work in and visit, from the Fleming family to long-time team members and loyal guests. Plans are underway to share more of these stories, celebrating those who make The Barrel what it is today.
Looking ahead
The Bundaberg Barrel continues to put the region on the map alongside Mon Repos Turtle Centre, Bundaberg Rum Distillery and Lady Musgrave Island. With a focus on inclusive, sustainable travel and sharing the story of the iconic Bundaberg Ginger Beer, The Barrel blends tradition and innovation to remain one of Queensland’s must-visit attractions.
In celebration of 20 years, The Barrel is offering 20% off all in-store merchandise from November 18 to November 30, 2025 – so head on in, pick up some Ginger Beer-themed merchandise, and join in the festivities at the Bundaberg Barrel.