The global success of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks is set to continue as the business’s new super brewery opens its doors.
The new facility will allow for increased production of the brand’s iconic ginger beer and other soft drinks, further ensuring the company’s growth for many years to come.
The $152.4 million facility took two years to construct and includes an innovation centre, large storage and cold room facilities, a laboratory as well as manufacturing and processing equipment.
The project supported more than 850 jobs during construction and has created more than 600 ongoing jobs in the region, ensuring production stays in Bundaberg.
Dignitaries including Bundaberg Mayor Jack Dempsey and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the opening on Tuesday, along with founder Cliff Fleming and chief executive John McLean and their family.
Mr Albanese said the multimillion-dollar facility was fantastic for the local economy.
“I’m not sure there’s a more Australian way to cool down in summer than ripping off the top of a Bundaberg Ginger beer,” he said.
“But this isn’t just about supporting an iconic Australian brand – it’s an investment of $19 million from the Federal Government in jobs for the Wide Bay Burnett region.
“More than 850 jobs in the construction phase of the super brewery and more than 600 ongoing jobs in the region with this new facility which has an innovation centre, large storage and cold room facilities, a laboratory as well as manufacturing and processing equipment.”
Mayor Dempsey said the local family-owned and operated business had deep roots in the community and the new facility was a testament to their craftsmanship.
“Bundaberg's new brewed drinks facility isn't just about beverages – it's a carbonated catalyst for jobs, growth, and a thriving local economy,” he said.
“Not only has brewing drinks been a family passion for more than 50 years, but the drinks are also award-winning and have helped to carry the Bundaberg name around the globe.”
Assistant Minister Anthony Chisholm backing businesses like Bundaberg Brewed Drinks was integral when it came to strengthening local manufacturing.
“Bundaberg Brewed Drinks’ iconic ginger beer and other soft drinks are doing a roaring trade and are the perfect example of how investment in Queensland’s regional economy provides benefits that extend well beyond the Wide Bay Burnett region,” he said.
“In addition to ensuring production remains in Bundaberg, the new brewery will benefit local suppliers, farmers and other direct and indirect affiliates of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks.
“The super brewery will also support global market growth, while improving operational capabilities by increasing annual production.
“This is yet another demonstration of the Australian Government supporting transformational projects that unlock long-term economic growth and regional jobs.”
The Australian Government provided $19 million, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks provided $133.4 million and the Queensland Government provided $575,800 towards the super brewery.
My son in law worked for Saudi Aramco, for 7.5 years.You can imagine the excitement in my daughters voice when she found Bundy Bev as it is called there. She said said it was on the shelves at her local grocery store. Mum I felt like I had been give a big Bundy hug. Congratulations to the Flemming Family.
Well done, Can you still make the original horehound or root beer? It was great when I was young.
Love it! It looks amazing 🙂