Bundy on a budget
Located about a 4 hour drive north of Brisbane (and just a short bypass off the Bruce Highway), Bundaberg is probably most famous for Bundy Rum and Bundy Brewed Drinks. It is also the jumping off point to both Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliott Islands, two of the southernmost islands on the Great Barrier Reef. Both islands are stunning spots for snorkelling or diving. But, what else can you do in Bundaberg (Bundy) if you have a couple of days to spare and a tight budget? Plenty!
Whether you like the beach, walking, history, nature or culinary delights, there is plenty on offer that won’t break the bank.
You will be spoilt for choice if you are a beach lover– especially in the Summer. The white sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, surfing, boogie-boarding, stand-up paddle boarding or fishing. The main beaches include Bargara, Kelly’s Beach, Burnett Heads, Elliott Heads and Moore Park – all within a 15-minute drive from the CBD. The magical sounds of the surf crashing on the beach provides the perfect background music to happy hour at the beachside caravan parks.
If snorkelling or diving is more your thing, you don’t have to go all the way to the Islands - although they are awesome spots. Head to Barolin Rocks at Innes Park to experience a taste of the reef. It is part of the Woongarra Marine Park at Innes Park and entry is directly from the rocky shore – it can be a bit slippery so be careful going in and out. More information on Barolin Rocks on the “My Favourite Escapes” blog page https://urls.grow.me/PdyPq9yRb.
If you just want to wet your snorkelling gear, check out the fish at the Basin (near Bargara). Surrounded by black volcanic rock, the salt-water pool is protected from the surf and is a safe swimming spot – perfect for kids. It’s also a great spot to keep cool and just bob around on a pool noodle with a sun shirt, sunnies and a big hat. Shade trees along the shore are perfect to stay out of the sun and enjoy the sea-breeze and views.
If you prefer to be more active, a bike-ride or a walk from Bargara to the Port takes you through the Mon Repos turtle sanctuary and is about 15 kilometres each way. The relatively easy ride takes you along the rocky headland with plenty of ‘instgrammable’ photo ops of mermaid-style rock pools and crashing waves. Visitors can wander around the turtle information centre and learn more about the Leatherback and Greenback turtles. (Note: there are fees for tours) Tip: Wear your bathers and stop for a swim at one of the beaches along the way – about half way is Oaks Beach at Burnett Heads with bathrooms, cold showers and BBQs.
For those keen to get their ‘steps up’, check out Sharon Gorge, a 15 minute drive north from Bundaberg on Gin Gin road. This is a designated nature park, so no dogs are allowed. The return walk through the gorge to the Burnett River is just over 1km so very ‘doable’ for most people. For caravanners and campers, you can stay overnight in the picnic area, but you must be fully self-contained. Still keen on walking – the Botanic Gardens is a great place to explore and incorporates the Hinkler Hall of Aviation which tells the story of Bert Hinkler, famous Australian aviator, born in Bundaberg in 1892.
Whether you are arriving in Bundaberg from the north (via Gin Gin) or south (via Childers), you can’t help but notice the expanse of macadamia trees. Once known for growing sugar-cane, many local farms have diversified to macadamias. A trip to Macadamias Australia will take you through the history of the industry. You can also enjoy a tasting and a macadamia-inspired meal at the café, Orchard Table. https://www.macadamiasaustralia.net/
Speaking of food, if you love ice-cream and who doesn’t, you will be in for a treat at Tinaberries – a working strawberry and macadamia farm where you can sit amongst the rich, red-soil gardens and enjoy freshly churned ice-cream and play yard games – checkers, pétanque or jenga. The family-friendly setting brings back memories of old-fashioned family picnics sitting on the freshly-mowed lawn. Still keen to try Bundaberg’s food scene?
Bundy Rum and Bundy Brewed Drinks may be the first brands you think of when visiting Bundaberg but if you are looking for something different, drop in to the Ohana Cider House and Winery. (Note: Unfortunately, Ohana Cidery House & Winery has since closed down) Enjoy a tasting paddle of crisp ciders and tropical wines (mango and strawberry Moscato) along with a mouth-watering, freshly made pizza with oozing, stretchy mozzarella cheese. It will be hard to leave without a bottle of the strawberry Moscato to share at your next happy hour. https://www.ohanawinery.com.au/
If you want to take a break from eating and drinking, check out the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre where they have a regular line-up of live events as well as free monthly community movies during the day. Shows change all the time so check their website. https://www.artsbundaberg.com.au/theatre
I have only just scratched the surface of things to see and do (and eat and drink) so I would suggest a visit to the information centre to see what else takes your fancy in beautiful Bundy and surrounds. https://www.bundabergregion.org/visitor-information-centres
