Big Rum Bottle

In 1988, Brisbane hosted World Expo 88, a six-month celebration of technology and leisure that attracted nearly 18 million visitors. Bundaberg Distilling Company constructed this 7-metre tall rum bottle as their exhibition pavilion, proudly displaying their iconic dark rum to the world. After the Expo concluded, rather than discard this impressive structure, the company relocated it to their distillery in Bundaberg East where it has stood ever since. The distillery itself has a much longer history - Bundaberg Rum has been produced here since 1888, making 2013 its 125th anniversary. The visitor experience was transformed in August 2016 with the opening of a new $8.5 million visitor centre featuring an interactive museum and enhanced tour facilities. In 2009, as part of Queensland's Q150 celebrations, the Bundaberg Rum Distillery was recognized as one of the Q150 Icons of Queensland for its significance as a cultural location.

More Fun Facts

• •The Big Bundy was built for World Expo 88 in Brisbane, which attracted 18 million visitors
• •Standing 7 metres tall, it could theoretically hold thousands of litres of rum
• •The distillery holds 75,000 litres of rum in oak vats, some from the 1970s
• •You can blend your own rum during a distillery tour
• •Bundaberg Rum Distillery is one of the Q150 Icons of Queensland (2009)
• •The visitor centre received an $8.5 million upgrade in 2016
• •There's also a Big Bundy bottle at The Sundowner Hotel in Haigslea, QLD

Visiting Tips

• 💡Get a selfie with the big bundy bottle out front - and with the bear!
• 💡Book the distillery tour to learn the history and blend your own rum
• 💡The museum is interactive and great for adults interested in spirits
• 💡Bundaberg is 4 hours north of Brisbane on the Bruce Highway
• 💡Bus route 4 goes to Princess Street, about 10 minutes walk away
• 💡Coach and large vehicle parking available
• 💡The Bundaberg region also has the Big Barrel nearby