Exploring Bundaberg

9 July 2018 - Exploring Bundaberg

Hinkler Hall of Aviation was stop one today.  This tells the story of Bert Hinkler, born and raised in Bundaberg, who became a pioneer in aviation.  He set world records for solo flight several times and served as a pilot in WW1.  The things that impressed me most were: 1) his ability to design, build and successfully fly a glider as a teenager based on his study of the ibis, and 2) that as well as being a pilot he was an aircraft mechanic, problem solver and designer.  The hall included flight simulators for three different types of aircraft: Sopwith Camel, De Haviland Puss Moth and F/A18.  They were each very different to fly.  The house Hinkler had lived in in England has been moved in its entirety and we also looked through this – very English – and watched a short documentary on its relocation. www.hinklerhallofaviation.com/

Stop number two was the Bundaberg Rum Distillery.  This involved a self-guided tour of the museum followed by a guided tour of the plant (unfortunately photography was not allowed on this).  It was a well-done tour, providing a wealth of information.  After the tour were tastings – Drew and I tried Solera (nice, but $180/bottle!), Small Batch Vintage Barrell (too flavoursome for me), Coffee and Chocolate Liqueur (nice with cream) and Salted Caramel Liqueur (my favourite, served with milk).
 https://www.bundabergrum.com.au/distillery

 Stop three was Bundaberg Brewing Company.  The tourist facilities were closed, however the tastings, of all fourteen different varieties, were open and great.  We went shopping! 

https://www.bundaberg.com

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Stop four was Hummock Lookout.  The Hummock is an extinct volcano, giving 360-degree views over the surrounding coastline and cane fields.  Last up was the Jayco dealership for a few spare parts.

10 July 2018

Today was simply a drive to home, sweet, home!