What is Bundaberg Rum?
Bundaberg Rum is an Australian rum produced in Bundaberg, Queensland, since 1888. Known as Bundy, it is made from molasses left over from the region's sugar industry and is famous for its polar bear mascot.
The distillery was established to use excess molasses from local sugar mills. It has produced rum for more than a century and is one of Australia's best-known spirits.
Bundaberg Rum is often mixed with cola, a combination known as Bundy and Coke. Pre-mixed cans are popular in Australia.
The polar bear
The brand's polar bear mascot was introduced in 1961. It is said to represent the drink's ability to warm you up on a cold night, a joke given Queensland's warm climate.
The distillery runs tours and has a visitor center with a museum and tasting room. Visitors can see the molasses well and learn about the rum-making process.
Bundaberg Rum is now owned by the international drinks company Diageo. It sponsors sport, especially rugby league and rugby union, and has a strong following in Queensland.
The town of Bundaberg is also known for Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, maker of ginger beer.