Home of Australia's most famous rum, Bundaberg is an essential place to visit for those wishing to get a taste of Australian culture and heritage. Only a four and a half hour drive north if you've chosen car rental Brisbane, Bundaberg is part of the Coral Coast and Country as it is where the Great Barrier Reef begins. Nestled on the banks of the Burnett River, Bundaberg offers an abundance of family fun, with a hint of relaxation and pleasure.

Living in this area for almost six years has given me a taste of all that is on offer, yet each time I visit I am still finding new and different things to do. I guess the first thing most people would want to do when they arrive is to find out how the Bundaberg Rum is made. The Rum Distillery is located in an easily accessible location, with the Bundaberg Barrel out the front making it hard to miss. Visitors can take guided tours of the distillery with free taste tests sure to please! Tours can also be taken of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, the home of Bundaberg Ginger Beer! This activity is sure to please the whole family and you will walk away with a broad understanding of one of Australia's most famous icons.

Driving back into the city centre of Bundaberg will take you through Bourbong Street. This is the main hub of the town and home to the newly designed fountain centrepiece. The fountain depicts another part of Bundaberg's livelihood, sugar cane and cane cutting. This monumental structure captures the heart of the town and symbolises the importance that local farming holds within the community.

The city of Bundaberg offers a wealth of cultural and historical activities that can be enjoyed by all. The Bundaberg Arts Centre hosts a vast variety of exhibitions, which allows you to enjoy many facets of local art, as well as nationally acclaimed artworks. Just around the corner is the Moncrieff Theatre, a traditional theatre that plays recently released movies, live stage shows and local theatre productions. The theatre allows you to experience a true theatre experience in comfort and style. Bundaberg is also host to an annual Multicultural Festival, which is held in late august. Get a taste of different cultures, while taking in the stunning river views!

Visit the local Botanical Gardens and you will find the dwelling of Australia's Aviation pioneer, Bert Hinkler. Take a tour of Hinkler House and the Hinkler House Memorial Museum, and take a step back in time while you discover some of the original machinery that was used in Australia's first aviation attempts. Venture out into the gardens and explore the native flora and fauna that give these gardens their natural beauty. Take the kids on the vintage steam train, which circles the entirety of the gardens while you sit back, relax and let the kids squirm with excitement and joy. Fairymead House and the Japanese Garden are also focal points, so be sure to check these out too!

Just a short drive east of Bundaberg brings you to the seaside township of Bargara. Nestled between Neilson's and Kelly's Beaches, this settlement has a modern and fresh atmosphere, which makes it an enjoyable day out for all. Dine at one of the alfresco cafes, sophisticated restaurant's or get some fish and chips to eat right on the beachfront. Spend the afternoon frolicking in the clear, refreshing water, catch up on a spot of fishing or simply relax while watching the waves crashing down on the sand and the windsurfers take on the wild sea breezes.

Heading back into town, be sure to endeavour down the road to Mon Repos. Mon Repos is home to the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern Australian mainland. If you are lucky enough, you may get a glimpse of some of these magnificent creatures and if visiting between November and March, you can actually witness the turtles coming up to the beach to lay their eggs. Having experienced this amazing sight before, I can guarantee that if you are lucky enough to do the same, you will never forget it!

Right near Mon Repos you will find Bundaberg's only hill, The Hummock. A prehistoric (and inactive) volcano, which encompasses several lookout points, gives you 360 degree views of Bundaberg and surrounding areas. From the stunning coastline to the endless cane fields, the beauty stretches for miles and the very sight will stay with you forever!

The never-ending activities that Bundaberg has to offer, allow you to enjoy a vast range of different experiences that are sure to satisfy even the most difficult to please. A gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Bundaberg encompasses a delightful blend of coast and country and is ideal for that driving holiday you have been longing to take!

Christine Barton