Things to do in Bundaberg

Festivals & Fairs

Bundaberg Gemfair

Sat, 7 Nov, 9:00 am AEST

Bundaberg · Free admission

Bundaberg Gemfair is a 2-day event. They have over 50 traders from around Australia and local, selling all things for the Lapidary enthusiast. Stones, Gems, Crystals, Fossils and mineral specimens. Rough rocks for cutting and faceting material through to cut stones and beautiful jewellery. They have traders selling specialised tools and equipment so you can create your own beauties.

Live Music & Concerts

Ivan Aristeguieta - Ready to Mambo - Bundaberg

Fri, 13 Nov, 7:30 pm AEST

Bundaberg Central · From $32

Winner Best Comedy Weekly Award, Adelaide Fringe, multiple years. Most Outstanding Show Nominee, Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Australia's favourite Venezuelan is coming to Rockhampton with his hilarious, award-winning show about dancing through tough times, finding joy in chaos and shaking off worries to a Latino beat. In these uncertain times, when phones update faster than emotions, one thing is for sure, if not laughing, dancing is the answer, so why not do both with the happiest hombre in showbiz. Ivan Aristeguieta is ready to mambo. As seen on Have You Been Paying Attention?, Thank God You're Here and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Opening Night Gala. Critics have praised Ivan Aristeguieta's performances as consistently outstanding and highly recommended, with reviewers describing his wit, intelligence and humour as unmissable.

Business & Networking

Odoo Business Show Bundaberg

Tue, 17 Nov, 5:30 pm AEST

Bundaberg West · Free admission

This event is free! Registration required. Join in for an unmissable tech event to discover a more sustainable and scalable way to transform your business operations with Odoo. This evening session will be dedicated to experiencing firsthand how Odoo's scalable solutions can unify your business operations to save you time to dedicate to growing your business.

Classes & Workshops

Textured Art Paint and Sip by Paint Juicy in Bargara

Wed, 25 Nov, 1:00 pm AEST

Bargara · From $59

Paint Juicy hosts a textured art paint and sip session in Bargara, on the coast just east of Bundaberg in Queensland. Guests build a coastal summer scene in relief, working thick texture paste across the canvas with a palette knife rather than a brush, so the whitewater sits up off the surface in ridges that catch the light and cast their own shadows. A host artist guides the group through every stage, from blocking in the turquoise water to sculpting the final peaks. No art experience is needed. All materials including canvas, texture paste, paints, palette knives, easel and apron are supplied. This is the quieter end of the Paint Juicy range, with a background playlist at conversational volume rather than live vocals, and seats limited so everyone gets time with the host. The format suits anyone after a calmer way to spend a Wednesday than a standard lunch or drinks. Paint Juicy is a fully mobile paint and sip experience travelling across Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. The brand has hosted more than forty two thousand guests and has been recognised as a Best of Queensland Experience every year since 2022. Hosts are warm and encouraging, and the focus is on making something properly tactile to take home.

Classes & Workshops

70s and 80s Singalong Paint and Sip by Paint Juicy in Bargara

Wed, 25 Nov, 6:00 pm AEST

Bargara · From $59

Paint Juicy hosts a 1970s and 1980s singalong paint and sip session in Bargara near Bundaberg. Guests gather for an evening of guided painting set to 1970s and 1980s music, with a host artist leading the group through a step by step canvas while a curated playlist runs through the room. Painters sing along to the bangers, paint at their own pace and leave with a finished canvas worth keeping. No painting experience is needed. All materials including canvas, paints, easel, brushes and aprons are supplied. Natural breaks between layers give everyone time to grab a drink, take photos and catch their breath before the next singalong moment. The format suits adults after a more memorable night out than a standard dinner or drinks, and it is a popular pick for hens nights, birthdays and work groups. Paint Juicy is a fully mobile paint and sip experience travelling across Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. The brand has hosted more than forty two thousand guests and has won the Best of Queensland Experience award every year since 2022. Hosts are warm and entertaining, the soundtrack is properly curated and the focus is on real entertainment rather than silent painting.

Classes & Workshops

70s and 80s Singalong Paint and Sip by Paint Juicy in Elliott Heads

Fri, 27 Nov, 6:00 pm AEST

Elliott Heads · From $59

Paint Juicy hosts a 1970s and 1980s singalong paint and sip session in Elliott Heads near Bundaberg. Guests gather for an evening of guided painting set to 1970s and 1980s music, with a host artist leading the group through a step by step canvas while a curated playlist runs through the room. Painters sing along to the bangers, paint at their own pace and leave with a finished canvas worth keeping. No painting experience is needed. All materials including canvas, paints, easel, brushes and aprons are supplied. Natural breaks between layers give everyone time to grab a drink, take photos and catch their breath before the next singalong moment. The format suits adults after a more memorable night out than a standard dinner or drinks, and it is a popular pick for hens nights, birthdays and work groups. Paint Juicy is a fully mobile paint and sip experience travelling across Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. The brand has hosted more than forty two thousand guests and has won the Best of Queensland Experience award every year since 2022. Hosts are warm and entertaining, the soundtrack is properly curated and the focus is on real entertainment rather than silent painting.

Live Music & Concerts

Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks Show at Riverfeast Bundaberg

Sat, 12 Dec, 6:00 pm AEST

Bundaberg East · From $40

A live celebration of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks — performed by Starshine. Far from an average tribute act, Starshine delivers a polished, emotionally charged concert experience that honours the legendary catalogue while bringing a fresh sense of drama, passion and authenticity to every performance. From the haunting beauty of Rhiannon and Landslide to the irresistible grooves of Dreams, Go Your Own Way and The Chain, this is a show designed to transport audiences straight into Fleetwood Mac's golden era. Starshine is known for its high-impact performances, powerful vocals and immersive live energy, creating a shared experience between the band and the audience. It's not just about nostalgia — it's about capturing the feeling people remember when they first heard these songs, performed live in a room full of fellow fans singing and moving together. With sold-out shows, standing ovations and strong word-of-mouth wherever it travels, Starshine has built a reputation as one of Australia's most compelling live tribute experiences. Whether performing in theatres, clubs, RSL's or festival settings, Starshine promises an unforgettable night of music, memories and pure rock 'n' roll magic.

Image: TEQ

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bundaberg School of Arts

Bundaberg

You can't miss the Bundaberg School of Arts building on Bourbong Street with its striking pink façade and classical revival style. This two storey brick building is possibly the oldest building in Bundaberg still standing. Construction on the School of Arts building commenced on 2 June 1888 and the building was handed over to the School of Arts Trustees on 16th April 1889. The Trustees were mainly top dignitaries of Bundaberg and many of these dignitaries went on to become Mayors of Bundaberg. The substantial two storey rendered brick building is State Heritage listed and has strong associations with the community as a source of civic pride for well over a century. The building continues to serve the people of Bundaberg today by being available for hire for cultural and community purposes. The Bundaberg School of Arts is part of a network of similar institutions which sprang up in any town of consequence in Queensland during the 19th and early 20th centuries and were a measure of prosperity and progress. The scale and style of the building demonstrate the wealth and importance of Bundaberg as a sugar city during this period. The building is not in it's original condition as 1976 saw a partial reconstruction of the building funded by the National Estate's Grant and Bundaberg City Council.

Entertainment Venues

Moncrieff Entertainment Centre

Bundaberg

The Moncrieff Entertainment Centre features performing arts, theatre broadcasts and live entertainment, as well as on-demand, indie and art-house films and free community movies. The Moncrieff Entertainment Centre is named after 'Our Glad' Gladys Moncrieff, the world-famous musical star who was born in Bundaberg. Originally the Olympia Airdome, an open-air theatre built in 1920, it was enclosed as the Olympia Theatre in 1955; refurbished as the Crest Theatre in 1973, and reconstructed as the Moncrieff Theatre during 1985 to 1987. With the update of the venue's facade in October 2011, it seemed the perfect opportunity to undertake a name change. Moncrieff Entertainment Centre better describes the venue, as all forms of entertainment, including cinema, live theatre, concerts and conferencing are held there.

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery

Bundaberg Central

Bundaberg Regional Galleries are two vibrant gallery spaces dedicated to providing premier arts and cultural experiences in the Bundaberg region. Bundaberg Regional Galleries fosters the community’s creative capacity by providing art and culture opportunities, and creating a community that participates, engages and grows in the lifelong learning of the arts. Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery (1 Barolin Street) and Childers Arts Space (72 Chuchill Street) are located in the hearts of Bundaberg and Childers respectively, with easy access for visitors. Both gallery spaces boast a year-round program of local, touring and national art exhibitions, visiting artists, workshops, artist talks, educational programs, kids activities, guided tours, gift shop facilities, public outreach programs and much more. CHARTS shares the gallery space with the Palace Backpacker Memorial.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Old National Australia Bank Building

Bundaberg Central

Take a step back in time and admire the architecture from a different time at the former Commercial bank of Sydney building. This majestic building was completed in 1891 and is important in demonstrating the evolution of Bundaberg as a regional centre, as well as the evolution of the early competitive banking facilities in rural Queensland. Prior to 1872 there were no banking facilities in Bundaberg. There was a Customs House established on the banks of the Burnett River but the duties had to be paid in Maryborough. In April 1872 a rep from the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney arrived in Bundaberg to assess the viability of a bank in the town. He left town a day later promising to establish a branch in Bundaberg in the following months. The day after the CBC rep departed a rep from the Bank of NSW rode into Bundaberg from Maryborough to announce the branch was open for business. The Commercial Banking Company of Sydney opened in June 1872 but was forced to close their doors in October 1873 due to the Bank of NSW securing most of the banking business in town.

Entertainment Venues

Kate Victoria Creative Studio

Bundaberg Central

The Kate Victoria Creative Studio is a space to get in touch with your inner creativity during one of the painting workshops or classes. No painting experience is required, you will be guided through each step, all equipment is supplied and each person leaves with their own original creation. The studio is located on the corner of Bourbong & Maryborough Streets, in the centre of town, with lots of nearby parking and close to local restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. The Studio has everything you need to make your time there the best it can be! Just BYO drinks, some nibbles and yourself. There is a toilet located on the premises, a fridge / freezer with ice available to keep your drinks cold, drinking glasses, cold drinking water, a large platter table with assorted serving boards & bowls and a complimentary tea & coffee station.

Landmarks and Buildings

The Whaling Wall

Bundaberg

The Whaling Wall is a local landmark measuring six stories tall and is a fantastic marine-life wall mural on one of Bundaberg's highest buildings in the town centre. Celebrated marine artist Wyland has painted more than 100 Whaling walls spanning over three decades around the world as a tribute to ocean life, each serving as a powerful reminder of the beauty and importance of marine conservation. The Bundaberg Whaling Wall was the first in the southern hemisphere - the mural took a week and is one of his most acclaimed murals standing in the centre of the city. Because the mural would feature indigenous marine life, Wyland dived throughout the Southern Great Barrier Reef to better prepare for the art to come, including at Lady Elliot Island and Barolin Rocks. Upon completing the mural, the city hosted the artist in a lighting ceremony that over 5,000 people attended. "It was the warmest reception I have ever received" he says. "It seemed the entire community became involved in this project.

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bundaberg Library

Bundaberg

Bundaberg Regional Libraries offer a wide range of items for loan, including books, DVDs, CDs, magazines and eDownloads. Visitors can also become temporary members for a small fee, allowing them to borrow items while enjoying their stay in the Bundaberg Region. Free Wi-Fi and public computer access are available for both members and visitors, with bookings and conditions applying. Charging stations are also available, making it easy to top up your devices while you take a break. The library regularly hosts children's activities, technology workshops, author talks and community events throughout the year. For more information about locations, memberships and services, visit the Bundaberg Regional Libraries website.

Image: Paul Donaldson

Entertainment Venues

Alexandra Park, Playground and Zoo

Bundaberg Central

Nestled on the banks of the Burnett River on Quay Street, Alexandra Park offers a playground under the shade of large Fig Trees. The kids can play on the playground or run in the large open spaces. The Rotunda gives the park an old-time feel. Keep an eye out for locals participating in yoga lessons or walking/running along the Riverside Walk. Alexandra Park is also home to the region's Council operated zoo. The zoo was established in 1911 and is one of Queensland's oldest continuously running zoological facilities. Today, the zoo is home to a compact menagerie featuring exhibits with pint-size monkeys, dingoes, lizards, snakes, birds and more! It is accredited under the Zoo and Aquarium Australia's (ZAA) Five Domains Model which demonstrates a commitment to positive animal welfare. While you are there, keep an eye out as the zookeeper may just bring the dingoes out for their daily stroll through the park.... Accessibility information: Alexandra Park Zoo is strictly a pet-free zone (service animals excepted). The public toilets include men's disabled RH transfer and a ladies disabled LH transfer. The playground includes all abilities equipment including wheelchair friendly carousel and basket swing.

Landmarks and Buildings

MV Karma Shipwreck

Bundaberg

Christmas came early to divers in the Bundaberg area in December 2003, when a 42 metre long gravel barge sank off the coast north of the city. That ship was the MV Karma and today it rests in 26 metres of water and is one of the best wreck dives in Queensland. The barge offers plenty to explore, from its huge cargo hold and towering crane boom to the two-level bridge, cabins and engine room. But it's the marine life that really steals the show. Schools of trevally, barracuda, snapper and batfish swarm around the wreck, while reef fish can be found in every corner. The MV Karma is also home to an impressive cast of residents, including gropers, stingrays, wobbegongs, sea snakes, turtles, moray eels, octopus and nudibranchs. Whether you're there for the wreck itself or the abundance of marine life, this underwater attraction delivers plenty of reasons to keep coming back.

Image: Cha Cha Chocolate

Shopping and Markets

Cha Cha Chocolate

Bundaberg Central

Get ready for a sweet experience at Cha Cha Chocolate. Melanice is a passionate owner that is dedicated to small business. Cha Cha Chocolate opened its doors in October 2017, it was intended to be a temporary "pop-up shop" for eight weeks over Christmas. However, within days, Melanice knew she had stumbled upon something extraordinary. Fast forward six years and it's now bustling with daily local support and visitors flocking from Australia and beyond. Imagine sinking your teeth into a Polly Waffle again, or enjoying a chunk of Gourmet Rocky Road with fresh handmade marshmallows & crunchy peanuts. It's a delightful journey back in time which many experience stepping into the shop from Main Street. What brings the greatest joy to Melanice is witnessing the sheer delight on customers' faces as they step into The Chocolate Shop for the first time. Their eyes widen with surprise, their smiles light up the room, and their spirits are uplifted as they embark on a magical chocolate walk down memory lane. But the magic doesn't stop there, the shop transforms with the changing seasons, and there's an extra magic in the air during Easter and Christmas. Months in advance, Melanice plans and orders the finest Chocolates from all over the world anticipating their arrival months down the track.

Parks and Gardens

Lions Park, North Bundaberg

Bundaberg North

Situated beneath the iconic Burnett Bridge, this riverside park and playground is the perfect spot to cast a line while keeping the kids entertained. With a playground, open green spaces and plenty of room to spread out, it's an easy place to spend a relaxed afternoon by the water. Pack a picnic basket or grab takeaway from a nearby café and settle in for a laid-back lunch. Travelling with your four-legged mate? The Edina Street off-leash dog park is just a short stroll away in Bundaberg North. Whether you're fishing, playing or simply enjoying the river views, it's a great little spot to slow down and soak up the tranquillity.

Image: TEQ

Natural Attractions

Riverside Parklands and Playground

Bundaberg

Set in the heart of Bundaberg and perched on the banks of the Burnett River, Riverside Parklands is a favourite place to slow down and enjoy the waterfront. With plenty of casual seating, open green spaces and river views, it's the perfect spot for a stroll, a picnic, casting a line or simply watching the river roll by. Enjoy a barbeque at one of the park's picnic tables as you take in a picturesque view or try one of the nearby cafes and restaurants. The boardwalk takes you down to the river's edge linking you with pathways that continue to Alexandra Park and the zoo. There is exercise equipment, a small playground near the picnic tables, barbeques and toilet facilities available.