BundabergBrewedDrinks

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks’ (BBD) new integrated headquarters is a cutting edge facility for Bundaberg and represents a significant advancement in home grown family operated manufacturing and production for Queensland’s Wide Bay Region. It encompasses brewing, warehousing, offices, and logistics, all designed with future growth in mind.

The project, completed in August 2023, was executed in two stages, starting with an early contractor involvement (ECI) process in 2018. Despite COVID-19 delays and weather challenges, the project met critical deadlines, and facilitated the installation of highly complex brewery and production line equipment. The collaborative effort between Hutchies, BBD, and subcontractors, managed through regular meetings and project management tools, ensured the project's success and bolstered Bundaberg's economic and industry standing.

Hutchies showcased innovation in specific areas throughout the project which started during the design phase. The team coordinated the integration of production equipment, including the installation of large structural steel pipework gantries. Realising the initial installation plan was impractical, Hutchies proposed constructing and installing the gantries before completing the roof, streamlining the process, and enhancing safety.

For the Production Hall, instead of standard steel wall framing and roofing, fire resistant PIR panels were used, expediting construction, and providing clean linings. This method was extended to the Brewery, simplifying future expansions while maintaining secure operations. More solutions included adaptable air conditioning ductwork and structural elements for easy expansion, demonstrating Hutchies’ forward thinking approach to construction.

The project presented several challenges, including the need for expansive, ultra flat concrete floors for future automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and extensive ceramic tiling with precise gradients for equipment drainage. Coordinating brewery drainage with the positioning of heavy brew tanks, which are up to 8 meters tall and weigh over 80 tons, was crucial. These tanks required the installation of high strength ceramic tiles to endure the immense point loads. Accessible suspended ceiling and accessible gantries were also custom made for BBD. Managing substantial roof water runoff with limited gradients to a detention pond was challenging, as was the installation of a sizable inground wastewater tank.

The workmanship displayed in the project is of exceptional quality, showcasing the successful construction of vast areas of ultra flat post tensioned concrete floors and brewery spaces with high hygiene standards. The precision installation of stainless steel drainage systems and hexagonal high strength ceramic tiles from Germany speaks to the meticulous attention to detail. The office foyer features a custom made curved staircase and a unique ‘bottle wall’ showcasing BBD’s products, both prefabricated offsite to exacting standards for seamless integration. The craftsmanship extends to timber joinery, custom furniture, artworks based on historical artifacts, and thematic wall graphics that pay homage to local agriculture, BBD’s heritage and company milestones. The office’s design incorporates corporate colours, zoned carpeting, and curated photography, all reflecting the storied legacy of this iconic Queensland business.

2024 MBA Wide Bay Burnett Project of the Year

2024 MBA Wide Bay Burnett Commercial / Industrial Buildings over $50 million Award

2024 MBA Wide Bay Burnett Commercial Fitout over $10 million Award