Bonza day for Bundy

It’s a Bonza day for Bundaberg’s tourism industry as new direct flights from Melbourne (Tullamarine) get wheels up. In what is perfect timing for Victorians to catch some winter sun, the new route will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays with fares starting from $89 per person (one way).

Today’s milestone is part of the largest route roll out in Australia’s aviation history as Bonza continues to get wheels up on 27 routes to 17 destinations. Tomorrow, Bonza launches flights from Melbourne to Gladstone and on 23 May, Melbourne to Mackay will complete the initial roll out.

“The purple party continues today as we welcome Bundy to the Bonza route map. We are seeing strong demand for this route in both directions as Victorians seek out winter warmth and to experience the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef. It’s also a chance for Melbournian foodies to tour Bundy’s iconic distillery, food and drink producers and indulge in fresh local seafood,” said Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza.

Jordan said demand from Bundy locals to catch a low-cost flight to Melbourne was also high: “There are a lot of Bundy locals who are flying to see friends and family in Victoria or to enjoy a city break taking in Melbourne’s famous laneway cafes, shopping and galleries.”

Onboard the historic flight was Melbourne Victory Football Club’s Captain Josh Brillante who hails from Bundy. He took the opportunity to celebrate the inaugural flight by flying in for a reunion with his family. Earlier this year, Bonza surprised Brillante with a pre-match get together with his parents who can now fly direct to catch more games.

Today also marks the launch of Victory Draught onboard Bonza’s all Aussie menu. The beer is a partnership between Melbourne Victory and Local Brewing Co. Bonza customers are now able to enjoy the brew whilst watching a four-part documentary series titled ‘Dream Big’ on the Fly Bonza app’s in-flight entertainment.

“As Principal Partners of Melbourne Victory Football Club, we are pleased to welcome Josh onboard our first flight to his hometown. Bundy locals travelling with us to Melbourne can get into holiday mode onboard with Victory Draught added to our on-demand menu,” added Jordan.

Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey said the arrival of Bonza’s first Melbourne to Bundaberg flight was welcomed by local residents, the tourism industry and southern travellers.

“It’s Bonza that Bundaberg is getting direct services to Melbourne, and I urge everyone to get on board and take to the skies to support them,” said Mayor Dempsey.

“It’s a great result for locals to have increased travel options to enjoy top-flight sports and cultural experiences and visit loved ones, while our tourism industry will have access to a massive new market.

“Bundaberg offers the quintessential Aussie experience from iconic beverages to bush heritage, turtles, pristine beaches and the southern Great Barrier Reef.

“Now, many more Victorians can get a taste of the incredible lifestyle we have to offer.”

In Melbourne ready to greet the first arrival from Bundaberg is Melbourne Airport’s Chief of Aviation Jim Parashos.

“We are excited to have Bonza providing direct connections from Melbourne to so many new destinations, particularly as we head into winter and Victorians start to look for warmer weather!,” said Parashos.

“As the nation’s capital of sport, food and culture there are plenty of reasons to visit Melbourne too, and we suspect it won't just be soccer fans taking advantage of this new service to head south.”

Travellers are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app which is the only place to book direct.